
- Inspect the Damage. Take a close look at your damaged fiber-cement siding. ...
- Clean the Siding. Before sealing the crack in the fiber-cement siding, clean it to get rid of all dirt and debris. ...
- Mix the Patching Compound. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on the packaging of your cementitious patching compound, mixing it with water in a bucket using a stir stick or ...
- Apply the Patching Compound to the Crack. Spread the patching compound into the crack using a putty knife. ...
- Let the Compound Set. Once you've applied the patching compound and smoothed it out, let it sit for at least a few hours to allow it to harden ...
- Paint the Siding. Grab a bucket of paint and a paint brush and get to work painting over the filled crack. ...
How much does it cost to install fiber cement siding?
Your actual price will depend on job size, conditions, finish options you choose. It costs $750 to $1,350 to install one square of fiber cement siding, which is equal to 100 square feet. You can expect to pay anywhere between $15,000 to $27,000 to complete a fiber cement siding project on a typical house.
Is fiber cement siding worth the cost?
This is based on how much the project costs versus the resale value. New siding for your home is worth the investment because it has proven to yield a solid return for many years. You’ll see the money spent on fiber cement siding come back when it’s time to sell your home.
What are the problems with cement board siding?
Worst Problems With Hardie Siding Recap
- Water Damage. As we said above moisture problems with Hardie siding is a huge issue if installed improperly. ...
- Clearance Issues. When installing fiber cement you have to respect the manufacturers recommended clearances. ...
- Improper Flashing. ...
- Missing Flashing. ...
- Hardie Board Installation Problems. ...
- Huge Gaps. ...
- Unpainted Joints. ...
- Warped Hardie Siding. ...
What are the advantages of fiber cement siding?
Advantages of Fiber Cement Siding. Durability. Just the name—“fiber cement”—has an industrial-strength ring to it. Indeed, this product is considered the most resistant to common enemies of residential siding. The material doesn’t rot or warp and is crack-resistant. UV exposure does not degrade it and it resists hail, snow and ice.

How do you fill holes in fiber cement siding?
ColorPlus® Touch-up Kits can be used to cover nicks, scrapes and nail holes that may occur over time. If the touch up area is larger than the size of a dime, the use of ColorPlus® Touch-up Kit is NOT recommended. It is advised to replace the damage siding with a new section of ColorPlus® siding.
How do you fix a hole in Hardie siding?
The James Hardie company, makers of HardiePlank, recommends the use of a cement patch product made of an acrylic mortar compound for patching their siding products. Acrylic mortar compound can be found at most home improvement retailers and hardware stores under various brand and trade names.
Can fiber cement siding be repaired?
Repair or Patching Fiber Cement Board Siding Refer to manufacturer recommendations for products that are compatible with fiber cement. For small areas of damage you can use a sealant/caulk (preferably one designed for cement repairs) but then you will have to paint those areas of repair to match the original color.
How do you fix a small hole in Hardie board?
Use thin-set mortar to repair cracks or holes in cement boards. Step 3: Mix up a small amount of thin-set mortar following the manufacturer's instructions. Thin-set mortar typically has a working time of less than 15 minutes, so smaller batches are the way to go.
How do you fix a hole in cement board?
Use a carton knife or carbide tip tool to cut the cement board to expose a stud on either side of the damaged area. Use the knife to score and break a new piece of cement board to fit the hole. Attach the new board to the stud using corrosion-resistant screws. Predrill the holes for easier installation.
How do you fix cement fiber board?
4:3710:28Fiber cement boards installation - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTo attach hardy back or cement board to subfloor. Apply a layer of thinset on the subfloor. UsingMoreTo attach hardy back or cement board to subfloor. Apply a layer of thinset on the subfloor. Using your trowel. Then embed hardy backer cement board firmly. And evenly in the wet. Thinset.
Can you pressure wash fiber cement siding?
The hard spray of water from the power washer can damage the surface of the siding. In fact, pressure washing fiber cement siding is one of the only ways you can damage this durable type of siding. Instead, use a soft cloth and soft bristle brush to clean your siding as needed.
How do you repair a large hole in a Fibre cement wall?
2:023:42repairing asbestos sheets.mpg - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThey can disturb the surface and release asbestos particles. You can patch small holes using aMoreThey can disturb the surface and release asbestos particles. You can patch small holes using a filler. However it should be applied sparingly.
What kind of caulk do you use on Hardie board siding?
Manufacturers' Caulk and Sealant Recommendation Sheet S-100B Caulks and Sealants: James Hardie recommends the use of caulks and sealants that remain permanently flexible.
How do you repair Hardie board damage?
Cut the fiber cement siding to length (wear approved dust protection). Blind-nail the fiber cement siding in place, starting with the bottom piece. Face-nail the top piece of fiber cement siding through the old siding. Prime and paint new siding to match the old.
What do you use to fill nail holes in hardiplank?
The installation guide for Hardie Board, which is a brand of cement board siding recommends using caulking to fill nail holes. When I've installed it I used a high-quality exterior paintable calking after smoothing the edge of the holes. Once the caulk is dry you can touch up the paint.
What kind of caulk do you use on Hardie board siding?
Manufacturers' Caulk and Sealant Recommendation Sheet S-100B Caulks and Sealants: James Hardie recommends the use of caulks and sealants that remain permanently flexible.
How do you repair a hole in the outside wall?
2:535:16DIY fix hole through the exterior wall - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo I'm gonna apply some stucco patch. That I just went and bought and we'll see what happens and theMoreSo I'm gonna apply some stucco patch. That I just went and bought and we'll see what happens and the stucco patch. I'll just need to color it and then I'll have the same texture as this hopefully.
Proper Installation
The first preventative measure is proper installation. Due to the nature of fiber cement – it’s heavy and hard to cut – you want to take care to follow proper steps. This type of siding is susceptible to moisture damage, so it’s super important to properly fasten, gap, and seal.
Caulking
Caulking is also another important factor. Obviously, it’s crucial to adequately caulk during installation. But as time goes by, you’ll also want to keep an eye on the condition of the caulking. Part of the repainting process should also include re-caulking, but you don’t want to wait until your next recoating to inspect your sealant.
Use the Right Paint
Another tip is to use proper paint. When recoating, go with one that is UV resistant. This will protect your siding from unnecessary fading. Also, choose an acrylic latex paint that’s formulated for exterior use. For the smoothest application, use a paint sprayer. This helps big time, especially when there’s a lot of texture.
Routine Cleaning
Finally, routine cleaning is a fantastic way to keep your siding shiny and safe. From chalking to mold to grime, an annual clean will do wonders. You can either use a garden hose (in conjunction with a scrub brush) or a power washer to get the job done. With particularly stubborn spots, hit them with a brush.
Steps To Repair Cracked Fiber Cement Siding
First, inspect the damage. If it’s isolated to one panel or plank, or in a small area, it should be within your ability to repair. If not, you’ll want to consult a professional. Make sure to clean off any grime or debris prior to jumping into work. Use one gallon of water and half a cup of trisodium phosphate (TSP). Make sure to wear gloves.
Repairing Loose Panels
When dealing with loose panels, the most common issue is that a nail or multiple nails are not sunk into a stud. The easiest fix is to nail the piece back into place, making sure it goes into a stud. When there’s no stud available behind the siding, a technique called ‘pinning back’ can be applied.
How to make cementitious patching compound?
Mix the latex-modified cementitious patching compound in a small bucket, according to the manufacturer's instructions. Blend the compound until its consistency is stiff enough to hold on the tip of a putty knife.
How long does it take for a sanding compound to cure?
Wait three hours for the compound to cure. Keep the surface of the compound moist by spraying it with a mist of water if it begins to dry. Allow the repaired area to sit for 24 hours.
Is fiber cement siding good for a home?
Fiber-cement siding is an attractive alternative for homeowners who want the look of wood siding with the rot resistance, fire resistance and durability of cement. Fiber-cement siding is low-cost for its rated lifespan and is easy to maintain when compared with other siding choices.
Can fiber cement cracks be repaired?
No matter how durable fiber-cement siding is, though, cracks can still occur. Small cracks can be repaired with a special patching compound before they cause breaks, saving you the work of removing and replacing a damaged panel. Adding a fresh coat of paint over the patched area will blend the repair into the surrounding siding.
What is fiber cement siding?
Work gloves. Ladder. Fiber cement siding looks like wood, but it’s actually a tough, industrial-material alternative that’s waterproof, fire-proof insect-resistant, making it a very popular choice for most homeowners.
Can you stain siding with acrylic paint?
Use only completely acrylic paint, and apply with rollers. Depending on the size of your house, you may need a ladder to reach the area of siding near the roof. Remember, above all else, that you must not stain siding; the material is not able to hold the stain, and the end result will not be pretty! Only use paint.
Why use fiber cement siding?
One of the many reasons homeowners choose fiber cement for their siding needs is that fiber cement is so sturdy. Fiber cement siding can stand up to almost anything that Mother Nature can throw at it. Unfortunately, bad luck does sometimes strike – an earthquake hits, or the house has a run-in with a car – and the integrity ...
How to patch a cement wall?
First, clean the area thoroughly with a damp cloth, and remove any hanging particles; the area to be patched must be clean and solid around the edges. Using a stiff brush, mix the patch material specifically intended for fiber cement following the manufacturer’s directions carefully; use only as much water as the manufacturer recommends. ...
How long does a patch last on a wall?
If done properly, the patch should last for years, but there are no guarantees to the structural integrity of the siding.
Can you repair siding with a warranty?
If the siding was originally installed by United Home Experts , then it should still be under warranty and will be repaired promptly and efficiently at no charge. However, if the siding was originally homeowner-installed, or was installed by another company without a long-term guarantee, then repairs may fall to the homeowner.
Why is my fiber cement siding buckling?
Buckled fiber cement siding is most likely to occur because the installer failed to give the recommended gap between the ends of the fiber cement boards and abutting vertical trim at corners, windows, doors, etc. Buckling fiber cement siding may also occur if the product was not properly nailed.
Why does my siding have algae?
Algae, fungus, moss or lichens on siding are usually due to a combination of moisture and shade on the building wall. Plants too close to the building wall, repeated wetting by sprinkler systems, or unnecessarily dense close shade tree growth are conditions that can usually be remedied.
Can fiber cement siding be sealed?
Cut ends of fiber cement siding should have been sealed using 100% acrylic latex primer or paint (Certainteed) or in some cases using an approved caulk wiped on the cut surface (see our notes on Hardieplank installation). And caulk is required at certain joints such as vertical trim at windows, doors, corners.
Do you need caulk on a J channel?
And caulk is required at certain joints such as vertical trim at windows, doors, corners. Caulk is not to be installed in J channel, F- channel, nor in fiber cement siding butt joints, though it may have been applied later by a homeowner or maintenance contractor.
Can you replace cracked siding?
You can replace the damaged sections (work with care); You could also back-flash and then simply paint the cracked siding; #N#any sealant or "patch" will "work" mechanically to seal the crack but it'll be ugly when painted.
Can James Hardie siding be filled with cementitious?
Dents, chips, cracks and other minor surface damage in James Hardie siding and trim products can be filled with cementitious patching compound. Refer to manufacturer recommendations for products that are compatible with fiber cement.
What is fiber cement maintenance?
As a guide, it is recommended that normal fiber cement maintenance tasks and care include: Installing gutters and downspouts on your home —if they are not already present when you purchased the home. Cleaning out your gutters, blocked pipes, and overflows of any debris, leaves, twigs and dirt.
What is the best way to clean siding and trim?
Extra care should be taken when cleaning your siding and trim using a pressure washer.
How much pressure should I use to keep siding and trim from leaking?
To minimize the chance of damaging your siding and trim use a wide fan tip, keep a minimum of 6 feet from the wall, and keep the pressure below 1500 psi. Maintaining the exterior of your home helps prevent water intrusion and is an important part of sustaining the beauty and value of your home.
Can you replace James Hardie siding?
It is advised to replace the damage siding with a new section of ColorPlus® siding. If your James Hardie siding was originally painted after it was installed on your home, then check the original paint manufacturer’s recommendations for reapplication of paint.
Can James Hardie siding be filled with cementitious?
Dents, chips, cracks and other minor surface damage in James Hardie siding and trim products can be filled with cementitious patching compound. Refer to manufacturer’s recommendations for products that are compatible with fiber cement.
What siding goes around a 6 year old house?
A 6 year old house has the fiber cement siding abutting the flashing. This goes all around the house. Can we take a saw and cut a 1/4" out of the bottom plank?
Is the builder of a spec home responsible for defects?
Steve I should have added that regarding your assumption that the builder of a spec home is not responsible for construction defects, that depends in part on where you live. For example New York and some other states have a New Home Warranty Law.
Does James Hardie use color matched caulk?
James Hardie [JH] does not approve use of JH approved color matched caulk, other caulking materials or cementitious patching compounds to touch up nail heads, nail holes, dents, chips, cracks or other minor surface blemishes on JH products with ColorPlus® Technology. Warranty Coverage.
Can you use a Scot#N# to fasten down siding?
Scot#N#To fasten down any board type siding without removing and replacing (working from bottom-up) you'll want to follow the manufacturer's face-nailing recommendations such as are used at trim where nails are not covered by the next siding course.
Can you use power grab on loose fiber cement?
Loctite's "Power Grab" construction adhesive is not likely to perform well in an effort to glue loose fiber cement siding boards, because those boards, in a normal installation, are nailed to building sheathing and framing that have first been covered with housewrap.
Can James Hardie siding be filled with cementitious?
Dents, chips, cracks and other minor surface damage in James Hardie siding and trim products can be filled with cementitious patching compound. Refer to manufacturer recommendations for products that are compatible with fiber cement.

Step 1 – Clean The Siding
Step 2 – Replace The Caulking
- Over time, caulking around windows, door frames and trim can crumble away and fall out. Use your caulk gun to replace all caulking now.
Step 3 – Repair Any Holes
- If you have some small cracks and holes in your siding, you can fill them in with patching material specifically designed for this purpose, available at your local hardware store. Keep in mind that the patching will be obvious, whether or not you paint over it, so this is the best solution if the cracks and holes are in out of the way places that a...
Step 4 – Apply Fresh Paint
- Finally, now that your siding is clean and renewed, it’s ready to paint. Make sure that the siding is completely dry from the washing, and that the caulk and patches are dry too. Use only completely acrylic paint, and apply with rollers. Depending on the size of your house, you may need a ladder to reach the area of siding near the roof. Remember, above all else, that you must not stain siding; t…