Looking to install new siding on your HOA or multi-family property? Your mind may first go to vinyl siding, but have you considered fiber cement? It has many benefits over vinyl siding and can be a great choice for multi-home properties. This type of exterior maintenance project can add years of life to your property while looking good and ensuring its energy efficiency.
Fiber cement may cost more than vinyl siding in the beginning, but that initial outlay of capital pays off more over the long term. Here’s how.
What is Fiber Cement?
First, what exactly is fiber cement? This is a mixture of sand, water, Portland cement, and wood fiber or pulp. When mixed together, the water dissolves the fibers, activating the cement and helping it harden. The result is a durable material that is molded into varying textures. The wood pulp ensures the planks’ flexibility, while the sand gives it its signature texture. The cement is the binding agent.
This slurry is placed into molds to form planks, which are then dried. And this is how fiber cement boards are born.
Reasons to Install Fiber Cement Siding
Check out these reasons why you should install fiber cement siding on your property.
1. High ROI
According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2021 Cost vs. Value Report, fiber cement siding has a recouped cost of 70 percent. With such a solid return on investment, it makes financial sense to install fiber cement because you will likely see that money come back to you if you decide to sell in the future.
2. Minimal Maintenance
Fiber cement siding requires very little ongoing maintenance or repainting. You can repaint it later if you decide to switch up the look of your property, which you can’t do with vinyl. Vinyl siding locks you into a color scheme and décor that is very difficult to change later.
3. Resists Damage
Your property will be protected from the elements and insects with fiber cement siding. Not only does it resist damage from woodpeckers and other critters, it is resistant to rot. It also provides more protection from mold and mildew. In addition, fiber cement siding is basically inflammable, and won’t succumb to direct flames or extreme heat. The non-combustible properties of fiber cement siding is a wise choice for a property manager who has to worry about the cooking and lifestyle habits of several different tenants at once.
4. Durability
Fiber cement siding is durable, thanks to its strength and composite nature, resulting in a long lifespan backed by industry-leading warranties. Your fiber cement siding will likely last your lifetime and never need replacing for as long as you own the property. It won’t warp like vinyl will, and it resists fading from UV rays due to the fact that the color is baked on.
5. Insulation
Because fiber cement siding is denser and thicker than other siding types, it’s a better insulator, preventing air from escaping and ensuring a higher energy efficiency for all your units.
6. Beauty
Fiber cement mimics the look of wood, available in a variety of textures and styles. The boards come pre-painted and you can choose the texture and style you want, from a horizontal plank look to shakes to board and batten.
With so many advantages over other types of siding, it’s a no-brainer to choose fiber cement siding to ensure your home improvement dollar goes further.
Contact Allstar Construction and Maintenance
Looking to install, repair or maintain fiber cement siding for your multi-family property or HOA? Please contact us at 952-942-7454 to get a free quote on our exterior maintenance services.
