Spotlight on Siding, Part 2: How Long Does Cement Siding Last?

by Legacy Exteriors Siding

Cement Siding Lifespan Siding Contractors In Madison WIWelcome back to our spotlight on siding series where we’re taking a look at the five most popular types of residential siding.

In Part 1, we focused on vinyl siding, and in this installment of the series we’re shifting our attention to cement siding, also referred to as cement board siding.

Let’s quickly define what cement board siding is before we dive into its average lifespan. We’ll also touch upon factors that influence pricing, plus the top pros and cons of cement siding …

WHAT IS CEMENT BOARD SIDING MADE OF?

This type of siding is a long-lasting, extremely durable siding material made from a blend of cement, sand, water and fiberglass matting. A great alternative to brick or stone, it has the ability to withstand the severe weather conditions we experience here in Wisconsin.

CEMENT BOARD SIDING LIFESPAN

Cement siding typically has a lifespan range of 50 to 100 years. As you’ll see below, there are many key factors that contribute to this lifespan, including the quality of materials used, as well as the proficiency of your siding contractor’s installation team.

A note on warranties …
That said, one thing to keep in mind when choosing a cement siding brand for your home is the warranty. For instance, James Hardie cement siding and trim products have a 30-year, non-prorated limited warranty. This includes a Lifetime Limited Transferable Warranty covering materials and labor. And their ColorPlus® Technology finishes come with a 15-year Limited Warranty that covers paint and labor, protecting against peeling, cracking, and chipping. It’s the best warranty in the business.

Factors that contribute to this wide lifespan range include:

Cement Siding Company Madison WI QualityThe Quality of the Cement Board Siding Solution

Like most products, there are different levels of quality when it comes to cement board siding — so be sure not to make your choice on price alone. Spending less now, only to pay more later for repairs or upkeep, can actually cost you more in the long run. This is why it’s so important to ask your potential siding contractor questions before signing on the dotted line. From warranties, to product specs, a reputable contractor will have top-quality options available to install — and they will be happy to answer as many questions as you have so you can feel confident that you’re making the right choice when it comes to the quality of your new siding.

Also, keep in mind that cement boards are available in different thicknesses and densities (medium to high), and both of these factors affect the lifespan of the product.

Cement Siding Installation Company Madison WIThe Quality of the Installation

Who installs your cement siding (or any siding for that matter) is just as important as the product you choose. That said, look for LOCAL siding contractors that are reputable within the Madison, WI, community, and who are committed to ongoing professional training.

You’ll also want to choose a contractor that is a licensed siding installer who is insured for all of the work they do. The last thing a homeowner needs is a poorly installed siding solution, or to have their warranty voided because of a negligent or uninsured contractor.

Madison Siding Contractors Weather and Cement SidingClimate & Weather

Although cement board siding is created to withstand extreme weather conditions, harsher and more wet climates may require more maintenance as compared to more mild, dry regions. In other words, especially in Wisconsin, staying on top of upkeep can help extend the life of your siding.

That said, James Hardie cement siding is incredibly heat resistant, and can withstand temperatures as high as 200-250 degrees fahrenheit. It also resists damage from ice, snow and freezing temps.

Color Plus Cement Siding Contractors in Madison WIFactory Finish (Pre-finished)

Products with factory-applied finishes (like James Hardie’s ColorPlus® Technology) offer superior durability, often warrantied for 15 years against flaking or peeling.

There are other brands that have a factory finish, too, so you don’t have to choose James Hardie as your solution. What’s important is that you actively question the products being proposed to ensure you are receiving a product that has similar traits to what we’re describing here. A factory finish isn’t something every contractor will bring up — especially if they don’t install products with this benefit.

Cement Siding Contractors in Madison WI MaintenanceMaintenance

Typically, maintenance is the least favorite topic of homeowners, and choosing a quality brand will require less maintenance. But at some point some maintenance will likely be necessary, and if it’s handled in a timely manner, it can extend the life of your siding.

Maintenance tips: In most cases, we recommend inspecting caulking and seals annually, and also considering washing once or twice a year.

Also, about once a year, or after a bad storm, a simple walk around to check for damage is a good idea. If you find damage, repair it ASAP.

That all said, if you don’t want to do the repairs or cleaning yourself, you can find a reputable residential exterior cleaner or siding repair contractor to do the work for you.

Siding Company Madison WI Cost of Cement SidingCOST RANGE

Here are some pricing averages, as of this writing, in Wisconsin for cement board siding:

  • Cost per sq. ft. is typically between $7 and $18 installed, and this covers materials, labor & finishing.
  • Approximate total (installed) cost of cement siding for a home, based on size:
    • 1,000 sq. ft. home ranges between $7,000 to $18,000
    • 1,500 sq. ft. home ranges between $10,500 to $27,000
    • 2,000 sq. ft. home ranges from $14,000 to $36,000
    • 2,500 sq. ft. home ranges from $17,500 to $45,000

Siding Contractors Madison WI Cement Siding Pros

CEMENT SIDING PROS

  • Amazing Durability
    Cement siding can withstand extreme high or low temperatures, UV rays, moisture, snow, ice, and high winds.
  • Fire-resistant
    Non-combustible, cement board siding has a Class A (or Class 1) fire rating.
  • Pest Resistant
    Unlike wood siding, cement siding does not attract — and won’t be infiltrated by — termites, carpenter ants, and the like.
  • Low Maintenance
    Cement board siding is extremely low maintenance. And if you choose a pre-finished color from a manufacturer, which is baked onto the boards, even less maintenance is required.A little more detail on maintenance:

    • For pre-primed cement board siding, cleaning and painting approximately every decade is typically required.
    • For pre-finished cement board siding, like James Hardie’s ColorPlus Technology, no painting is required.
    • In both cases, a simple cleaning with the use of a garden hose along with a soft brush/cloth, is all that’s needed to remove dirt and grime.
  • An impressive ROI
    When compared to other siding materials like vinyl or wood, cement board siding delivers a higher ROI when selling your home. That said, if you are selling soon, we recommend talking with your realtor and your siding company to determine if this type of siding replacement will yield enough positive equity in the current market in your region.

Siding Company Madison Cement Siding ConsCEMENT SIDING CONS

  1. It’s More Expensive in the Short Term
    There’s a higher up-front cost associated with this type of siding. That said, if it’s in your budget you may find that, long-term, it’s a more economical choice since it typically lasts longer than other siding materials.
  2. In Wisconsin, it Most Likely Needs Additional Insulation
    The R-value of cement siding is often lower than other materials. For example, the R-value (insulating ability) of James Hardie siding is approximately 0.15 – 0.5, as compared to insulated vinyl siding, which is approximately 2.0-3.5. What this means is that you’ll want to talk with your contractor to ensure there’s enough insulation behind your siding to keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
  3. It’s a More Labor-Intensive Install
    Being heavier than other siding options, cement board siding requires more finesse and skill to install as it’s harder to handle. In addition, specialized tools are necessary for cuts. This typically increases installation time and cost.
  4. It’s Less Environmentally Friendly
    Cement board siding is typically not environmentally friendly, although some companies have manufacturing waste programs that reuse cellulose fibers, sand and cement. That said, cement siding is not recyclable.

Get In Touch

If you have questions, or would like to schedule a complimentary siding inspection, feel free to contact us anytime. We’re always happy to stop by and talk siding!

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