Maintenance for your fiber cement siding
Feb 23, 2017
Fiber cement siding is a great choice for lasting curb appeal for your home. To protect your investment, you need to do some simple maintenance.
- Remove dirt and debris by washing the exterior surfaces every 6 to 12 months. Use a garden hose or low pressure water spray, not a pressure washer. For James Hardie fiber cement siding with ColorPlus® Technology, you can scrub stubborn stains with a mild detergent and soft brush (no metal bristles).
- Clean your gutters and downspouts, removing any debris that could cause water to back up into your home. Your siding should have a water resistive barrier (WRB) and air barrier, to prevent water seepage and air leaks, but maximize your protection by cleaning your gutters at least twice a year.
- Check the caulking and re-apply as needed, so that moisture does not leak into the wall cavity behind the fiber cement siding. James Hardie recommends caulking that is clearly marked as “permanently flexible”.
- Maintain drainage slopes and at least a six-inch, external ground clearance around the foundation, below the siding.
- Trim shrubs, bushes, and small trees that are close to your home. This step helps to prevent the sprinklers from saturating the areas around your home’s structure.
- When patching chips, dents, and minor surface damage, use only patching compound that is recommended by the manufacturer.
- Never allow de-icing salt to come in contact with your fiber cement siding. Use sand or gravel instead.
If you’re thinking about re-siding your home and you live in the Kansas City area, talk to us at Johnson County Siding & Window Company. We can show you the many options for giving your home a beautiful, lasting, and low maintenance with new siding.
