Five Reasons Siding Contractors Love Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement siding is quickly becoming the top choice for newly constructed homes as well as the favored choice of siding contractors who are updating homes formerly outfitted with wood, aluminum or vinyl. This durable material has moved to the top of the list for many home improvement companies when they are adding new curb appeal to existing homes for at least five reasons:

1. Realistic Appearance Of Fiber Cement Siding

While aluminum and then vinyl have been used for decades to echo the look of wood on the exterior of homes, neither of these were very good at echoing the rich appeal of naturalmaterials such as cedar. With fiber cement, however, homeowners can get the attractive look of wood grain without its many problems. It is crafted to capture the wonderful textural details of genuine wood, including the grain and tiny imperfections that give it personality and natural beauty. Contractors know that there is no other product on the market that looks so real.

2. It Doesn't Warp, Buckle Or Give In To Insects

Termites and other insects can burrow into wood and quickly turn it into pulp. Wood, vinyl and aluminum can buckle, peel or warp. Fiber cement doesn't do any of this. In fact, it's guaranteed to last for decades with minimal maintenance. Periodic power washing and an occasional coat of paint every ten years or so should be all it takes to keep it looking great. Contractors love installing a product that can stand up to nature and the elements because they know their customers will be thrilled with its durability and beauty long after the job is completed.

3. Lasts Longer And Takes Abuse

Although vinyl and wood can look lovely, neither one has the staying power or strength to stand up to the unexpected. Wood can splinter and vinyl can be dented easily when hit by a flying object such as a baseball or debris during a storm. Fiber cement can stand up to almost anything thrown at it without denting or splintering. While customers can't predict what kind of abuse the exterior of their home will have to stand up to, they can choose a material they won't have to worry about.

4. Professional Installation Ensures Quality

It's easy for homeowners to visit their local home improvement store and order a shipment of vinyl to install by themselves. Unfortunately, most of these weekend home improvement warriors don't realize that installing the material themselves will void the warranty, leaving them without protection if something damages their home's exterior down the road. Fiber cement, on the other hand, has to be installed by professional siding contractors who have been factory trained in order to ensure that the job is done properly. Professional installation means the warranty on the materials will be fully backed by the manufacturer and the installation is backed by the installation company.

5. It Pays For Itself

Although fiber cement siding may cost more up front than natural wood and most brands of vinyl, it quickly pays for itself because it lasts longer, needs less maintenance and remains beautiful for as long as fifty years. In most cases, it will have paid for itself in terms of less maintenance, increased curb appeal and superior protection and insulation in just a few years.

Talk to siding contractors in your area to learn more about fiber cement and its many advantages. You'll most likely agree with them that it is the best material available for updating your home's exterior.