Fiber Cement Siding Installation
If you're a homeowner who's had extensive experience at "Do-It-Yourself Camp," you might be savvy enough to handle fiber cement siding installation yourself. Still, you should expect to need some extra hands to complete the job properly.
Fiber cement siding is made from a mixture of cement, sand and cellulose fibers. The cement that makes this siding extremely durable, also makes it much heavier than wood or vinyl siding. Installation requires at least two people to handle longer pieces.
Also, when fiber cement siding is cut, it produces a fine dust that can damage the lungs, if inhaled. Always wear the proper ventilation protection. Another thing to remember: Fiber cement siding can't be cut with a regular, wood-cutting saw blade. It requires a specially designed, diamond-tipped saw blade able to cut hard siding and control dust emissions. Mechanical shears are another option for sectioning siding.
If you do decide to tackle the job yourself, keep in mind these four tips:
- Always cut with the face down.
- Reseal cut edges with paint or primer to prevent water damage.
- Butt ends tightly together: Fiber cement siding does not expand like wood siding.
- Caulk wherever the siding meets trim pieces, as well as around doors and windows.
Installing fiber cement siding can improve insulation and appearance now, while adding value during resale in the future. Be sure you believe in the expertise of your carpentry skills before trying to tackle the job on your own. Professional siding installation that comes with a warranty often pays off with dividends down the road. Learn more about fiber cement siding by reading the articles in this section.
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