Siding Installation and Repair
Fibre cement siding is a composite material made from Portland cement, sand, and cellulose fibre. It mimics the look of wood, stucco, or masonry while offering durability that organic materials can't match.
Durability is fibre cement's primary selling point. It resists moisture, insects, fire, and impact better than wood or vinyl. Manufacturers commonly offer 30-50 year warranties on the product itself.
Material Selection Guide
Painting is required. Unlike vinyl, fibre cement siding must be painted. Factory-primed products need a finish coat; pre-painted products have factory-applied coatings. Repainting is required every 10-15 years depending on product and conditions.
Weight is a consideration. Fibre cement is significantly heavier than vinyl — approximately 10 lbs per square foot versus 1-2 lbs for vinyl. This affects freight costs, installation labour, and in some cases structural load considerations.
What the Installation Process Looks Like
Installation requires specific techniques. Fibre cement must be cut with specialized blades (fibre cement blades or scored and snapped) to control silica dust. NIOSH-approved respiratory protection is required during cutting.
Clearance from grade and horizontal surfaces is important. Fibre cement must be installed with specified clearance from the ground, decks, and other horizontal surfaces to prevent moisture wicking.
For Ontario homeowners weighing siding options, fibre cement sits between vinyl (lower cost, easier maintenance) and wood (natural material, higher maintenance) in both cost and maintenance commitment. It's a premium choice that performs well over decades.