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| | | Made from cement, wood fiber (cellulose), sand and other components, fiber cement siding can be manufactured to have the realistic appearance of wood, stucco or masonry. Promoted as environmentally friendly because it requires fewer trees, fiber cement siding won't burn, never rots, extends the life of a paint job and usually is warranted for 50 years. This is a relatively new product that's gained in popularity in recent years. Its main drawback is that it's heavy to lift, needs specialized cutting tools and installation is often a dusty process. | | |
| Typical costs: | - Fiber cement siding comes in a range of styles and grades of quality. Construction industry estimates for having it installed range from $4.50 -$9 a square foot, or $5,600 -$11,250 for 1,250 exterior square feet. However, a nationwide survey by RemodelingOnline.com pegs the average cost for an upscale project completely replacing 1,250 square feet of existing siding with high-quality fiber cement at $12,864 -$13,539, or $10 -$11 a square foot. (This slightly higher estimate may be a result of using top-quality materials plus including the costs for removing and disposing of the old siding).
- Do-it-yourself materials (including goggles and dust masks) run about $1,200 -$2,000 for 1,250 square feet, plus $200 -$500 for specialized cutting tools (either power shears, which create very little dust, or a dust-collecting circular saw with a fiber cement blade).
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| What should be included: | - A high-temperature pressurized-steam curing process used during the manufacturing of fiber cement siding makes this product exceptionally strong and stable. However, fiber cement siding is more difficult to cut than real or engineered wood. Installers must use special equipment to cut it, and must wear masks and goggles as protection against harmful dust. Plus, fiber cement siding weighs about 1.5 times as much as wood siding. If installed correctly, fiber cement siding is more durable than wood, vinyl and aluminum, and the only maintenance required is occasional power-washing. However, incorrect installation can cause moisture problems, including mold and rot in the sheathing or structural supports. The Portland Cement Association provides an overview.
- HammerZone.com gives step-by-step do-it-yourself instructions, and ThisOldHouse.com provides a how-to video.
- Before getting quotes or buying materials, check with the local planning department to see if there are any local regulations governing types of siding, especially if the neighborhood is in a historic district or overseen by a homeowners association.
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| Additional costs: | - If a home's existing exterior walls haven't been properly maintained, there could be water or weather damage requiring additional carpentry or other repair costs. The amount will depend on the extent of the damage.
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| Discounts: | - Find nearby neighbors who also want fiber cement siding installed, and negotiate a reduced price for multiple projects in the same area. Price estimates may be lower during the off-season, when contractors are often looking for work.
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| Shopping for fiber cement siding: | - Major manufacturers include James Hardie, Certainteed, Cemplank and Nichiha. Contractor referrals are available from the manufacturers. It's important to choose someone with experience installing fiber cement siding.
- Get several estimates, making sure what is (and isn't) in each quote; understand whether all prep and clean-up work is included. Request and check references. Ask to see a completed project; joints should be neat and evenly caulked. Ask about the contractor's length and type of experience. Be sure the contractor is properly bonded, insured and licensed in your state. Check for any complaints with the Better Business Bureau.
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Article updated July 2007 |
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