exterior cladding
Fiber-cement lap siding (HardiePlank)
Compressed cellulose-fiber-and-cement boards in horizontal lap profile. Holds paint very well; resistant to rot, insects, and fire.
Cost tier
MID
Cost / sqft
$5–$12
Install
trade
Durability
high
Maintenance
low
Moisture
good
Cost notes
Cuts to size with carbide blade; specialty PPE recommended due to silica dust. Repaints every 12-15 years.
Aesthetic
- Finish: smooth, wood-grain texture
- Color range: primed for paint, factory-finished palettes
- Pattern: 4"-12" exposure lap
- Visual weight: medium
Climate suitability
✓ Hot-humid
✓ Hot-dry
✓ Mixed-humid
✓ Mixed-dry
✓ Cold
✓ Arctic
Code notes
Class A fire rating. IRC R703.10 governs fiber-cement siding. FEMA recommends fiber-cement as a preferred WUI-zone substitute for combustible wood claddings.
Codes & rules that govern this material
Alternatives
Source
Architectural Graphic Standards — Architectural Graphic Standards (Ramsey/Sleeper) — Materials chapter
Tags: fiber-cement, lap, low-maintenance, fire-resistant