Something’s Rotten in the Siding Market

When one hears the name fiber cement siding, the word “rot” is not one that instantly springs to mind.  One does not generally associate cement with rotting.  So why does fiber cement siding rot?

The truth is that rotting fiber cement is a misnomer, as the cement siding itself does not rot. What can happen, however, is that if siding is not properly installed by experts, water can seep behind the siding and deteriorate its integrity.

There are two ways to avoid this scenario.  First, a moisture-resistant layer needs to be applied to the wood before the siding is hung.  Secondly, and most importantly, siding should be applied by professionals, such as those at United Home Experts, who understand the harsh weather conditions here in the Northeast and take appropriate measures to insure against siding failure.

Another advantage to having experts side a home is the guarantee that comes with the job.  With the long-term guarantee that United Home Experts provides, a homeowner can sleep like a baby for many, many years, knowing that at least their siding is 100% guaranteed no matter what Mother Nature might do to their home.

If a homeowner chooses nonetheless to install fiber cement siding without the use of experts, two people should always be present during the installation due to the weight of the cement siding.  Thin siding material can be cut by scoring the siding with a sharp carpet knife or similar instrument and then snapping the siding along the score.  Heavier siding may require special saw blades designed to cut through the concrete and cellulose fibers of the boards.

Fiber cement siding is one of the best, most durable sidings available, especially for the unpredictable weather conditions in the Northeast.  Sun, wind, rain, snow, hail…fiber cement siding offers superior protection against all forms of weather, especially when properly installed. Another advantage to fiber cement siding is that it is either fire-resistant or completely fireproof, depending on its grade.

Homeowners have many choices when it comes to the right siding for their home.  The decision they make should be based on a number of factors, including location, aesthetics, cost, ease of application and how long the customer expects to remain in the home.  There may be other considerations as well.  But when everything is said and done, all homeowners want the same basic result  –  a home that looks its best and is well-protected, at a price that the homeowner can live with.