Is Fiber Cement Siding Energy Efficient? A Comprehensive Analysis

Fiber cement siding is a viable, long-lasting alternative to traditional siding materials like wood, aluminum, and vinyl. But, is fiber cement siding energy efficient? It offers many advantages, such as additional energy efficiency and less maintenance. Unfortunately, many homeowners don’t realize installing fiber cement siding could be the ideal remedy to fight the ever-increasing cost of heating and cooling.

As heating, cooling, and electricity prices continue to spike, California homeowners need a permanent remedy, not just a temporary fix, to offset this expense. The struggle to identify the right solution requires creative thinking and effective problem-solving. No answer is perfect. However, modifying a home (with new siding, roofing, or windows) can work wonders.

Heating and cooling account for between 50 to 70% of energy consumption for the typical homeowner. Subpar construction products (including inadequate siding) contribute to energy waste in the average home. Consequently, homeowners pay hundreds (if not thousands) of dollars in additional and unnecessary expenses to maintain their indoor temperature.

What Is Fiber Cement Siding?

Fiber cement siding is comprised of sand, cement, and cellulose fibers woven to produce a durable, long-lasting product. It provides a practical, low-maintenance solution for homeowners needing an attractive material that maximizes energy efficiency. In the 1980s, fiber cement siding’s popularity rose as a safe and effective alternative to asbestos-based cement siding.

Today, James Hardie remains the leading manufacturer of fiber cement siding. As an authorized installer of James Hardie siding products, Straight Line Roofing & Construction proudly stands behind this superior solution to siding challenges. James Hardie Fiber Cement Siding mimics the look and feel of other siding materials but is more fire-resistant and weatherproof.

Understanding The Energy Efficiency Benefits Of Fiber Cement Siding

With reasonable care and maintenance, fiber cement siding provides 50 or more years of life before requiring replacement. It is the long-term, energy-efficient siding solution for homeowners requiring an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional options.

As the leading manufacturer of fiber cement siding, James Hardie incorporates properties that offer superior insulation and enhanced thermal performance. Because it won’t warp or rot, this siding alternative remains robust and energy-efficient for its duration.

Average Life Expectancy of Siding Materials Chart

One significant advantage of installing fiber cement siding is that it diminishes heat transfer between the exterior and interior of your home. Its composition prevents outside weather conditions from adversely affecting your home’s comfort level, so you won’t need to worry about a drafty or stuffy indoor environment.

Many siding materials lack insulation. In some instances, they may have a thin layer of built-in insulation. In other cases, they might have “modest” naturally insulating properties. Fiber cement siding offers excellent year-round insulation. Consequently, it helps keep a home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

Many fiber cement siding finishes deliver reflective qualities that keep the sun’s UV rays from penetrating through the outer surface into the home. In warmer months, this benefit keeps your indoor spaces cooler, reducing your dependence on air conditioning. Other types of siding do not possess these reflective properties.

Fiber cementing siding can be designed to mimic the look and feel of wood. However, unlike wood siding, fiber cement does not absorb moisture from rainwater, snowmelt, or humidity. In this respect, it won’t deteriorate due to weathering. Instead, fiber cement siding remains robust and unchanging.

Comparing Fiber Cement Siding With Other Alternatives

Image of before & after new siding on a home.

Longevity matters when considering which siding option provides the best energy efficiency. Fiber cement offers homeowners an extended lifespan that doubles or triples the average life expectancy of the most commonly used siding materials, including vinyl, aluminum, and wood.

Fiber cement siding has a reasonable R-value (measuring a siding material’s insulation quality). Although it may not have as high of an R-value as vinyl siding, fiber cement is more durable and less prone to damage. Unlike vinyl siding, it won’t require replacement as frequently and won’t experience a reduction in energy efficiency over time. Fiber cement siding remains sturdy and energy-efficient throughout its lifespan.

Because fiber cement siding offers maximum protection from fire (and other outside elements), it ensures occupant safety. The aesthetic appeal of fiber cement siding means that a home’s property value remains consistent and predictable. It will continue to look attractive for future homebuyers long after other siding options age, deteriorate, or show excess wear and tear.

Hiring An Expert Installer Of Fiber Cement Siding

Straight Line Roofing & Construction is the siding expert in Sacramento, Cameron Park, and beyond throughout Northern California’s Central Valley. As this region’s premier siding contractor, we also offer exceptional home services in roofing, windows, solar energy, and gutters. Trust Straight Line to deliver the highest quality craftsmanship and construction products for your home.