It is no secret that the decking industry has changed dramatically over the years. This change can be seen in many different shapes and forms, but one of the more interesting trends to emerge is fiber cement decking. Fiber cement decking is a new type of material for durable and stylish outdoor decks that offers some significant advantages over traditional hardwood or composites. Unlike other materials, this option does not require any sanding or finishing after installation, making it an attractive choice if you are looking to save time and effort while being able to entertain and stun with good looks and great functionality. Add into that they are resistant to damage from moisture and termites and you’ve got yourself a very viable alternative to the other decking options in James Hardie Hardiedeck as an exceptionally durable cement-based decking that is fast and easy to install.
James Hardie Hardiedeck Is Especially Suited To Australia
Fiber cement decking boards can be a great option for situations such as the harsh Australian climate as they do not splinter or shrink, nor do they warp or rot from moisture.
Moreover, they are long-lasting and versatile, are bushfire approved, and termite resistant. When it comes to all-important aesthetics, you can even tint them to match your current home’s colour.
You might not even think of fibre cement as a decking option because until quite recently, it was mainly used as trim and panel products such as backerboard and siding. Turns out though, that fibre cement decking is an ideal choice if worry-free and low maintenance is high on your list of priorities for your deck. Compared to timber decking they really are install and forget.
If you’re on the fence about whether or not fiber cement might be right for your home’s next project, read on below to find out more about what makes it so special.
Fiber Cement Decking Board Requires Low Upkeep
One of the biggest drawbacks to using traditional hardwood or composite decking is that it requires regular upkeep in order to maintain its good looks. Both types of materials will warp and scratch if they are not taken care of, which can make them look old very quickly. Fiber cement does not require any sort of oiling or finishing to keep it looking nice though; after installation, you won’t need to worry about making sure that your new deck stays clean because fiber cement doesn’t tolerate dirt like other materials do. This means that instead of spending hours every spring cleaning up stains and polishing for a smooth finish, homeowners who choose this option can sit back and relax while their decks remain pristine all year long!
Fibre Cement Decking Does Not Warp, Split, Rot Or Fade
This material has another advantage over wood too, which is that it doesn’t warp or split and is very moisture resistant. The beauty of fiber cement decking is that you get all the benefits of wood without any of the traditional drawbacks, making it a truly unique product in today’s market. It provides a natural look that is similar to real hardwood, but because it does not require any sort of oiling or maintenance you can rest assured knowing that your deck will always be looking its best!
Fibre Cement Decking Results In Overall Cost Savings
Fiber cement decking offers great value for homeowners who are on a budget. While hardwood can cost up to $15 per square foot and composites over $20, this material only costs around half of that at about $12-$13 per square foot installed! It is true that it does have higher upfront installation fees than other options because you will need an electric saw in order to cut the boards into the proper length. However, once they’re down installing them yourself or hiring someone else isn’t going to be much more expensive than any other type of deck would be so overall you’ll still come out ahead.
Fibre Cement Decking Can Be Colour Matched To Your Home
One big advantage that fiber cement has over traditional hardwood is the fact that it can be colour matched to your home, making it look even more natural. While this may seem like a small detail at first, matching the colours of your deck boards to those of your siding or roof really adds an element of sophistication and polish to any exterior space.
You can create a range of distinct looks and textures with fibre cement decking. Neutral hues like grey, as well as a transparent seal, are ideal for modern homes and may help to build an indoor-outdoor continuity.
Fiber Cement Decking Is Long Wearing
Fiber cement is also long-wearing, which means that you won’t need to replace it anytime soon after installation. The material has an expected lifespan of around 15 years or more with only minor maintenance required during this time.
As interest in environmentally friendly building materials continues to grow, fiber cement decking is quickly becoming a popular option among homeowners looking for something new and exciting without sacrificing quality or affordability.
Fibre Cement Decking Can Withstand Weather Extremes
Fiber cement is also very strong and can withstand weather extremes, which makes it ideal for homes that are located in areas with hot or humid climates. Composite decks may warp if they get too wet because the wood will absorb water instead of repelling it like fiber cement does so this material is often a better choice than traditional hardwood even if you live somewhere where there’s snow.
Fibre Cement Decking Is Good For Fire Prone Areas
During bushfire season, timber in and around your house is extremely hazardous. Timber decks, in particular, are popular installations that can put your home at significant risk, particularly if the wood fractures and bends with age, allowing embers to nest.
Fiber-cement decking is less likely to suffer damage than other materials. The heat buildup is slower with fiber-cement material than it is with other types of wood decking, which means it won’t warp or splinter when exposed to the high Australian summer heat.
Hardie Deck Review
The reality is that in Australia, fibre cement decking is synonymous with Hardie Deck. HardieDeck fibre cement decking has an FZ jointer, making it a fantastic choice in areas prone to severe bushfires. There will be no more gaps, and there’ll be no danger of hot embers from a burning bushfire lodging in your deck.
The decking used in the YouTube video above is made from James Hardie’s premium fibre cement. Get it in 3000 x 196 x 19mm Decking Board.
The system combines specially machined 19mm thick fibre cement decking boards with an aluminium fast-track fixing system that features concealed joints.
Conclusion
Consider fiber cement decking for a deck that will last a long time, is low-maintenance, and is an attractive extension of your home.
You can choose from a smooth finish or boards that have realistic wood grain and texture and come in a variety of colors. They’ll complement any house and last a very long time.
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