Description
Fiber cement board siding, particularly in a 6mm thickness, is an excellent choice for both residential and commercial buildings due to its durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. Made from a mixture of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, this type of siding offers impressive resistance to harsh weather conditions, including moisture, fire, and pests, making it a long-lasting option. The 6mm thickness provides a balance between strength and ease of installation, ensuring that the boards are lightweight yet sturdy. Additionally, fiber cement board siding can be customized in various textures and colors to match different architectural styles, offering a seamless blend of functionality and design. Its low maintenance requirements and eco-friendly components further enhance its appeal, making it a smart investment for any property. All fiber cement board available at Ebuild Kenya
Cutting fiber cement sheeting:
Sheeting can be cut to size in three ways.
- Thinner sheets can be scored with a heavy-duty cutting blade and snapped
- Using a hand- or electric-powered “fibro cutter” (Australian term)
- A mechanical saw using a diamond blade (masonry blade) is needed to cut thicker and denser sheets
Installation of Fiber Cement Boards
When hanging fiber cement sheets, an approximately 5-millimetre (0.2 in) gap is required between end-joints (cladding seams), later to be filled with caulking made for fiber cement siding. Metal 150 mm × 150 mm (6 in × 6 in) step flashing is required behind overlapping seams to prevent sheathing damage from water. Hot-dipped galvanized roofing nails are used to secure the sheets.
Some caution must be exercised to properly ventilate areas where fiber cement siding (FCS) is being cut; long-term exposure to the silica dust generated during the installation process can cause silicosis.
Fiber cement cladding can be painted or stained before or after installation. For areas of exposure, weatherproof paint must be used. Once the product is fixed the joints are usually covered with timber battens and the entire wall surface is painted.
