Home Inspection Tips and Guidelines

Fiber-Cement Siding Inspection


Generally, a Fiber-Cement Siding Inspection will focus on checking whether the siding was properly installed and maintained. Fiber-cement siding consists of a mixture of cement, sand, cellulose fibers and other components such as water, resins and waxes. The material goes through a multi-step high-pressure curing process in which the mixture is pressed into a variety of siding patterns by means of highly pressurized steam. Fiber-cement siding is widely popular because it is fire resistant, does not rot, warp, or delaminate, it is resistant to termites and is normally manufactured into a much thicker and more durable product than vinyl siding.

Fiber-Cement Siding Inspection – Improper Installation

Fiber-cement siding installation is the main concern with this type of siding, because if it is not properly installed it can result in skewed trim, exposed nails, as well as cracked, chipped, loose or damaged sections. Any problems should be recorded during inspection and corrected as soon as possible.

Fiber-Cement Siding InspectionFiber-cement siding has several great advantages. As a material it looks great and is available in various colors and patterns, offering homeowners the opportunity to create an exquisite look for their homes’ exterior. Moreover, fiber cement is very solid, and the components involved allow it to withstand extreme weather conditions and bouts of intense humidity, an important advantage over other types of siding. The product is made to resemble wood, offering the same attractive wood without all the hassle such as rotting, warping, termites or other insect infestations.

When it comes to maintenance, fiber-cement siding requires some maintenance throughout the years, however not a lot. The material is good at holding paint, so paint chips, wear and tear are not a concern until after many years. In addition, fiber cement is considered a more “green” product than some other siding materials, making it an appealing options for those who seek environmentally-friendly products.

On the other hand, everything has a downside as well, so here are some of the disadvantages of fiber-cement siding. First of all, it is more expensive than vinyl and wood, and it has no insulating properties, so energy savings are out of the picture. Before making a decision, it is advisable to get all the facts from your contractor. Siding is a long-term investment, so take the time to consider the advantages and disadvantages of available types of siding to make an informed decision.

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