Your home's siding is designed to protect the interior of your house from the elements, acting as both a physical and insulative barrier against temperature, water, and anything else mother nature can throw at it. There are many different types of siding available on the market, one of which is cement siding. Due to cement's distinctive material qualities, siding that is made out of cement carries a unique set of characteristics. Understanding what cement siding can offer your home can help you make an informed decision about whether or not it is the right fit for your needs.
Advantages of Cement Siding
Low Maintenance: The main advantage of cement siding is the fact that it is relatively low maintenance, and does not require specialized cleaning beyond a power washing every few months to remove stuck on dirt and debris.
Physical Durability: Another advantage of cement siding is the fact that it is extremely resistant to physical damage, and can withstand the pressures of weather exposure very well without cracking and exposing the interior of your home.
Fire and Mold Resistance: In a similar vein to the above point, cement siding is extremely resistant to fire damage, which can help slow down the spread of a fire in the unfortunate event that a house fire does occur. Further, cement is also extremely resistant to mold and mildew growth due to its non-absorbent qualities, which means you don't have to worry about discoloration over time.
Customization Options: Finally, while cement may carry the image of being a monochrome gray material, it can actually be installed with a variety of different colors, textures, and designs, allowing a multitude of different design options to the exterior of your home. Cement siding can even be made to mimic the appearance of stucco, brick and natural stone siding.
Disadvantages of Cement Siding
High Material Cost: However, cement siding comes with a relatively high price tag, which can make it a poor choice for homeowners looking for a budget option for the exterior of their home. While this is somewhat offset by the long lifespan and low maintenance associated with cement siding, this is still something to consider.
Installation Costs: Further, cement siding panels are extremely heavy and unwieldy, and requires professional installation and specialized tools. This can significantly extend the length of your installation process, and can also drive up the costs associated with cement siding.
For more information, check out websites such as http://www.skerlec.com.