Does Fiber Cement Siding Need to Be Painted: Expert Advice on Maintenance

Siding Pros
Sep 7
3 min read

Working with a skilled Spokane siding contractor team can help you understand that fiber cement siding maintenance is a key part of home ownership. This guide explains why painting fiber cement siding is important and how to do it correctly. You'll learn about the benefits of painting, proper preparation steps, paint selection, and application methods. We'll also cover how to maintain your painted siding over time and spot signs that repainting is needed. These tips will help you keep your home's exterior looking great and protected from weather damage.

Benefits of Painting Fiber Cement Siding

Painting fiber cement siding protects it from weather damage and keeps your home looking fresh. A good paint job creates a barrier against rain, snow, and UV rays that can cause the material to deteriorate. You can choose from a variety of colors to match your style and enhance your home's curb appeal. Paint also helps prevent small cracks and chips from getting worse over time. Regular painting saves money by extending the life of your siding and avoiding costly repairs.

Proper Preparation Before Painting

Getting your siding ready for paint is the most important step for lasting results.

Follow these key preparation steps:

Clean the Surface Thoroughly: Wash the siding with water and mild soap to remove dirt, dust, and mildew.
Repair any Damage: Check for cracks or holes and fill them with quality exterior caulk before painting.
Prime the Surface: Use a primer made specifically for fiber cement to help the paint stick better and last longer.

Choosing the Right Paint for Fiber Cement

Select high-quality exterior acrylic latex paint for optimal results on fiber cement siding. This type of paint handles weather changes well and sticks properly to the surface. Look for paint that resists fading and mildew growth over time. A satin or semi-gloss finish works best because it's easier to clean and provides better protection. Always check that the paint label says it's safe to use on fiber cement materials.

Techniques for Painting Fiber Cement Siding

Use the right methods to get a smooth, long-lasting paint job on your siding.

Here are three key techniques:

Cleaning and Preparing the Surface: Remove all dirt and loose paint with soap, water, and a scrub brush before you start painting.
Priming the Surface: Apply primer designed for cement surfaces to help the paint bond correctly with the siding.
Paint Application: Use quality exterior paint and apply it evenly with a brush, roller, or sprayer according to the manufacturer's directions.

Maintaining Painted Fiber Cement Over Time

Inspect your painted siding at least once a year for any areas that require attention. Look for spots where paint is peeling, cracking, or wearing thin from sun exposure. Resolve these issues promptly by sanding the damaged area, applying primer if necessary, and then repainting the area. Pay special attention to the south side of your house, which gets the most sun damage. Addressing small problems promptly prevents more significant, costly repairs later.

Signs That Repainting Is Needed

Watch for these three warning signs that tell you it's time to repaint your fiber cement siding:

Peeling Paint: When paint starts to flake off, the protective coating is failing and needs to be replaced.
Cracking: Paint cracks allow water to seep underneath, which can damage the siding material over time.
Fading: Faded paint looks unappealing and indicates that the coating is no longer protecting your siding from weather damage.