How Will Your Fiber Cement Siding Be Installed?
The process of installing fiber cement siding is very similar to vinyl siding. Other than the extra weight of fiber cement siding, the process is generally straightforward. When correctly installed, fiber cement siding products such as HardiePlank® are extremely durable and easy to maintain. You can expect fiber cement to last up to 50 years or more with proper care.
The Installation Process
1. Prep Work
The prep work typically involves placing a house wrap on your home, sheathing exterior walls with plywood, foam, or oriented strand board (OSB).
2. Cutting Siding
Next, the siding contractor will cut or score and snap the fiber cement to the required length.
3. Installing Trim
It's important to place the trim before installing your fiber cement siding. Typically, the trim is installed on the outside and inside corners of the wall first, making the corners thicker than two stacked siding pieces to allow room for caulking.
4. Fastening Siding
Typically, fiber cement siding is nailed by hand or using a pneumatic nailer. Alternatively, it can be fastened using corrosion-resistant screws. If nails are used, they need to penetrate through the sheathing and go at least one inch into the studs. Blind nailing is often preferable to face nailing because the next row of siding covers any nail heads.
5. Finishing
You should paint regular fiber cement siding as soon as possible after the installation. However, factory-primed FCS can last as long as six months with no need for painting.
Benefits of Fiber Cement Over Vinyl Siding
Fiber cement is a durable product that mimics stone or wood. It's environmentally friendly and seamless to clean and maintain. Besides, it accommodates painting and staining, unlike vinyl siding. Other benefits of fiber cement siding include:
- Durable and can withstand adverse weather conditions
- Strong, fire-resistant, waterproof, and pest and insect resistant
- It offers an extended lifespan and comes with 30 to 50 years warranties
- It has a long-lasting color of up to 50 years with regular care
- Environmentally friendly
Fiber cement siding is undoubtedly durable, weatherproof, and easy to maintain. If you plan to replace your siding in Southeastern Massachusetts, Cape Cod, and Rhode Island, you can count on Couto Construction to deliver exceptional installation. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!