Cemboard for Factory Built Homes
Frequently Asked Questions
What is fiber cement?
Cemboard® fiber cement siding is a mixture of sand, cement, cellulose wood fibers, and water. When combined, these materials make for a highly durable alternative to vinyl or hardboard siding products.
Why does fiber cement perform well?
Cemboard siding materials have incredible dimensional stability through a wide range of temperature changes. The cementitious composition is by definition impervious to insects and has been independently tested to have a "0" flame spread index and a "0" smoke development number(please note that any finishing product may burn or cause smoke). Cemboard siding also looks, feels, and is installed just like wood siding.
What tools are required to work with Cemboard siding products?
To help you have a safer jobsite, the manufacturer has developed the following "tiered" system to help you select the best tools and methods for your given job requirements. This system has been based around exposure testing in what the manufacturer believes to be real-world conditions to ensure that you can have a safe jobsite. Note: For maximum protection (lowest respirable dust exposures), the manufacturer always recommends using "Best"-level cutting methods where feasible. If you do not adhere to the recommended cutting instructions, please contact the manufacturer or consult with a qualified industrial hygienist.
| TOOL RATING CATEGORY | CUTTING METHOD | CUTTING RATE1 | VENTILATION |
|---|---|---|---|
| BEST | HANDHELD SHEARS PLATFORM SHEARS SCORE AND SNAP | NO LIMITATIONS | INDOOR / OUTDOOR |
| BETTER | DUST-REDUCING SAWS WITH FIBER CEMENT SAW BLADE COUPLED WITH HEPA VACUUM EXTRACTION | NO LIMITATIONS | OUTDOOR |
| GOOD | DUST-REDUCING SAWS WITH FIBER CEMENT SAW BLADE | LOW TO MODERATE | OUTDOOR |
1Cutting rate is based on linear feet of material actually being cut
NEVER use high speed power tools (e.g. circular saws, grinders, etc) to cut Cemboard siding products indoors as they may generate excessive respirable silica dust
How is Cemplank fastened to the house?
Similar to traditional cedar siding, Cemplank can be blind or face nailed by hand or with a power nailer. (See our published installation guidelines for further details and recommendations: Cemplank installation guidelines, Cempanel installation guidelines, Cemtrim installation guidelines.)
Do Cemboard siding products need to be painted?
Yes, Cemboard siding products must be painted. 100% acrylic topcoats are recommended. Do not paint when wet. For specific recommendations, please refer to JH Technical Bulletin No. S-100 or refer to paint manufacturers specifications. Back rolling is recommended if the siding is sprayed. Within 180 days for primed product.
Are Cemboard products "environmentally friendly?"
Cemboard siding products are considered "green" products with no detrimental affects on the environment. Cemboard siding products are manufactured in an extremely resource efficient process where the materials are recycled up to four times. Also, Cemboard siding is very durable and has a long life expectancy, which means your house will be sided once in your lifetime not two or three times.