Fiber-cement siding is a worthy alternative to traditional siding. It has all of the same qualities as other types of siding but also offers additional protection from water damage. This isn’t an issue in all places, but for homeowners in wet areas, like along the Gulf Coast, water damage to siding is a real threat.
Since fiber-cement siding is affordable, you won’t break the bank if you decide to switch from other types of siding. What’s more, fiber-cement comes in a wide variety of colors and styles to match your home. Here’s how fiber-cement siding can help protect your home.
What Causes Water Damage to Siding
Significant rainfall can lead to numerous siding issues. But even in drier regions, sprinklers and shrubs too close to homes create excess moisture that damages siding over time.
Common causes include:
- Overdriven nails that compromise integrity
- Poorly sealed joints that allow moisture ingress
- Too little clearance between siding and ground
- Insufficient eave overhangs
I often see failures with the ubiquitous hardboard siding, which is vulnerable when incorrectly installed. Eventually, rainwater soaks in, causing mildew, rot, and soft spots homeowners may not notice until too late. For water damage beyond siding, read our restoration pricing guide and get a quote from top-rated restoration companies.
Replacing Damaged Siding Sections
The good news is that damage usually occurs in two areas: the first three courses of siding (2 feet or so above ground) and unprotected wood-framed chimneys or chases. Properly installed siding not subjected to rain is usually fine.
Contractors replace damaged hardboard with fiber-cement siding, sometimes also addressing framing issues. But typically, the original building paper or housewrap prevents deeper damage.
The fiber cement wood-grain pattern matches the existing hardboard well, although less than real wood siding. With two coats of acrylic latex over a primer, repairs blend in seamlessly.
Benefits of Fiber-Cement Siding
Fiber-cement siding contains cement, sand, cellulose, and additives. It comes in smooth and wood-grain textures.
Benefits include:
- Resists moisture, rot, and pests
- Installs nearer ground than hardboard
- Holds paint longer than wood
- Costs less than hardboard in many regions
- Outlasts hardboard between repainting
So, Is Replacing Damaged Siding Worth It?
Spot siding replacement restores home appearance at a fraction of the full residing cost. In most cases, damage is concentrated in the most vulnerable areas, while the balance of the original siding remains sound. Using resilient fiber-cement siding ensures long-lasting repairs that protect home integrity. The affordability and durability of fiber-cement siding makes targeted repairs a wise investment.
FAQs About Replacing Damaged Siding
How can I prevent future siding damage after repairs?
Inspect all original siding and fix issues to stem future problems, extend downspouts to divert water away from foundations, and add gutters and downspouts.
Should I do DIY siding repairs?
Avoid DIY siding repairs or replacements unless you’re highly skilled. Licensed, insured contractors have specialized tools, materials, and experience to blend repairs seamlessly into existing siding.
How does fiber cement differ from vinyl siding?
Fiber-cement melds wood fibers and cement into a realistically textured, durable material ideal for repairs. Vinyl is an affordable plastic prone to dents and bending over time.
What indicates I need siding repairs?
Watch for soft spots, mildew, bubbling/cracking paint, rotting wood, interior leaks, and visible moisture damage. Quickly fix problems before they compound — even small leaks warrant repair.