The Evolution Of Fiber Cement Sidings Since The 1900s
Homeowners and commercial property owners are gradually accepting fiber cement as a construction material. Cement and cellulose fiber that has been reinforced make up fiber cement siding. The end product is a fiber cement composite that is resilient, long-lasting, and adaptable and is frequently used for siding and roofing on homes. These are available in a wide range of sizes, colors, and shapes. In addition to being high-performance and fire-resistant, fiber cement is also cost-effective.
Over the years, fiber cement has undergone changes. Many of us are unaware of the history underlying the development of these sidings. It is a cutting-edge, adaptable, and reliable substance in the present day, but where did it all come from? We will discuss precisely that in this blog post.
The Development of Fiber Cement Siding Products
Brick, stone, and wood have been used by homeowners for ages to build barriers to protect their homes from the elements, but historically speaking, these materials have not proven very effective.
Wooden shingles and panels are prone to decay and insect invasions. Although they may not have these issues, brick and stone are substantially heavier. Consequently, the installation is a time-consuming, expensive, and labor-intensive project.
This issue existed for ten years until an Austrian inventor and businessman named Ludwig Hatschek created a durable construction panel out of common cement and asbestos fibers in the early 1900s. Hatschek used a cardboard press to press the fiber and cement combination. His invention, which he called “cladding,” had a very high level of durability and was also reasonably priced and low-maintenance. This initial asbestos-cement prototype was well received in Europe, and it was even employed as a fireproof roofing and siding option during World War II.
What Are the Current Statuses of Fiber Cement Siding Solutions?
Scientists learned that asbestos fibers were not safe for the inhabitants after asbestos only ruled as a long-lasting external siding and roofing solution for several decades. With that, asbestos-cement sidings came to an end. The limelight was replaced with a safer but similarly durable version in the 1980s. In its stead, cellulose fibers and cement were combined to create what is now known as fiber cement siding.
Fiber cement siding became very popular in a short period of time. This kind of siding has managed to maintain its widespread popularity because of its accessibility, adaptability, and great quality. A startling 15% of newly built homes in America have fiber cement siding. At the very least, it is a monument to the material’s effectiveness, ease of maintenance, resistance to decay and fire, as well as its extraordinary efficiency in the face of today’s extremely severe winters.
Sidings that Stand the Test of Time
The Clear Creek siding team are expert in concrete siding. For additional information on our products and services, contact us at (417) 862-9511.
