Can I Paint Fiber Cement Siding?
One of the most common myths around fiber cement siding is that it doesn’t need to be painted. It’s a fact that fiber cement siding is a highly durable material. But painting fiber cement siding might become necessary since most paint has a lifespan of 10 to 15 years, while fiber cement has a lifespan of up to 50 years.
When builders choose a high-quality fiber cement siding that’s factory-primed you can expect the paint cycle to last longer on your exterior but, eventually, paint will succumb to the elements even when the fiber cement underneath is still strong.
Finishes are important for the long-term durability of fiber cement, providing layers of protection against weathering.
Let’s talk tips for painting fiber cement siding when the time comes, and share some inspiration to help you design a home that has style for the long run.
Tips on Fiber Cement Paints and Finishes
“One of the products we’re seeing more and more of is fiber cement siding. It’s got a number of advantages: it’s rot proof, it’s insect resistant, and it’s relatively inexpensive,” says Fine Homebuilding.
Fiber cement offers industry-recognized home protection. Homeowners love it for exterior design because it comes in so many colors and finishes, and doesn’t need the kind of maintenance that wood siding might require.
Most paint cycles are around 10 to 15 years (though the coatings on our Architectural Wall Panels can last much longer), but that timeframe can be extended if the siding is maintained and inspected for damage on a regular basis.
Here are a few other general tips that professionals offer for painting fiber cement:
- The most common challenge with any kind of finish is that it will fade from exposure to the sun, especially for areas of the exterior that face the south.
- Choosing siding with a UV-resistant finish will help to prevent fading and sun damage more than most products.
- Consider using 100% acrylic paint on fiber cement siding and working from top to bottom during the application (following any grain pattern).
- Remember your caulking for a clean look around transitions. Smooth the caulk with a finger and wipe excess away with a damp cloth. “Use a quick-dry, flexible, paintable caulk that is designed to bond to fiber cement and your trim material,” recommends Jim Lacy for Fine Homebuilding.
Fiber Cement Siding: Truly Versatile Design
Homeowners love the array of finishes that you can choose from in fiber cement products. From brick designs to the look of wood, fiber cement gives home exteriors enhanced style and protection. Here are a few designs that are especially stylish when it comes to color.
Homeowners can choose fiber cement for modern or classic designs. Working with neutral tones like gray will give your exterior a traditional but easily-enhanced color palette. The contrast of the darker gray roof and white trim pair well against the bluish-gray shake siding from Nichiha.
Nichiha’s Savannah Smooth Panels can help homeowners achieve impactful design. The crisp and clean white backdrop on this home’s exterior, paired with more dramatic black details, makes a bold design statement without getting overly complicated or trendy.
This homeowner used a unique color combination to create visual interest on their exterior. The cool gray tone of this Sierra Premium Shake siding complements the rusty, warm color of the shake installed alongside it and inside the patio.
Cream-colored stone details are also featured on this home’s design, and the builder was able to source all exterior products from Nichiha for a cohesive, beautiful look.
Sometimes modern design can feel dull, boxy, or lifeless. But choosing a natural wood finish can add depth and warmth to a sleek, contemporary exterior. Nichiha’s VintageWood fiber cement siding is shown here in a deep, rich Bark color.
Nichiha Painting Tips
If you’re installing Nichiha fiber cement siding, there are a few guidelines you should follow when painting and maintaining your exterior so that it will last for decades.
- Primed panels should be painted within 12 months of installation to ensure the product warranty using a 100% acrylic paint. Follow the paint manufacturer’s instructions, and don’t paint if the siding is wet.
- All ends and edges should be sealed with a primer or paint during installation, using a color-matching exterior-grade acrylic paint.
- Need to touch up your Nichiha siding? There are three specific types of acrylic resin paints recommended: Sherwin Williams in Emerald and Resilience; PPG in Acri-Shield; and Benjamin Moore Regal Select paint.
- Don’t use stains or oil- or alkyd-based paints on Nichiha siding.
- Clean up any dirt, debris or mildew on the siding first before touching up.
- Discover dents or scratches? Fill these in with cementitious patching products (exterior-grade).
Remember to inspect and clean exterior siding regularly. While fiber cement siding from Nichiha doesn’t require a large amount of maintenance, homeowners should check for damage to siding after severe weather and lightly wash the siding at least once a year.
You can also check out Nichiha’s FAQ page for additional help and information on products and installation.
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A Fresher Finish With Fiber Cement
Painting fiber cement isn’t something you’ll have to worry about often, especially if you’re using a high-quality siding like Nichiha. But when the time comes to freshen up the exterior finish, following a few basic guidelines will keep your home design looking brand new.
Get more siding paint ideas from Nichiha’s project gallery: You’re sure to be inspired!