How to Install Fiber Cement Siding

October 24, 2009

People that are careful in choosing a siding for their home are also just as careful in how they choose to install their siding. Professional installation can be very expensive and do-it-yourself homeowners often take the alternative route and choose to renovate their homes themselves.

The good news is - installing fiber cement siding is not as difficult as most would think. The installation is contingent on where an individual purchases their fiber cement siding from and manufactures don't vary too significantly. Overall an individual shouldn't have a difficult time when installing their siding.

Before a person begins to install their siding they must first take the necessary safety precautions like using protection for their ears, eyes, and nose. Cutting the siding and nailing things down can create dust particles in the air. A dust mask and safety glasses can help a person protect him or herself during installation. After a person is properly protected they should:

Sheath their walls with plywood, foam, or oriented strand board and then cover that sheathing with felt paper.

Cut the siding to the proper measurements that are in alignment with the house. A person may need several tools when cutting their fiber cement siding, including a circular saw, fiber cement shears, and a jig saw.

Next, they should nail the siding to the wall and fasten and attach it with corrosion resistant screws. When nailing, individuals should be especially careful to make sure they can see what they are doing so they don't injure themselves

Finally the last steps are installing the trim and then installing the siding

After the fiber cement siding is installed, an individual can choose to paint their siding with any color they desire.