What is fiber cement siding, and what are the pros and cons?

Cement board siding, also known as fiber cement siding, is a type of siding material made from a blend of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers.  This composite material is highly durable, moisture-resistant, and fire-resistant, making it a popular choice for exterior home cladding.  James Hardie is a brand of siding and you will often hear people reference fiber cement siding as "Hardie siding."
Pros:

• Durability: Cement board siding is highly durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions, including high winds, heavy rain, and hail.
• Moisture-resistant: Cement board siding is highly resistant to moisture, which helps prevent rot, mold, and mildew from forming on the siding.
• Fire-resistant: Cement board siding is highly resistant to fire and can help protect your home in case of a fire.
• Low maintenance: Cement board siding requires little maintenance, as it is highly resistant to damage from insects and moisture, and does not need to be painted frequently.

Cons:

• Cost: Cement board siding is more expensive than some other siding materials, such as vinyl or aluminum siding.
• Installation: Cement board siding requires specialized tools and training to install properly, which can make it more expensive to install than some other siding materials.
• Weight: Cement board siding is heavy, which can make it difficult to install and may require additional structural support.
• Limited color options: While cement board siding can be painted in any color, the color options for pre-painted cement board siding may be limited.

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