When it comes to choosing siding for your home, fiber cement is often considered a top contender. Known for its durability and aesthetic flexibility, fiber cement siding has both its advocates and detractors. In this blog, we’ll explore the pros and cons of fiber cement siding and compare it to another robust option—steel siding—to help you make an informed decision on the best siding material for your home.
The Pros and Cons of Cement Siding
Pros of Fiber Cement Siding
- Fire Resistant: Safety is a crucial aspect of home materials, and fiber cement delivers by being non-combustible. Its fire-resistant properties can provide peace of mind, potentially reducing fire insurance premiums.
- Aesthetic Versatility: Available in a range of styles and textures, fiber cement can mimic the look of more traditional sidings such as wood and stone. This makes it a versatile choice for various architectural styles.
- Termite and Rot Resistant: Unlike wood siding, fiber cement does not succumb to the damage caused by termites or rot, which helps maintain its integrity over time.
Cons of Fiber Cement Siding
- Upfront Cost: One of the more considerable drawbacks of fiber cement siding is the initial cost. It is generally more expensive than options like vinyl siding, both in terms of materials and installation.
- Maintenance: While marketed as low maintenance, fiber cement siding does require periodic painting or staining to preserve its appearance and longevity, which can add to the total long-term cost.
- Installation Complexity: Installing fiber cement siding is not a DIY-friendly project. Due to its weight and the specific tools required, professional installation is recommended, which can add to the overall cost.
- Environmental Concerns: Although it contains eco-friendly materials like sand and cellulose fiber (which is hazardous to cut), the production process of fiber cement siding is energy-intensive and generates CO2, raising concerns about its environmental footprint.
- Durability: While fiber cement board siding is marketed for its strength and longevity, cracking happens frequently.
Why Steel Siding Could Be a Better Alternative
While fiber cement siding holds many advantages, steel siding often emerges as the superior choice for protecting your home, especially when considering long-term benefits and overall value.
- Enhanced Durability: Steel siding provides exceptional durability and is built to last. It effectively resists the elements, including hail and severe storms, and unlike fiber cement, it doesn’t require repainting or staining, saving both time and money.
- Lower Maintenance: Steel siding offers a truly low-maintenance solution. Its color is baked on, which prevents fading and wear over time, and it only needs a simple cleaning with mild soap and water periodically.
- Eco-Friendly: Steel siding is 100% recyclable, making it an environmentally sustainable choice. Its production is less energy-intensive compared to fiber cement, and its long lifespan reduces the need for replacement.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Although the initial cost may be comparable to fiber cement, the minimal maintenance and longer lifespan of steel siding mean lower lifetime costs, making it a more cost-effective option in the long run.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the right siding material is crucial for protecting your home and enhancing its curb appeal. While fiber cement siding offers a range of benefits including durability and fire resistance, when you weigh fiber cement board siding’s pros and cons, it comes with higher maintenance and environmental costs. On the other hand, steel siding, with its superior durability, lower maintenance needs, and environmental benefits, presents a compelling alternative that could provide better value and ease of ownership.
When evaluating your siding options, consider not just the upfront costs but also the long-term implications and benefits. Whether you prioritize aesthetic flexibility, eco-friendliness, or durability, understanding the pros and cons of each siding type, including fiber cement and steel, will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your home’s needs and your personal preferences.
