Do you know that you can learn how to repaint water damaged fiber cement and do it yourself? Usually, these kinds of work require professional help, but it would be more convenient if you already know what to do.
Aside from the money you can save, you can also be more specific with the color and details you want to incorporate into your fiber cement structure.
What Is Fiber Cement?
Fiber cement is a popular material used in different structures such as roofing, exterior wall, siding, and more. It is made up of cement, cellulose fibers, sand, and water.
Many people prefer this material because it can resist various natural elements. This includes severe winds, insects, rodents, fire, UV rays, and other climate conditions that usually damage the façade.
One notable thing about this is that it is relatively heavier than other construction materials, but fiber cement is more durable. Vinyl, wood, and aluminum require constant attention because they are prone to rotting other forms of damage. However, there is a disadvantage to fiber cement as well.
1. Maintenance
Fiber cement needs to be painted after a considerable amount of time to maintain its appearance and quality. Some manufacturers provide a 15-year warranty covering water damage repair, including cracking, peeling, and chipping. However, these warranties often have specific coverage details that won’t always accommodate every homeowner’s situation.
2. Moisture
Fiber cement is water-resistant, but it mainly refers to standing water. Even small amounts of water accumulate on the surface can lead to rotting, panel damage, and mold growth.
The installation also plays a significant part in this. Poorly installed fiber cement can leave gaps where water can penetrate when it rains and damage the wall’s internal structure.
How Often Should Fiber Cement Be Painted?
Sidings made from fiber cement can last for as long as 50 years if it is maintained well. However, the paints can only last for at least 10 to 15 years and require a repaint to keep their pleasing appearance. You can also repaint if you think your siding needs a makeover or if the pain is chipping due to various occurrences.
You can always call someone to paint the fiber cement, but you can also do it yourself if you think you already know what to do. In this case, you will need a ladder to reach high places. You will also need repair kits to cover holes and cracks and the paint, which only costs around $15.
Does Fiber Cement Rot?
Rot is the most common form of water damage and perhaps the most damaging of all as well. It spreads quickly and can damage the nearby structure easily. This can lead to an expensive repair and replacement if not maintained well.
Fortunately, fiber cement is not that susceptible to rot. None of its main ingredients absorb excessive moisture, making it highly resistant to water. It is also impenetrable by termites and other insects that can damage the structure of the walls.
As long as the material is installed properly, there are little to no problems with it. Upon installation, professional help is required to prevent future trouble.
What Kind Of Paint Works Best With Fiber Cement?
It would be best to use acrylic latex paint or 100% acrylic paint to make it more resistant to water damage. Two coats of these will be enough to keep the appearance good-looking as if it’s new. Make sure to cover the holes first for a smoother finish.
Repainting Water Damage On Fiber Cement
It is always best to get help for home construction and repair, but repainting is a relatively easier task to do. If you prefer to do it, here are the things that you should put in mind for preparations and the steps to follow.
Before starting to repaint the fiber cement, it is essential to prepare the surface first. This will improve the finish of the paint and extend its life.
Step #1. Clean the fiber cement. Most paint develops chalking when it is often exposed to excessive sunlight.
Remove this through pressure washing, and it will also remove the dust and molds that reside on the surface. You can also sand the fiber cement before rinsing to help the new paint last.
Step #2. Re-seal the seams with a powerful sealant to prevent water and moisture from penetrating the joints. The warranty usually covers the caulking, but if it is older than 15 years, it would be best to replace it alongside the repainting job.
Step #3. After the seals are dry, you can now start painting the fiber cement. Use high-quality exterior grade acrylic latex paint.
Make sure not to use oil-based stains and paints because they take more time to dry. They would also react chemically to harsh climates and develop discoloration over time. Once the first coat is done, wait for it to dry before painting the second coat.
Additional Tips For Repainting
- Apply the paint evenly across the surface. The thickness of the paint will also be significant in the life of the paint layer.
- Keep track of the time of the repaint to determine when it will need a new paint job.
- Use a UV-resistant coat after the second coating to protect it from the sun and extend the beautiful appearance of the paint color.
Conclusion
Learning how to repaint water damaged fiber cement does not require extensive skills and effort. As long as you know how to layer paint evenly, you can finish the work nicely. Always keep in mind to remove all of the dirt so the finish will be clean and smooth.