Considering cement board siding for my project, looking for advice – anyone have experience or tips to share?
Asked by Ida Poulsen 
5 months ago
Last Updated: June 14, 2024
I’m considering finishing this off with cement board siding. Has anyone tried it before? Any helpful advice or tips would be great!
Try using a chalk line to guide you, make sure to hit the studs, and avoid face nailing unless necessary in certain areas. Allow the bottom piece to hang 1” – 1 1/2” below the top of the concrete, and add corner boards against the brick for extra support.
Thank you so much, !
That’s a great suggestion, ! If possible, invest in small jigs that help you quickly achieve the correct reveal on the previous board. I have a set of jigs and they have been real lifesavers. You simply hang them on the board you just installed, and the next board fits perfectly. The key is to ensure the first board is installed perfectly, and the rest will be a piece of cake. Just remember to check periodically to maintain accuracy.
In my experience, I always prefer to mark the wall with chalk lines or use a story pole/corner boards as I mentioned before, . I start from the bottom piece to ensure it is straight and properly aligned on the wall, then I mark every 6″ or 7″ increment all the way up, depending on the siding reveal. I personally don’t rely on jigs. Everyone has their own techniques and I still stick to the traditional methods!
I used to do things the old-fashioned way until I discovered that these methods significantly reduce the time it takes to complete my projects. But, as you mentioned, everyone has their own approach and what works for some might not work for others.
The finish is quite delicate and prone to mechanical (impact) damage. Make sure to wear a mask while cutting it.
It’s worth investing in brickwork.
Maybe consider using concrete siding that matches the upper portion to enhance its appearance, depending on the final look you’re going for in that area of the house.
I know this might seem out of the blue, but I think having a projector screen there would be awesome. You could have movie nights with the family or use it for holiday fun. Plus, my whole house is made of hardy board and I can’t stand it. Lol. It’s easy to break and you can see the nails – not a fan. Good luck!
Cement board becomes more fragile over time and lacks impact resistance like LP Smartside
Thanks, . I might need to explore that option.
Hey, , LP is actually easier to work with and it also comes in longer lengths for a neater installation.
Hd has 4×8 pvc sheets that are 1/2 inch thick, they are about $100 each and are easier to work with.