How To Maintain Your Fiber Cement Siding

When you choose to install fiber cement siding, you're choosing a product that can last a long time. However, to get the most out of this kind of siding, regular maintenance is not only recommended, but necessary. Understanding the intricacies of fiber cement siding – such as what it’s constructed from and how to take care of it – can help you to ensure that you get a full 50 years out of it.

What Is Fiber Cement

Fiber cement is a highly durable, low maintenance product that does not break easily. It is exactly what the name says: cement mixed with natural fibers to reinforce it. In creating fiber cement, a special curing process is utilized to make it far more durable than many other materials. It also makes it incredibly resistant to moisture. This type of siding is excellent against intense weather events such as major thunderstorms and hail, as well as fire, bugs, and rot. There are numerous ways to ensure that you get the most out of your fiber cement siding, starting with an excellent moisture barrier.

Ensure Your Moisture Barrier Is Working

Although fiber cement siding is resistant to moisture, it can be essential to certify that no leaks occur. The use of a quality sealant can be the difference between well-maintained fiber cement siding and mold, condensation build-up, warping, or other forms of water damage. Using a silicone-based caulk is a common form of sealant used on this kind of siding. You will want to check that your sealant is fully intact – not cracking, breaking, peeling, and other gaps. If you notice any of these problems, resealing is the best option to prevent damage.

Take Care of Your Gutters

Gutter maintenance is an indirect, but necessary way to protect your siding. Clogs in your gutters mean that the water will not be exiting the way it should. Instead, it can overflow and run directly down your home’s siding. Even with a proper moisture barrier, excess water can wear it down faster. It is a good idea to ensure that your gutters are clean a couple of times a year, at least during the spring and fall. Also, be sure to check them for rust and other damages that need fixing, including your downspout.

Pressure Washers Are Great For Cleaning

If your manufacturer recommends it, rent a pressure washer every summer for a good fiber cement siding cleaning. If you are concerned about damaging the siding's finish, you can also use a water hose and a simple cleaner to remove dirt from the top down. Regular cleaning on your siding will prevent any mold or mildew from building up and damaging your paint, siding, and even your home’s walls.

Paint Every 5 to 15 Years

This last recommendation is low on any homeowners to-do list, but painting your siding as needed is crucial to protecting it. With high-quality paint, you can ensure that it will last as long as possible. Superior paint can also act as a moisture barrier and experience less fading over time. Some paints can even prevent mold and mildew. By investing in quality paint for your siding, you can guarantee longer life for the paint and the siding.

Contact Us Today

If you're ready to install new fiber cement siding on your home this winter, our team at Erdmann Exteriors is here to help! You can reach out to us today by calling us at (847) 357-9607 or by filling out our team's online contact form. We look forward to hearing from you and assisting with your siding installation needs!