Fibre Cement Cladding Boards Alternatives

02 Oct Fibre Cement Cladding Boards Alternatives

If you do not want fibre cement cladding, you have many options. Some people pick other materials because fibre cement can make silica dust when cut or drilled. This dust can cause bad health problems like silicosis and lung disease. You may also worry about water damage, hard installation, or want something that lasts longer and needs less care. Here are the best alternatives you can choose:

• MgO boards

• Plywood

• Gypsum board

• PVC panels

• Metal siding

• DensShield

• Foam backer boards

• Weathertex

• Wood

• Composite cladding

• Brick or stone veneer

You can look at these choices by how green, strong, cheap, simple to put in, nice-looking, and weather-proof they are.

Key Takeaways

• Look at different cladding choices like MgO boards, plywood, and metal siding. Pick the one that works best for you.

• Think about the environment when you choose materials. Some options like Weathertex and composite cladding use recycled stuff. These are good for nature.

• Check how much care each cladding type needs. Some, like composite cladding, need little work. This can help you save time and money.

• Remember your local weather. Metal siding and brick veneer do well in tough weather.

• Talk to a local expert before you decide. They can help you pick cladding that fits your budget, style, and the environment.

Fibre Cement Cladding Alternatives

If you want something other than fibre cement cladding, you have many choices. Each choice has good and bad points. Here is a quick look at the main options and what makes them special.

MgO Cladding Board

MgO boards are getting more popular now. They are strong, fireproof, and do not get damaged by water or mold. MgO boards are lighter than fibre cement cladding. This means you can put them up faster and with less work. They cost more at first, but you save money later because they last longer and need less care. MgO boards are also better for the planet because they use safe, natural materials.

Quick Comparison: MgO vs Fibre Cement Cladding

Plywood

Plywood is a common choice for cladding. It looks like real wood and is easy to use. Plywood can last from 20 to 50 years outside. Most of the time, it lasts about 35 years. If you paint and seal it often, it can last even longer. The type of plywood and your local weather matter too. Plywood usually costs less than fibre cement cladding, but you must take care of it.

• Lasts 20–50 years (average 35 years)

• Needs regular painting and sealing

• Cheaper than many other options

Gypsum Board

Gypsum board is light and simple to put up. You see it inside buildings a lot, but some types work outside too. Gypsum boards stop fire, but not as well as fibre cement cladding. In a fire, fibre cement cladding lasts longer. Both protect well, but if you live where fires happen, fibre cement cladding is safer.

• Good fire resistance, but not as strong as fibre cement

• Easy to cut and install

• Best for dry climates or indoor use

PVC Panels

PVC panels are plastic boards for cladding. They keep your house warm in winter and cool in summer. This helps you save on energy bills. PVC can be recycled, and some panels use old plastic. But making PVC uses chemicals that can hurt the earth. Burning old panels can make toxic smoke. PVC panels are light, easy to clean, and come in many colors.

• Great insulation, energy efficient

• Recyclable, but production can pollute

• Easy to install and maintain

Metal Siding

Metal siding gives buildings a modern look. It is strong and can last up to 50 years if the weather is mild. Metal stands up to storms and wind, but it can rust in wet or salty places. You need to clean it sometimes and check for rust. Fibre cement cladding lasts longer and needs less care, but metal siding is easier to clean and does not need much paint.

• Lasts up to 50 years in good conditions

• Can rust in wet or salty air

• Needs little maintenance, just cleaning

DensShield

DensShield is a special board that fights water, mold, and fire. You can use it behind many cladding types, like brick, stucco, or wood. It stays flat and does not bend, even after lots of rain or sun. DensShield works in hot and cold places, so you can trust it almost anywhere.

Foam Backer Boards

Foam backer boards help insulate your walls. They keep your house warm in winter and cool in summer. Some brands, like SilveRboard®, have an R-value of 4.0 to 5.0 per inch. You can use them under other cladding for more energy savings. Foam boards are light and easy to cut, but you must protect them from sun and damage.

Weathertex

Weathertex is made from 100% natural Australian hardwood. It is fully recyclable and breaks down in nature. Weathertex does not let out bad chemicals into the air. It has top green ratings and meets strict building rules. If you want a green choice, Weathertex is a great pick.

Wood

Wood cladding makes your home look warm and natural. You need to care for it, especially in wet places. Use saturators to protect it from sun and rain. These products stop the wood from turning gray or splitting. You should use them again every 2 to 5 years. Let air move behind the boards and leave gaps for water to drain. Oils are easier than stains, but you still need to check and clean the wood often.

Tip: Always seal the ends of wood boards to stop water from getting in and causing damage.

Composite Cladding

Composite cladding mixes wood fibers and plastic. These boards do not scratch, dent, or fade easily. Some brands, like Norx Paris, have a top fire rating, so they are good for apartments or condos. Composite boards often use recycled stuff, which is better for the earth. They also have edges that lock together, so you can put them up fast and with less waste.

Brick/Stone Veneer

Brick and stone veneer give homes a classic, strong look. They last a long time and need little care. You can pick from different ways to put them up. Regular brick costs $6 to $12 for each square foot. Stone veneer can cost $8 to $18 for each square foot. Fibre cement cladding costs less to install, but brick and stone last longer and add value to your home.

If you want a look that never goes out of style and do not mind paying more at first, brick or stone veneer could be your best choice.

Fibre Cement Cladding vs MgO Board

Composition

You might wonder what goes into these boards. Fibre cement cladding uses cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. MgO board contains magnesium oxide, fiberglass mesh, and minerals. Here’s a quick look:

Benefits

MgO board stands out for moisture resistance. You can use it in humid places or wet rooms. It doesn’t swell, warp, or rot when wet. Mold and mildew don’t grow on it, so your air stays cleaner. MgO board keeps its strength in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. You can trust it in both dry and humid climates.

• Resists water and moisture

• No swelling or warping

• Stops mold and mildew

• Works in any climate

Installation

You’ll find MgO boards easier to install. Contractors say MgO boards go up faster than fibre cement cladding. Fibre cement cladding is heavier and needs special tools. You also need dust control, which slows things down and costs more.

Maintenance

MgO board needs less care. You don’t have to worry about water damage or mold. Fibre cement cladding may need more checks for cracks or moisture over time.

Cost

MgO board usually costs $1.50 to $2.50 per square foot. Fibre cement cladding ranges from $5 to $14 per square foot. MgO board saves you money, especially for big projects.

Aesthetics

You can paint MgO boards any color you like. They come in light gray, white, or beige. You also get basic textures. Fibre cement cladding offers different looks, but MgO board gives you more freedom with paint.

Environmental Impact

MgO board is better for the planet. Its production uses less energy and captures CO2. Fibre cement cladding relies on synthetic resins that can harm nature. MgO board is fully recyclable. It releases 22% less CO2 than concrete-based boards.

If you want a greener, easier, and more cost-effective choice, MgO board is worth considering.

Other Alternatives Comparison

Durability

You want cladding that lasts a long time. Composite cladding is very tough and strong. It does not scratch or dent easily. You do not need to worry about daily damage. Metal siding also lasts many years, especially in mild weather. Brick and stone veneer can last for many decades with little trouble. Wood and plywood look nice but need more care to stay strong.

Sustainability

If you care about the earth, you have good choices. Weathertex is made from all natural hardwood. It breaks down in nature. EQUITONE products have special green certificates and reports. These show how they affect the planet. Composite cladding often uses recycled materials. This helps cut down on waste.

• Weathertex: 100% natural, breaks down in nature

• EQUITONE: Green certified, has reports

• Composite: Made with recycled stuff

Cost

Cladding prices can be very different. Here is a quick look at average costs in 2024:

PVC and foam boards usually cost less. Brick and stone veneer cost more at first.

Installation

You may have some problems when putting up new cladding. You must make sure the wall is clean and flat. Moisture barriers are needed in wet places. Some materials need time to get used to the weather before you install them. You also need to leave small gaps. This stops the cladding from bending or cracking.

Maintenance

Composite cladding needs the least care over ten years. You only need to wash it sometimes. PVC cladding can fade or break, so you may need to change panels sooner. Wood and plywood need painting or sealing often to look good.

• Composite cladding: Needs little care, lasts long

• PVC: Needs more care, can fade or break

• Wood: Needs paint or seal every few years

Aesthetics

You have many ways to make your building look nice. ACM panels come in many colors and textures. You can pick shiny, dull, or special coatings. Metal panels look modern. Wood grain finishes make things feel warm. Brick and stone veneer give a classic look.

• ACM panels: Many colors, smooth or rough, special finishes

• Metal: Modern, clean look

• Wood: Natural, warm style

• Brick/Stone: Classic, strong look

Environmental Impact

Recent studies show composite cladding with cement is better for the earth than ceramic tiles or stone. Weathertex and EQUITONE are also good for green building. The biggest problems come from making and moving the materials. Using local products helps lower your carbon footprint.

• Composite cladding: Better for earth than stone or ceramic

• Weathertex: Breaks down, low pollution

• EQUITONE: Certified as green

Choosing the Best Alternative

For Sustainability

If you want your home to be greener, you have good choices. FSC-certified wood, recycled metal, and natural stone are better for the earth. Timber grows back and breaks down in nature. Insulated cladding keeps your house warm and saves energy. COLORBOND® steel can be used again and lasts a long time. Here’s a quick look at how these materials compare:

Tip: For a truly green home, pick materials with eco labels and recycled parts.

For Budget

You may want to save money but still have strong, nice walls. Vinyl siding is cheap and easy to care for. It works in many places and comes in many styles. Fibre cement cladding is tough and looks like wood or stone. It costs less than real timber or brick.

• Vinyl siding: Cheap, easy to care for, many styles

• Fibre cement cladding: Strong, saves money, looks like wood or stone

For Modern Design

If you like a modern look, metal siding and composite panels are great. Metal panels make your home look clean and last a long time. Composite cladding comes in many colors and textures. You can match your style. You can also mix different materials for a special look.

For Low Maintenance

You might want cladding that needs little work. Composite cladding and COLORBOND® steel are top picks. They do not fade, scratch, or dent easily. You only need to wash them sometimes. Vinyl siding also needs very little care.

Note: Low-maintenance cladding saves you time and money over the years.

For Harsh Climates

If you live where weather is rough, you need strong cladding. Metal siding stands up to wind and storms. Brick and stone veneer last for many years and resist rain and snow. Insulated cladding helps keep your home comfy in hot or cold weather.

If you are not sure what to pick, ask a local builder or architect. They can help you choose the best cladding for your weather, money, and style.

You have many choices when you want something other than fibre cement cladding. Each option has its own strengths. Think about your climate, budget, and style. Ask yourself what matters most—easy care, eco-friendliness, or a modern look. Try to see samples or talk with a local expert before you decide. Your perfect cladding is out there!

FAQ

What is the safest alternative to fiber cement cladding?

You could use MgO boards or Weathertex. These do not make dangerous dust when you put them in. MgO boards stop fire and water. Weathertex is made from natural hardwood. Both are safe for your home.

Can I install cladding alternatives myself?

You can put up PVC panels, composite cladding, or foam backer boards with simple tools. If you pick brick, stone, or metal, you might need a professional. Always read the manufacturer’s instructions before you begin.

Which cladding lasts the longest?

Brick and stone veneer last the most years. Metal siding and composite cladding are also very strong. If you want cladding that handles weather and time, these are good choices.

Are any alternatives eco-friendly?

Weathertex and FSC-certified wood are great for the earth. Composite cladding with recycled parts is also good. Look for green labels when you buy.

How do I choose the right cladding for my climate?

Think about the weather where you live. Metal siding is good for windy or seaside places. Brick and stone are best for rain and snow. Insulated cladding keeps your house comfy in hot or cold weather.