Fibre cement siding is durable and long-lasting, but occasionally,
it can crack nonetheless. When you find tiny or large cracks in
your siding, it’s essential to know why they occur. Cracks may
cause water damage, mold, or heat loss if they are not repaired. In
this blog, we discuss the most common reasons for fibre cement
siding cracks and how to repair or prevent them.
1. Incorrect Installation
Another leading cause of fibre cement siding cracking is that it
wasn’t installed correctly. If the siding boards are nailed down too
firmly or not left with an adequate gap, they are unable to expand
and contract with the temperature changes. This stresses the material,
and eventually, it cracks. Be sure to hire a professional contractor
such as Straight Path Construction who understands how to install
fibre cement siding properly.
2. Temperature Fluctuations and Weather
Calgary weather can be challenging for siding. We tend to have wide
temperature fluctuations between the seasons—or even from day to
night. Fibre cement siding may expand and contract a bit when
temperatures change. If there is no space for the material to move,
it can crack due to pressure. Snow, ice, and freezing rain can exacerbate
cracks if water penetrates.
3. Building Movement or Settling
It is normal for all houses to settle somewhat over time. Settling
refers to the movement of your walls and siding slightly. If the siding
is not flexible enough or wasn’t installed with enough flexibility,
that movement will create cracks. Settling cracks tend to occur
at corners or seams.
4. Moisture Problems
If water seeps behind your siding and remains there, it can deteriorate
the material. The damp siding becomes weaker over time and will
crack or break into pieces. That’s why sealing, flashing, and ventilation
are crucial. Keeping the inside of your siding dry keeps your
outside strong.
5. Old or Low-Quality Siding
Fibre cement siding is intended to last for decades, but not all of
them are created equal. Older or lower-cost alternatives won’t last
quite as well. If your siding is more than 20 years old or
constructed from lower-grade materials, it could be more susceptible
to cracking later on. In this situation, a replacement siding
could be the long-term solution.
Poor Maintenance Over Time
Though fibre cement siding is low maintenance, it must be cared
for still. Dirt, mold, or moisture on the surface can eventually
cause the material to weaken. Cracks can begin to occur should the
siding not be cleaned or evaluated. Washing your siding often,
examining it for damage, and repainting every 10–15 years will
help avoid cracks in the future.
Damage due to Impact or Accidents
Cracks may also occur if something collides with your siding with
force. Such as a lawnmower that throws a rock, a ladder that slams
against the wall, or a hailstorm breaking fibre cement boards.
These impacts may not be very evident in the beginning but can result
in deeper cracks or breaks with time. It’s crucial to fix these places
early before water enters and creates more issues.
What You Can Do About Cracks
If you notice a tiny crack, don’t disregard it. Even the smallest cracks
allow water to enter and damage your home. For small sections, the
repair may be all that is needed. For bigger cracks or an area where
there is a lot of damage, it might be best to replace the section of
the siding. Always have a professional inspect it first so you
know what’s best.
Call the Calgary Experts
Straight Path Construction knows how to repair cracked fibre
cement siding. We provide inspections, repairs, and complete
replacements if necessary. Our crew ensures all is sealed correctly
so your siding will last longer and protect your home from moisture
and dryness. If you see cracks or other issues, have us come out
and inspect it for free to save you money.
Final Thought
Small cracks in fibre cement siding can look insignificant, but they
cause big issues. Understanding why they happen such as poor
installation, weather, or moisture can help you avoid them. With
the right contractor and proper maintenance, your siding can remain
intact for decades. Don’t delay repairing cracks now that can save
you money down the road.
