What Is Fiber Cement Siding?
When it comes to your home’s exterior, siding does more than just shield it from the elements—it sets the tone for your home’s entire aesthetic. It’s the first thing people notice, and it plays a key role in shaping their first impression. That’s why choosing the right material matters. Fiber cement siding is a standout option that offers both visual appeal and lasting performance. It delivers a polished, timeless look while reflecting the quality and durability built into your home from the ground up.
Made from a mix of cement, sand, and cellulose fiber, fiber cement is a material built to endure. It’s heavier than vinyl, less fussy than natural wood, and surprisingly adaptable in style making it a good option for new siding on a house. Lap boards, vertical panels, even shingles—fiber cement can take on many forms, depending on the home it wraps around. And it does all this while standing up to the kind of wear that would unravel lesser materials.
The Benefits of Fiber Cement Siding
Durability That Goes Beyond the Surface
It’s no secret that Michigan’s seasons can be extreme. The wind cuts sideways, pulling up loose panels, while allowing moisture to creep into seams. But despite the elements, fiber cement doesn’t warp, rot, or swell, and instead holds its shape, color, and security year after year.
A Natural Defense Against Pests
Natural wood siding can be irresistible to carpenter ants and termites. Fiber cement is naturally resistant to pests so you can rest easy knowing your home is safe from destructive critters.
Fire Doesn’t Scare It
Fiber cement won’t ignite or melt–a priceless quality in critical moments when every second counts. While fire resistance may not be the primary you choose it, it’s a benefit you’ll never regret having.
Low Maintenance, Long Memory
A coat of paint on fiber cement siding will last for years, far longer than on natural wood. And aside from a rinse now and then to keep things looking clean, that’s most of what is required for upkeep. It’s a low maintenance material that continues to do its job in the background.
The Trade-Offs (Because Every Good Material Has Them)
It’s More Expensive Up Front
Fiber cement siding typically ranges from $5 to $14 per square foot, installed. While it may not be the most affordable option upfront, it’s far from a short-term solution. Unlike vinyl, which may require replacement or repairs within 10 to 15 years, fiber cement is built to last—often exceeding 30 years with minimal maintenance. Over time, it proves its value not only through long-term cost savings, but also through the lasting peace of mind. Check out our siding cost calculator to determine how much fiber cement siding would cost for your home.
Installation Isn’t for Amateurs
It’s heavy. It needs special tools. It takes skill. This isn’t a weekend project, and it shouldn’t be treated like one. Proper installation matters—a lot. Which is where we come in.
How Much Does Fiber Cement Siding Really Cost?
On most homes, full installation ranges from $13,000 to $30,000, depending on the size, style, brand, and complexity of the job. But the actual cost is shaped by how well the work is done.
Suitable materials in the wrong hands won’t perform. A skilled team, one that respects the material and understands the demands of the job, makes all the difference.
Why Choose J&S Siding
We’ve been working with fiber cement siding for decades. We know how it behaves in a midwestern winter, how to install it with the precision it requires, and how to help homeowners make design choices that endure. Our crews don’t just install siding, they build exteriors that are meant to last.
This is work that deserves craft. And that’s what we bring.
Ready to Build Something That Lasts?
Let’s talk. Schedule a free consultation, and we’ll walk you through what fiber cement siding could mean for your home—not just how it looks, but how it lives.
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