Siding installation is a big job whether you are doing it yourself or having a professional do the job. It is now possible to install almost any kind of siding by yourself – although the help of some good friends would be beneficial. Fiber cement siding is gaining popularity. It is more expensive than vinyl or aluminum, but less than wood. Many feel that it has an upscale feel to it, is low maintenance and flame resistant – and possible to install on your own, which decreases the expense significantly. Here are some important things to remember when doing a fiber cement siding installation:
First and foremost always wear the appropriate safety gear. The necessary gear for the steps in a fiber cement siding installation include, safety glasses, ear protection, and a NIOSH dust mask or respirator.
Inspect the siding carefully for damage. It would be a pain to return it, but it would be worse to have to start over, or redo the job sooner than you should. Keep it dry and off the ground until you’re ready to install it.
There’s a significant amount of prep work that needs to be completed. All walls need to be sheathed with an approved material and then covered in house wrap or felt paper. Mark the studs with chalk.
Fiber cement shears are recommended for cutting siding – regular electric shears can be converted with an attachment. However, there are other tools that will work just fine.
The siding can be attached with either nails or corrosion resistant screws. Whatever you choose the nails should should penetrate at least 1 in in to the studs and 3/4 to 1 in from the edge of the siding.
Make sure to read the manufacturers recommendations for appropriate gaps between surfaces such as decks, steps, roofs, doors etc. and the siding.
Center joints over studs.
These are some key points to remember, when doing a fiber cement siding installation but obviously there is a lot more information. Before you begin make sure that you’ve read through all the instructions in detail. The siding will come with instructions from the manufacturer, but you can also find many step by step instructions online from experienced contractors.
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