Why Texans Are Choosing Fiber Cement Siding

• Fiber cement siding hits a reliable middle ground. It’s more durable than vinyl or wood, more affordable than metal, and holds up well to Texas heat, wind, rain, and pests.

• High-quality fiber cement siding can last around 30 years and hold its paint for 10 – 15 years.

Fiber cement siding isn’t new, but it’s become a go-to option for Texas homes in recent decades, especially as more homeowners look for siding that holds up without constant maintenance needs. In this article, we’re taking a closer look at what it is, why it does so well in Texas weather, and what we’ve learned from using it on homes around Dallas–Fort Worth.

What’s Fiber Cement Siding, and How Does it Hold Up?

Fiber cement is a mix of cement, sand, and cellulose fiber. It’s made to mimic the look of natural materials like wood but provides far more durability. It doesn’t warp in the heat, soak up water, attract termites, or catch fire. That makes it a good fit for Texas, where siding has to survive 100-degree days, hailstorms, and everything in between.

Unlike vinyl, it stays put during windstorms, and unlike wood, it doesn’t rot due to moisture. While metal siding may have it beat in terms of durability, fiber cement costs less and still lasts decades when installed properly. Of course, not all fiber cement is made the same. Higher-end panels are denser, better cut, and hold paint longer. Cheaper boards still work, but they may be thinner and show wear sooner.

While fiber cement won’t dent like vinyl, sharp impacts like a weed trimmer or flying debris can chip or crack a board. It’s also non-combustible, which adds a layer of safety in wildfire-prone areas. And if you skip the factory finish, it takes paint well, which means you’ve got full control over color.

Some people ask for “Hardie boards” in the same way they might ask for a “Kleenex” instead of a tissue. While James Hardie didn’t invent fiber cement siding, the brand has become so dominant that the name has stuck. And for good reason. Hardie boards are the higher end of fiber cement siding. They look great, they come with a 30-year limited product warranty, and some have a proprietary finish that holds off peeling or cracking paint for at least 15 years.

What We’ve Seen from the Jobs We’ve Done

We’ve installed a lot of Hardie products and have seen firsthand how well they hold up in the Texas climate. That’s why, if homeowners want to upgrade their siding but metal siding is out of their budget, high-quality fiber cement panels like Hardie’s are a great option. It strikes a nice balance between durability, price, and appearance.

Of course, the highest quality panels won’t mean much if they’re improperly installed. Fiber cement is heavy and rigid, so if the flashing is sloppy or the joints aren’t sealed right, even good boards can fail. Rushed jobs lead to cracks or water getting in, all problems that could have been avoided with more care.

But when it’s done right, fiber cement panels can stay strong and look great for years. The material isn’t as strong as heavy-gauge metal, but for most Texans, it’s one of the best choices you can make to keep your home safe and keep upkeep low.

We’re Here to Help

Need more information about home siding in Texas? If you have any questions or need assistance with damage, contact DFW Roofers at (469) 751-4018 or schedule an appointment through our online appointment form.