Install Fiber-cement Siding: Don’t Paint Your House for 25 Years!

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Fiber-cement siding also can be face-nailed, which leaves exposed nail heads. But staples cannot be used because of the hardness of the material. Do not under-drive nails or screws.

Whatever system you choose, check the manufacturer’s recommendations for placement of fasteners (nails or screws) in relation to the ends and top edge of the plank. Consult wind tables provided by manufacturers for recommendations on fastener spacing, stud spacing and other factors for your area.

What to Watch Out For

Use a circular saw with a special blade that minimizes dust when cutting fiber-cement siding, such as Hitachi’s Hardiblade or Dewalt’s PCD Fiber-Cement Blade. You also may be able to cut these products with snapper shears or a guillotine-type cutter.

Cut these materials outdoors, in an area away from other people and pets. Anyone in the area should wear a dust mask whenever planks or other fiber-cement materials are being cut or sawn.

When applying new fiber-cement siding, consider installing additional insulation in the wall cavity or over the exterior sheathing. If you add rigid insulation over the exterior sheathing, you’ll have to build out the window and door trim as well.

Check local building codes to determine whether you need a permit to install new siding — and to be sure the job, as planned, meets the requirements. Local building codes may exempt fiber-cement siding from the usual requirement of a water-resistant layer between exterior sheathing and the siding, but it’s a good idea to install building paper. See “Weather-resistant Barrier Materials,” below, for some environmentally friendly options.

Weather-resistant Barrier Materials

A good house wrap underneath siding is an important component in green building because it “breathes,” allowing moisture vapor to escape to the outside. This prevents mold, which can cause health problems and damage to your home. In addition to Tyvek, check out Home Slicker by Benjamin Obdyke, Delta Reflex from Cosella Dorken Products, and Construction Film by Gempack (800-328-4556).

What Will it Cost?

Fiber-cement is more expensive than vinyl, but similar in price to wood — if you’re considering only the cost of materials. Fiber-cement products tend to be more costly to install because they require removal of the existing siding and more preparation. (Vinyl siding can often be placed over existing siding.) Cost is determined by several factors, such as whether the siding is pre-finished or painted on-site, the style of paint, type of siding and the size of your house.

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