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Fiber Cement Siding: Why It is Better
by Anita Guzman Marketing Analyst Making an exterior upgrade to real estate usually involves replacing siding or the roof. If you’ve been looking at siding materials, then, if you are like most people, you’re thinking about using a polyvinyl material. Not only is vinyl more affordable, it retains its appearance and is resistant to fading and chips or cracks. Another popular covering is fiber cement siding, which is used to cover both commercial and residential structures. Made of a composite of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, the siding often replicates the appearance of wood or weatherboard siding without the maintenance headaches. While the siding may look like wood, it won’t attract termites or warp from moisture as wood tends to do. One of the leading manufacturers of fiber cement siding is James Hardie. This well-known brand guarantees products that can resist the outside elements as well as such hazards as fire and water damage. The manufacturer offers sidings in several sizes and styles and matches the sheets with complementary soffits, trims, and fascia. Designed using ColorPlus™ technology, James Hardie siding is fade-resistant too. So, if you are looking for an attractive siding that is a low-maintenance product, you’ll want to consider fiber cement siding when you are making a selection for an exterior covering.A Sturdy Siding Material
When you look at fiber cement siding, it usually is presented in boards that overlap and run across a building horizontally. Typically, it will take on the appearance of wood siding or a clapboard-type look. The material is indeed sturdy enough as it is frequently used as an underlay for decks.
A Little Bit about the History
Fiber cement was originally produced in Austria in 1901, with the material patented by Ludwig Hatschek as “Eternit.” The term was a derivation of the Latin word, “aeternitas,” which means “everlasting.” In the 1980s, fiber cement started replacing asbestos cement sheeting, which proved to be harmful to one’s health.
How Asbestos Came to Be Used in Construction
Up until that time, asbestos was used in construction for its strength and resilience. However, the silicate minerals used in the product were found to be hazardous when inhaled over a prolonged period. Some of the diseases and conditions that result from asbestos use include lung cancer, asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. Unfortunately, the material’s ability to resist fire and damage from heat or chemicals was soon negated when it became a threat to people’s health.
Fiber Cement Today Meets with “Green” Standards and Objectives
While early sheets of fiber cement included asbestos materials, today’s green building standards and accredited testing makes it possible to offer fiber cement sidings that are completely free of any asbestos products, including such harmful products as formaldehyde.
Fiber Cement Comes in Varying Thicknesses
The thickness of fiber cement sheets can vary, with low-density materials featuring a rough border while higher density products display a smooth and cleaner edge when they are cut for use. Naturally, higher-density products resist the effects of sound and temperature better than their lower density counterparts.
A Preferred Product in the Australian Outback
Once fiber cement siding (FCS) is installed, you will have very few maintenance worries. Not only does the material resist impacts well, it will not deteriorate or fall prey to termites such as sidings made of wood. In fire-prone areas in Australia, James Hardie FCS is used as a substitute for boards and fascia made of timber materials.
Getting the Most for Your Money
Depending on your budget and the architectural style of your home, you can choose from FSC products as well as aluminum siding and products made of polyvinyl chloride or wood composites too. However, if you want to get the most value for your money, it’s best to choose FCS if you want to save on maintenance and lower your insurance costs.
About the Author: John Ferguson works as a construction manager and also writes a column on home remodeling. He recommends Somerville Aluminum Full Service Home Remodeling for your home renovation needs. Ask them about their selection of James Hardie siding products. Check out their website at www.somervillealuminum.com/ or give them a call, toll-free, at 1-800-346-3693.
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About Anita Guzman 
Marketing Analyst
1 connections, 0 recommendations, 14 honor points.Joined APSense since, May 28th, 2013, From kolkata, India.
Created on Dec 31st 1969 18:00. Viewed 0 times.
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