Fiber cement siding is already well-equipped to deal with the elements, and adding caulk can be a smart way to seal off potential gaps near windows, corners, and doors. Caulking fiber cement siding involves a slightly different process than caulking wood, so it is important to become familiar with the steps involved.
As with most building projects, proper installation is absolutely key for the product to perform its best. It also helps to work with a material that is already crafted for better strength and durability. Take a look at the advantages of working with fiber cement siding and learn the steps involved with caulking fiber cement siding correctly.
Fiber Cement Offers Superior Weather Protection
Traditionally, the main purpose of caulk is to close up gaps in the siding so that moisture cannot seep in beneath and create long-term damage. Caulk is used for lots of different siding materials. For many of the traditional building materials, like wood, caulk is absolutely vital. This is because most wood siding is not capable of holding up on its own. Moisture can cause wood siding to warp, rot, and weaken, so sealing up gaps with caulk is absolutely essential to ensure a long product lifespan.
When it comes to caulking fiber cement siding, this extra step can certainly help strengthen the siding against moisture. Because of its unique composition of water, sand, cellulose fibers, and cement, fiber cement is one of the strongest siding materials around. It is already built to be moisture-resistant and weather-resistant which makes it a great choice for durable, long-lasting exteriors. Adding caulk completes and secures the advanced moisture-resistance inherent in fiber cement.
Caulking for Fiber Cement Siding
Though fiber cement siding is already moisture-resistant, adding caulk along certain areas can enhance the exterior’s line of defense. Caulking fiber cement siding is a bit different from caulking wood or other types of siding.
Caulk comes in liquid form and is often sold in a tube. Applying caulk with a caulk gun can speed up and simplify the process. A thin layer of caulk is usually all that’s needed to seal the gaps in exterior materials, and it’s important to apply the caulk in a smooth line so that it dries properly. As the caulk hardens, it creates a solid seal, effectively blocking out rainwater, pests, and other elements from getting trapped behind the siding. If you plan on painting your siding, be sure to choose a paintable caulking product.
For best results, use an elastomeric joint sealant complying with ASTM C920 Grade NS (Class 25 or higher), or use a latex joint sealant complying with ASTM C834.
Caulk wherever siding meets the trim at non-self-flashing penetrations and vertical terminations (i.e. at doors, windows, mounting blocks etc). It is never acceptable to caulk between fiber cement siding and horizontal flashing at areas such as window and door heads, band boards, mounting blocks, and floor line breaks. Do not caulk areas where fiber cement siding has been inserted into J-channel or another pocket or accessory.
Once completed, the dried caulk can be painted, if necessary, to match the fiber cement siding. Fully installed, your home now benefits from the exceptional moisture-resistance of fiber cement siding, sealed into place with proper caulking.
High-Quality Fiber Cement Siding from Allura is Built to Last
Fiber cement is a superior building material that can provide long-lasting quality with very little maintenance. Because of its unique composition, fiber cement siding outperforms traditional siding materials, and provides better protection against moisture, wind, fire, and everyday wear and tear. Fiber cement siding is a fast and easy way to upgrade an old home or outfit an entirely new build. For this reason, it is highly sought after in today’s market.
Allura offers a wide variety of fiber cement siding products, giving customers an abundance of stylish designs and color options to choose from. Whether you’re going for a sleek and modern exterior or a charming, cottage-style aesthetic, Allura makes it easy by providing an assortment of fiber cement styles, including lap, shake, and architectural panels. With a 30-year warranty, a Class A Fire Rating, and super-easy installation, Allura siding is a solid choice for dependable longevity that homeowners can count on to look great for years to come.
Ready to see how easy fiber cement siding is to work with? Whether you are fixing up an older home or building from the ground up, Allura fiber cement siding is the smart choice to ensure a strong and stylish exterior. Contact Allura today to explore a wealth of fresh and exciting designs — all built with heavy-duty fiber cement.
