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What is "fiber-cement" siding? |
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Fiber-cement is a calcium-silicate material that is evenly
dispersed with reinforcing fibers. |
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How is Cemplank made? |
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At Cemplank, we mix sand, cement and cellulose fibers
with water, and then use a Hatschek machine to make the actual plank, panel
and trim products. The products are then autoclaved so that all of Cemplank's
siding products are cured before they are shipped. |
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Why is fiber-cement good? |
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Cemplank siding materials have incredible dimensional
stability through a wide range of temperature changes. The cementitious composition is by definition
impervious to insects and has been independently tested to have a "0" flame
spread index and a "0" smoke development number(please note that any finishing product may burn or cause smoke). All of these features
in a material that looks, feels, and installs like wood clapboards. |
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What tools are required to work with Cemplank siding
products? |
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Cemplank can easily be cut using traditional woodworking tools and practices. Power saw only with a Hardiblade or other blade specifically designed for fiber-cement dust reduction. Cutting should always be done in well-ventilated areas. When excessive dust may be of concern, dust collection devices and/or HEPA respirators should be used. For maximum dust reduction, fiber-cement shears are available. (See our published installation guidelines for further details and recommendations.) |
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How is Cemplank fastened to the house? |
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Similar to traditional cedar siding. Cemplank can be
blind or face nailed by hand or with a power nailer. Screws may also be
used. (See our published installation guidelines for further details and
recommendations.) |
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Must Cemplank be painted? |
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Yes, all exterior fiber-cement siding products must be
finished with a paint system or sealer. Cemplank, however, when finished
according to published recommendations, can hold its finish system 2-3
times longer than wood — greatly reducing the frequency of repeating. Cemplank
is available from the factory with Cemprime, a primer coat, which will
eliminate the need for this step. |
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Are Cemplank products "environmentally friendly?" |
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Cemplank is considered a "green" product, with no detrimental
affects on the environment, and its manufacture is extremely resource efficient
— recycling cut-offs back into the process. Also, Cemplank's long-expected life means your house will be sided once in your lifetime not two or three times. |
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Is the price of Cemplank competitive with other siding
products? |
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Absolutely. Cemplank is similar in cost to "middle to
premium" quality vinyl siding, and less than that of traditional cedar
siding. Also, Cemplank is much less than masonry products yet provides the
same protection against fire and smoke development. Of course prices will
vary according to geographic location and economic conditions. |
