It was around 1999 in Houston TX when Houstonians started hearing about a siding product called Fiber Cement/Hardie Siding on the am home improvement radio station 750 Ktrh.  As many will attest, Vinyl Siding was king and the most requested siding product in the Texas market (and across the USA).

Current Results says Houston Texas  average yearly precipitation we receive nearly 4′ (48″) of precipitation every year and due to this and a great many of the homes here built using wood or masonite siding, homeowners ended up with siding often failing. This failure was due to the lack of painting and upkeep required for these types of siding products. Many Houston homeowners were looking at replacing the rotting wood or masonite siding on their homes and at the time, vinyl siding was the option most commonly selected.  This was until some of the local radio home improvement guys started getting paid to pitch a new siding product called, “Fiber Cement Siding“.  At this time, not much was known about the fiber cement product other than it was a cement-based siding product and would need paint application.

Move Over Vinyl . . . Fiber Cement/Hardie Siding Takes The Lead

The advertising campaigns and pitching paid off as this new siding product was pitched and heard more and more on the radio with boasts of what a better a product it was compared to vinyl siding. Homeowners in the metro Houston area started taking notice, local contractors were starting to pitch this new Fiber Cement Siding product and homeowners started jumping on the HardiPlank made by James Hardie Building Products band wagon as the greatest new product on the market. My company, Texas Home Exteriors was selling and installing Hardie Siding as well.

Fiber Cement HardiePlank Siding

Contractors in this part of the country are known for taking the path of  least resistance, so when homeowners started asking for this new siding product, the home exteriors companies and siding contractors alike started pitching (selling) the fiber cement siding product to homeowners throughout southeast Texas like crazy.

Fiber Cement Hardie Jumps From 5% Market Share to 90%

Within the period of about 5-6 years, I personally watched as the Fiber Cement Siding market went from being a mere 5% in 1999 to a jump of nearly 90% by 2005. To survive in the Houston TX siding market as a siding contractor, any company installing siding would or should have been offering the Fiber Cement product by this time.

The City of Houston TX – Texas Home Exteriors

Needless to say, many contractors did NOT like pitching a product to homeowners that needed painting and upkeep especially following an easy upkeep product like vinyl.

However, if you were to survive in the Houston Texas metro market buying into fiber cement, you would need to participate if you wanted to stay in the business of siding installation!

When Repainting Becomes a Reality

In this day and age many homeowners do not want the continued maintenance of repainting their home or changing out their roof every 10-15 years for that matter, like we have found is needed here in the south. Let’s face it, we are all busy and who wants to have to deal with this, the time, the money, the liability?

Homeowners in the Houston metro area (as well as across the country), now with the realization that the siding they just had installed and painted a few years ago needs to be repainted again and again and/or repaired.

This meant, getting bids, hiring a contractor, dealing with the HOA, getting colors approved (again), the mess, cost and dealing with the contractor telling you…”that is old paint on your brick” or . . . “it is peeling again because of the old paint was not removed or installed properly”. Yep, we have heard one or more of these scenarios and no fun!

The Issue of VOCs and Paint

Volatile organic compound VOCs are regulated by law, especially indoors, where concentrations are the highest. Harmful VOCs typically are not acutely toxic, but have compounding long-term health effects. Because the concentrations are usually low and the symptoms slow to develop, research into VOCs and their effects is difficult for workers installing products on your Houston Texas home exterior. There’s also the issue of silica dust cause when the fiber cement is cut and its harmful effect on the workers. 

Peeling Paint Long After The Siding Crews Are Gone

This is an issue that many do not think about until the crews are long gone and the reality of peeling paint has settled in. This is the time when homeowners consider if they are just going to simply paint over that old paint again, or what to do next . . .

Paint Peeling Off Of Fiber Cement Hardie Siding

Paint Peeling Off Of Fiber Cement hardie Siding

Finding yourself with questions like, “really, to only to have it peel off again?”; “How do I get every square inch of that old paint off of my home?” amongst many other concerns racing through the thought process.  If you don’t believe me that the paint might peel from your new fiber cement than take a look at these photos because it does and possibly could.  The images above show the reality of how paint can peel off from fiber cement siding just a few years after installation and painting of the siding product.

The results of this can vary depending on which paint was applied as well as how the surface was treated or prepped. Fiber cement siding is made up of a combination of Portland cement, ground sand, cellulose fiber and select additives which holds paint exceptionally well. The siding is available either unprimed or as pre-primed panels.

Improperly treated, cement-based products can become mildew magnets. A high quality exterior acrylic masonry primer, such as Sherwin-Williams Loxon Masonry Primer, will fortify the siding’s mildew and efflorescence resistance as well as caulk at the butt joints and applying the finish coat or coats. However many contractors to do not take the time to do what is needed to prevent the paint from peeling.

Foundation Problems – Notorious In Houston TX

Another issue with fiber cement siding is that it does not flex and move with the home. Anyone in Houston TX will tell you that sooner or later, either you or someone that you know, will deal with foundation problems.

With a moving home and siding product that is too rigged, a homeowner is asking for trouble. This can lead to problems like cracks that allow for water to leak into and behind the siding and trim causing, mold, mildew and eventually, rot.

Here you can clearly see how this fiber cement trim and siding has cracked and separated. I personally took this photo at a west Houston Texas home.

The photo on the right clearly shows the results of a home that has apparently had some movement.  There is no wonder that rigid siding and trim, like fiber cement, carries only a 15 year trim and 30 year siding warranty. With no movement flexibility in the fiber cement siding, your home can end up with cracks like the ones in the image on the right.

Not All Fiber Cement Hardie Jobs Have Issues

When a homeowner is considering siding products, it is important to be aware of some of the POSSIBLE problems associated with the products they are considering. Do your research and learn about the possible problems associated with siding products whether you are considering fiber cement siding or any other siding product.

What About Vinyl Siding Option for Houston Texas?

Vinyl Siding has it’s own set of problems, however; these are minimal and vinyl siding has been on the market for a good many years. This product is easy to install, low-maintenance, a great price and great option for Houston Texas homeowners.

Vinyl Siding Sales Up 15% 2014 1st Quarter in Houston Texas

Most of the siding supply houses in Houston TX are reporting that Vinyl Siding sales are up 10 to 15% over 2013 espechley KayCan a manufacturer of Vinyl Siding. As homeowners become more educated and are researching products on the internet, they know more about the products and reported problems and are able to make more informed and smarter choices. It seems many homeowners are finding that the old saying is true . . . “Vinyl is Final”

KAYCAN OCEAN PARK ULTRA VINYL “LAP SIDING”
What Does Vinyl Siding Offer Over Fiber Cement Hardie Siding?

• Lower Cost To Install
• Never Paint Again
• Energy Efficient
• Energy Star Rated
• Extra Insulation
• Quieter Home
• Lifetime Warranty
• By Far, The Best Return On Your Dollar!

Additional Benefits Include:
1. Heavy thickness for exceptional impact resistance.
2. Beautiful appearance – rough cedar wood-grain.
3. Double-thick nail hem windload resistance of up
to 213 mph.
4. Self-aligning locking system for quick, easy installation = straighter walls.
5. Double-sized insulated panels means up to 45% less noise and significantly reduced air
infiltration for a quieter, more energy efficient home.
6. Larger panel profile adds rigidity and dramatic shadow line.
7. Duratron UV technology for superior weatherability and color retention.
8. KayCan Ocean Park ULTRA siding’s premium color is consistent all the way through.

KAYCAN MONTEBELLO VINYL “LOG SIDING”

Rustic Charm ​KayCan Montebello Vinyl Log Siding will give you the rustic look and distinctive warmth of log siding with added durability and resistance.
• Montebello log siding wall system has all
the distinctive warmth, rustic style and beauty of
log siding with the strength and durability of vinyl.
​ • ​Montebello’s low gloss natural
wood grain appearance has been built to last as the
siding won’t dent, crack or split.
• Montebello resists mold, rot and mildew and
incorporates ​Perform Guard patented foam additive
for insect and termite resistance.

Montebello is the low maintenance alternative to real wood  requiring no painting, no staining and no wood preservatives means more time to enjoy your home and the things that you enjoy doing the most. 

1. Heavy gauge siding adds comfort to your home.​
2. Precisely contoured foam underlayment adds
rigidity and superior impact resistance.​
3. LineLoc panel locking system locks panels
together for greater rigidity on the wall.​
4. Ultra-Vinyl UV vinyl technology guarantees
superior weatherability and color retention.

​I hope you found this information helpful as you consider home exterior siding choices. Both Fiber Cement and Vinyl Siding are great home exterior products. The choice is yours to make, I am happy to provide information and facts about products and to answer any additional questions you might have, share your thoughts and questions in the comments below and I will respond timely.

Free Siding Estimate

Many Texas homeowners would like to choose a roof that’s not too expensive, requires no maintenance and lasts a lifetime. What they are finding is most roofing shingles are replaced, or at least repaired, every ten to twelve years in southeast Texas due to the intense heat and lengthy sun-drenched summers.

By carefully choosing re-roofing material, you can reduce the cost of replacing your roof as well as increase the life of your Houston and Austin TX roof.  What you will find is that in the long run, you’ll use less building material, fill up less space in the landfill with old discarded materials and have a great roof that will last for years or even a lifetime with some of the available options.

Lighter colored surface or a material selections won’t absorb heat from the sun light the darker colors so this alone will significantly reduce the cooling needs of the home or building. When your attic stays cooler, your cooling bills are reduced. We will post more on “Cool Roofing” shingles in a future blog.

Popular Roofing Materials

Below is a quick overview of some of the most popular types of roofing. Remember that cost alone does not determine quality of the roofing shingle and not all of these products will meet the specific needs of your home or building. By carefully selecting the material that is best suited for your location, a style you like, ensuring it is installed properly by a professional roofing company and by performing occasional modest maintenance, your roof can function properly for 20 to 50 years or even longer!

Composition/Asphalt Roofing Shingles by GAF Timberline

Composition Roofing Shingles

Asphalt and composition roof shingles are the most common choice for a clean look at an affordable price. Some of the higher quality versions which are made from asphalt or fiberglass shingles offer a more durable option, we’ll discuss this more in depth later.

Bob Vila reveals that Composite Shingles come in a large variety of types, brands and colors. The options are versatile, adapt easily to different applications, are relatively easy to install and in some applications can even be nailed in place over an existing roof. This type of shingle is low-maintenance and can be walked across without damaging the material. Most brands also offer Class A fire protection and can even be recycled.

The negative side of composition shingles is that they don’t have the lifespan of other roofing materials like tile or metal, they don’t offer the dimensional look of tile or wood shakes, and there is the possibility of them blowing off in high winds. At Texas Home Exteriors, we use GAF Roofing Shingles with the GAF roofing warranty. 

Wood Shake Shingles

Wikipedia – “wood shingles are thin, tapered pieces of wood primarily used to cover roofs and walls of buildings to protect them from the weather”. Wood shake shingles offer a natural look with a lot of character. Because of variations like color, width, thickness or cut of the wood, no two shake roofs will ever be the same. Wood offers some energy benefits too as it helps in insulation of the attic as it allows the house to breathe by allowing the air to circulate through the small openings under the felt rows on which wooden shingles are laid.

A Great Natural look. Wood Roofs require proper maintenance and is much more costly to replace.

The drawback to a wood shake roof is that it demands proper maintenance and repair or it will not last as long as other roofing products. Keep in mind that mold, rot, and insects can be a problem with this type of roofing as well. The life cycle cost of a shake roof may be high, and old shakes cannot be recycled.

Another drawback is that installing wood shakes is more complicated and costly than roofing with composite shingles and the quality of finished roof depends on the experience of the contractor as well as the caliber of shakes used. The Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy writes in their post about wood shake roofing that the best shakes come from heartwood of large old cedar trees which can be difficult to find anymore thus adding to the cost of this option. Note that some contractors maintain that shakes made from the outer wood of smaller cedars which are the usual source today are less uniform and more subject to twisting and warping causing them not to last as long.

Roofing Tiles

Roofing tile is a good choice for homes with Southwestern, Italian, Spanish Mission, Terracotta designs or even for homes with a modern, clean look.

Tile lasts a long time with an expected lifespan greater than the material on which the roofing rests. Tile will not rot or burn and it cannot be harmed by insects. It requires little maintenance and comes in a variety of colors, types, styles and brands.

Terracotta Roofing tiles have a long lifespan, but are heavy and may require extra roof support. Additionally they are fragile and can break if walked on.

The biggest drawback to tile by far is its weight. Depending on the material used to make it, tile can be very heavy, so heavy that extra roof support may be required. Originally made from clay, new tiles are being made from lighter materials and lightweight metal tiles can be installed over existing roofs. However, keep in mind that with some new materials color is added only on the surface of the tile which can fade over time.

Also be aware that some types of tile are fragile, so walking on them can and will often break them thus making it more difficult to accomplish maintenance like painting or cleaning rain gutters and fireplaces. Initial installation can be complicated and tile can cost more than other roofing materials but it does have a very nice look.

Slate Shingles

Slate Roofing Shingles like Davinci are actual shingle-like slivers of rock commonly can be seen on more upscale homes. Although slate is by far a more expensive choice, it offers a very natural look and can be laid out in a variety of patterns.

The benefits of slate are identical to those of tile with a very long lifespan, good fire protection, low maintenance and an invulnerability to rot and insects. This type of roofing comes in a good selection of sizes and colors, although colors are limited to those found in nature.

Like tile, slate can be very heavy and sometimes will require expensive extra support. It is also very breakable, enough that walking on it is difficult for a non-professional and complicates tasks such as rooftop maintenance, gutter cleaning and painting but again is a very lovely looking option.

Concrete Roofing Tiles

Concrete is a roofing material now commonly used. Concrete Tile Roof Shingles, simulated wood shakes, lighter-weight tiles and concrete panels are being manufactured from a variety of fiber-reinforced cement products. Some are coated with plastics, enamels or thin metals with some even containing recycled materials. Although the products themselves are not yet recyclable, they are a good choice for durability and resource efficiency.

Concrete roofing material shows an interlocking greystone colored roofing tile

The advantages of concrete roofing vary from product to product, but generally they all have a long lifespan, require low maintenance, offer good fire protection and are resistant to rot and insects.

Concrete mixed with cellulose can mimic the appearance of wood shakes while improving on the durability and fire protection that real wood affords. It can approximate the look of clay tile or slate while mitigating the structural problems caused by the weight of the real material.

Concrete is more expensive than some roofing materials and early types of concrete roofing experienced problems with the material curling, breaking and changing color. Technology has improved, however and these problems have mostly been overcome. Style and color choices are expanding and by mixing the cement with additives, manufacturers are producing lighter and lighter products.

Metal Roofs

Metal Roofing is increasing in popularity and once again back in style. In the late 1700s, zinc, copper and lead were the most popular materials used for roofing and the application of choice for such famous historic buildings as the Washington Monument and Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello both with metal roofs.

Metal Shingles with the look of Shake Roofing Shingles

Standing-Seam Steel Roofing is the most popular residential metal roofing on the market today (the term standing-seam describes the upturned edge of one metal panel that connects it to adjacent sections, creating distinctive vertical lines and a trendy historical look).

Stone-Coated Metal Roofing Shingles are pressure formed with an aluminum-zinc alloy coated steel with an acrylic bonded stone chip finish. The stone coating resists fading and UV penetration and is a beautiful roofing choice. We have used both Decra and Metro Stone Coated Metal Roofing on roofs in the Houston and Austin Texas metro areas.

Metal roofs can also be made to resemble wood shakes, clay tiles, shingles and Victorian metal tiles. Aluminum or coated steel is formed into individual shingles, tiles or into modular panels four feet long that mimic a row of shingles or tiles and look very nice.

Metal roofs are durable, fire-retardant and almost maintenance-free. They are also energy-efficient reflecting heat and blocking its transfer into the attic. Research by the Florida Solar Energy Center in 1985 showed that metal adsorbed 34 percent less heat than asphalt shingles (believe it or not) and homeowners switching to metal roofing reported saving up to 20 percent on their energy bills. Be sure not to make common metal roofing mistakes by choosing a qualified roofing contractor for your metal roof installation.

Although a lengthy post, there is certainly a lot more detail yet that could be shared about roofing choices, but I hope you have a better understanding of the choices as it is my intention to provide information to help homeowners and those interested in roofing and shingle trends and available roofing options across the U.S.

If your home resides in the Texas coastal wind zone, click on the link for more in depth roofing installation requirements and stay tuned soon for a post on Cool Roofing Shingles and FREE Solar Ventilation!

“For A Home That’s Superior, Call Texas Home Exteriors!”  Call or Text 281.919.6999 Today for FREE Roofing Estimate with NO Pressure and Texas EZ Pay 1% Financing. Thank you for reading our choosing roofing shingles for your home blog post. 

Please leave your comments, questions or suggestion below, we look forward to hearing from you.

Free Texas Roofing Shingle Estimate

The window in the center is a “fixed” non-operable window.  The windows on either side are “quarter arches” and the windows above the doors are transom windows also non-operable.

Replacement Window Choices

Homeowners often inquire about the different window types and choices that are available.   To help clarify these questions, in this post I compiled a shortlist of the basic types.

Many homes are built with basic types of windows  (standard “builders grade” windows) with very few features and pretty much boring. Updating with new replacement windows can make a nondescript home into one that shines with curb and what I call the “wow appeal!”

It is important to know what your options are, what the features are and what they mean before making your window replacement decision.  I am happy to provide you with some insight as your personal window professional and here is some important information you should be aware of about the various window types.

Window Types:

Fixed – This type of window cannot be opened. It is usually inexpensive and does not allow for ventilation.

One sash is operational

Sing hung – This is one of the most common types of “builder’s grade” windows used.  Single-hung means that only one of the window sashes is able to slide up and down and be opened.

Both sashes operational

Double hung  – This is the second most common type of window. This window consists of two sashes that move up and down and can be opened either one at a time or both partially at the same time allowing for even better air circulation than a single hung window provides.

Vertical hinge, cranks

Casement – These windows are common in the northeast USA.  Casement windows are hinged vertically to swing in and out like a door and operate with a crank handle.

Hinged horizontally, crank

Awning – Awning windows are similar to casement windows but are hinged horizontally.

Jalousie – Jalousie windows are horizontally placed narrow strips of glass, lowered by crank. Although out of favor today, they were very popular in the mid-century.

Sliding Windows

Sliding – Sliding windows move along top and bottom tracks. They are also very common in the mid-west USA and can be inexpensive for the most part.

Palladian – A palladian window consists of group of three windows with an arch over the center. These windows have become very popular in the last decade. They provide visual interest and drama to a home.

Picture Window
& Double Hungs

Picture – Picture windows are especially popular in ranch-style homes. They are large fixed windows flanked by two casements or double-hung windows on either side of the picture window.

Transom – These windows are especially popular in Craftsman like homes. They consist of a strip of small horizontal panes set high on a wall and often above an entry door, doorway or over existing operational windows.

Circle Top, Elliptical or Arched

Elliptical or Arched (Circle Top)– These windows are often positioned above double hung or fixed windows in many of today’s new homes adding appeal and personality.

Add Appeal with an Eyebrow

Eyebrow – This window is often positioned above double hung or fixed windows in many of today’s new homes to add appeal and personality.

Protrudes outside of the home

Protrudes out from the home

Bay and Bow – This type of window protrudes from the home that often has a small roof built over it as well as a soffit underneath. They are very common when homeowners upgrade from their older windows in the northeast USA.

As you can see, there are many types of windows available.  The region you live in will often determine the type of window common in your area.  Making a smart choice in window selection can lead to greater appeal, light and energy efficiency for your home for many years.

In future blogs, I will discuss how choosing grid pattern, interior and colors of the window frames can make wonderful enhancements to your home. Additionally I will be providing information on many other fun options for your windows types and choices. Learn more at this link about Energy Efficient Windows and Low-E Glass.

Call or Text for FREE Estimate with NO Pressure 281.919.6999

 Free Replacement Window Estimate

Fig 9 – HardiePlank siding cracked from improper nailing & shrinkage

Hardie Siding Products Nailing Issues

In all my years in home improvement, I have witnessed what works as well as what does not perform well.  I cannot begin to tell you how many HardiePlank (James Hardie) Siding jobs I have come across with face nails and just after a few years are showing cracks in the surface due to the improper nailing procedure that was used. James Hardie is the manufacture and here is the instructions for Hardie Siding Installation for reference.

In our extreme Southeast Texas summer heat and humidity, there will be some expansion and contraction in the James Hardie siding product.

If the HardiePlank Siding is face nailed at the vertical edges (the ends of the plank), this is what could happen (Figure 9 at the right). When HardiePlank is face nailed, it should always be nailed in the main run areas away from vertical edges so cracking does not occur. 

Two Methods of Nailing (fastening) 

Fig 10 – Proper Face Nailing Technique (click to enlarge)

Face Nailing Method

If face nailing should be needed, it should be kept at a minimal distance and away from each end of the plank if possible.  If face nailing should ever be required, for instance, let’s say if a plank is not lying flat, it should be nailed at least ¾” away from either edge (see Figure 10).

Blind Nailing Method

90% of the blind nailing should occur at the top of the lower panel of the siding that is being installed (see Figure 11).

By nailing this way, the nails will also be covered and hidden by the next panel that is installed above it which is more visually appealing.

Fig 11 – Blind nailing procedure diagram (click to enlarge) 

This will ensure that there is no chance of breakage due to expansion and contraction after the HardiePlank crews are long gone.

Voiding The Warranty 

There is also the issue that James Hardie the manufacture of the siding product will void the warranty should the siding be nailed improperly. That is why it is so important to install the product to what the manufacturer specifies and recommends.

It is not uncommon for siding products to be installed incorrectly to varying degrees. Nailing is one of the most important aspects.   

Suggested Galvanized Fasteners  (nails) For Coastal Applications

Fasteners must be corrosion resistant, galvanized fiber cement HardiPlank nails, or stainless steel. Electro-galvanized are acceptable but may exhibit premature corrosion.
Hardie recommends the use of quality, hot dipped galvanized nails.

Stainless Steel fasteners (nails) 

Hardie Siding Installation Job

Stainless steel fasteners are recommended when installing James Hardie products near the ocean, large bodies of water, or in very humid climates. The beauty of properly installing HardiePlank siding will result in no cracking from the installation.

This in turn will provide a HardiePlank exterior siding job that will last for many years to come. This is the kind of siding job that you can expect from Texas Home Exteriors serving the greater southeast Houston east Texas metro area.

We hope that you have enjoyed this post on how to correctly nailing Hardie Siding article. We have 1% Texas EZ Pay 100% Financing with no money down no prepayment penalties  and instant approval! Keep your money in the bank and use ours for your Hardie Siding Project. Thank you for all of us at Texas Home Exteriors! Call or Text for FREE Estimate with NO Pressure 281.919.6999.

Free HardiePlank Siding Estimate