Fiber Cement, Cement and Fiber Siding: Know the difference.

What do people mean when they talk about fiber siding? Typically this refers to fiber cement, a popular siding material, but there are other options as well. Here are the possibilities:

Fiber cement siding

Fiber cement siding is a widely recognized type of siding that is, as the name indicates, made from cellulose fibers, sand, water and other cement materials that are cast into the shape of siding boards. The result is siding that looks much like wood, can be painted any color and has incredible durability.

While often expensive, fiber cement siding makes up for it with its resistance qualities. The material is mostly fireproof, rated Class 1(A) in American fireproofing jargon and cannot be damaged by insects or rain. It does not rot, it is nearly impossible to crack, and it is not phased by drastic changes in temperature or humidity. UV radiation rarely bothers it, and it can last for more than 50 years.

Given all this, it’s no surprise that fiber siding like this is used in areas that received a lot of exposure to elements or endure sharp changes in temperature. It is also an ideal option if you want long lasting siding. One of the only downsides is that fiber cement siding is heavy and, because of the materials involved, a bit more difficult to install and replace than other types of lightweight siding.

Fiber siding

If you hear someone talking about “fiber” siding chances are good that they mean fiber cement siding. However, there’s also a possibility that they are talking about composite siding.

Composite siding is made from compressed wood fibers. The result of uniform boards factory produced to be durable and hardy, but lighter and easy to install than fiber cement. Coloring is typically achieved through dye instead of paint, so colors are not lost as easily over time. However composite boards are not fire resistant. They are also less resistant to termites and rot, which can be a problem if you live in an especially rainy area.

Composite siding is a very brand-based material. Production companies include LP SmartSide, Everlast and others.

Cement siding

Again, if you spot a reference to cement siding, it probably means fiber cement siding. However, there’s a chance that people are talking about concrete siding, which is another matter entirely.

Concrete siding can refer to using concrete for your entire house, a trend that is beginning to gain more popularity in America. While this can look like a very modern way of protecting the outside of your home, you may be surprised to know that with the right tile patterns and paint, the results can look very traditional as well.

Resistant to fire, insects and other problems, concrete can prove a durable option for your home. However, it is also very heavy and requires specialized installation techniques. You may not be able to replace your old siding with concrete: Typically, homes must be designed to include concrete siding.

For answers to all of your siding questions, contact Findlay Roofing. Our experts will know how to help.

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