How Much Does Fiber Cement Siding Cost?
Last Updated: January 25, 2022
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Fiber cement siding (also known as cement board) is designed to imitate the look of natural wood, but is more durable and versatile than the real thing, making it an attractive wood alternative that provides excellent value. To learn more about cement fiber siding and how much it costs to install, continue reading.
Fiber Cement Siding: How it Works #
While versions of fiber cement have been in use for more than 100 years, the material as it known today has only been around since the 1980s. Prior to then, fiber cement often contained asbestos fibers for added strength.
Modern fiber cement siding is a mixture of cement, sand and cellulose fibers. These materials are bonded through a high-temperature steam curing process, resulting in exceptional strength. Cement fiber siding is made in layers, with the outermost surface bearing a wood grain imprint. It is available in horizontal boards, shingles, and sheets.
The strength of fiber cement does not come without a tradeoff, as it weighs almost twice as much as wood. Coupled with the fact that cutting it produces significant dust, installing fiber cement siding is more labor intensive, and improper installation can result in moisture problems. To avoid them, only work with experienced and qualified contractors.
The Benefits of Fiber Cement Siding #
Although not yet as popular as other wood alternatives such as vinyl and metal, fiber cement is becoming more and more popular for reasons that include the following:
- Durability: Cement fiber siding, when properly installed, doesn't warp, fade or buckle like vinyl siding, another popular wood alternative. And unlike metal siding fiber cement won't dent or rust. It also termite, water, and won't burn.
- Value: Fiber cement, in addition to costing less than real wood, is often backed by a warrantee of up to 50 years and requires less maintenance than wood over the years. Cement board also holds paint better than wood and may only need to be repainted every 15 years or so.
- Beauty: Available in a wide range of designs, finishes, and colors, cement fiber siding provides the natural beauty of wood without all of the hassles.
- Eco-Friendly: Compared to vinyl, which contains chemical components which can be harmful to humans and the environment, fiber cement is made from safe, non-toxic materials. The long life of fiber cement siding also contributes to its status as one of the most green building products available.
Fiber Cement Siding Average Costs #
The cost of fiber cement siding can vary considerably based on the local cost of labor and materials, the complexity of the installation, and other factors. As a result, the following costs should only be considered general estimate.
- Fiber cement siding installation generally costs $5 to $10 per square foot, although higher-end materials could cost $10 to $12 per square foot or more. Installed on a home with 1,500 exterior square feet, that's a total cost of around $7,500 to $15,000.
- Repainting fiber cement, required every decade-and-a-half or so, could cost $5,000 to $10,000 or more.
