If you’re in the market for new siding, your first instinct may be to go with the traditional vinyl siding you had before and that all your neighbors seem to have. But fiber cement siding could be better suited to your needs.
Learn the answer to “What is cement fiber siding?” in this guide, then contact Nelson Contracting to discuss our siding repair and replacement services in Lincoln and Omaha, NE.
What Is Fiber Cement Siding Made of?
Fiber cement is a relatively new siding product that was first introduced about 25 years ago. Initially, this material was a common replacement for the previously popular asbestos siding. Now, fiber cement siding has become one of the highest-performing siding materials on the market.
Fiber cement consists of four main ingredients:
- Portland cement, which contains a mixture of limestone, iron, and clay
- Fly ash or silica sand as a filler
- Wood pulp to provide flexibility that allows the siding to expand and contract as needed
- Water to harden the cement and dissolve the wood pulp
Primary Features of Fiber Cement Siding
We recommend fiber cement as the superior alternative to vinyl siding due to its impressive durability, longevity, and attractiveness. This siding material:
- Can last on your home for up to 50 years
- Is fire resistant (unlike vinyl, which melts in extreme heat)
- Is insect-resistant, as it is not a viable home for termites and carpenter ants
Along with these functional benefits, high-quality fiber cement siding looks beautiful. This siding can instantly transform your curb appeal — and continue looking great for decades. If you want to elevate your house siding with a premium option, fiber cement siding should be at the top of your list.
Who Manufactures Fiber Cement Siding?
Many companies produce fiber cement siding. James Hardie is one of the biggest names in the fiber cement siding industry and will likely come up frequently during your research.
James Hardie has been manufacturing high-quality building materials since 1888 and was the first to produce and market high-performance fiber cement siding. This company offers beautiful, durable siding in a wide range of styles to match your desired aesthetic. Many options include a realistic wood grain appearance.
What is the Fiber Cement Siding Installation Process Like?
Not every siding contractor has the skills and experience to install fiber cement siding. This material is up to five times thicker than vinyl siding and weighs about 2.5 pounds per square inch. It’s significantly heavier and denser than other materials and requires specialized equipment and attention to detail to install properly.
Major fiber cement siding brands like James Hardie offer impressive warranties, but they become void if the siding was not installed correctly. We recommend choosing an experienced contractor to ensure that your fiber cement siding investment pays off.
What Is the Cost of Fiber Cement Siding?
Your exact costs will depend on the style you choose (shingles vs. planks) and the square footage of your home’s exterior, but you can generally expect fiber cement siding to cost around $5 to $15 per square foot uninstalled. In contrast, vinyl siding costs between $3 and $8 per square foot.
The best way to predict your costs is to schedule a quote with a siding contractor. Keep in mind that fiber cement siding can last decades longer than vinyl siding, so the increased price point will pay off over time.
Does Fiber Cement Siding Require Maintenance?
The most maintenance you’ll need to perform on fiber cement siding is power washing the surface every few years and updating the paint after about 15 years. This material isn’t susceptible to cracking, warping, or moisture damage like vinyl siding is.
Schedule a Siding Consultation with Nelson Contracting LLC
Our team at Nelson Contracting strongly recommends James Hardie as the premier fiber cement siding brand. Dozens of homeowners across Lincoln and Omaha have recently made the switch to fiber cement siding and are enjoying the benefits of this beautiful, durable, low-maintenance material.
Are you interested in learning more about your siding options? Our licensed and insured crew has 25+ years of experience installing fiber cement siding and a wide range of other siding materials, so we can answer your questions. Contact us today at 402-464-2418 to schedule a quote.
