Attaching Fiber Cement Siding

In many ways installing fiber cement siding is similar to installing wood siding but there are some differences that need to be addressed in order for it to be installed properly.

Attaching fiber cement siding.

Most types of vinyl fiber or cement fiber siding install after the trim is in place. Once cut to length minus the recommended wiggle room attach each trim piece by driving nails through it the house wrap and the sheathing and into wood framing. Flash above doors and windows leaving a gap between the flashing and siding. Fiber cement siding tolerances and gaps.

When installing fiber cement siding be sure to leave at least clear space between the siding and the flashing vertical siding should be installed and attached to the structural framing when a non structural sheathing gypsum board or foam type sheathing are used. Fiber cement siding should be installed 6 or more above the grade level of the house with a 1 2 gap between horizontal surfaces like decks steps or adjacent roofs. When installing fiber cement siding always leave a gap at the ends of each length of siding. Fiberboard cement siding looks identical to wood once it s painted.

A siding pro shows the tools and tricks needed for a weathertight installation. Fiber cement siding is pretty easy to work with mainly just measuring cutting and nailing it in place. If you re hanging fiber cement siding you ll typically use fiber cement trim from the same manufacturer on areas like inward and outward corners. Install flashing at all end joints where two pieces of siding butt together.

Insert siding nails every 16 inches into the furring strips but do not insert nails between the strips. When you want the classic. Siding installation starts at the bottom flush with the bottom of the sill plate and each successive siding strip installs above the previous one. Leave a small gap at butt joints and fill.

When you start just make sure the first row is level. Be sure the flashing overlaps the siding course below. Apply caulk to the joint before and after installing the siding.