When Natalie and Aaron bought their 1940s colonial in Sacramento’s Curtis Park neighborhood, they knew the exterior needed love. The original wood siding had warped with time, peeling paint exposed weathered planks, and drafts crept in through every seam. But the couple didn’t just want new siding—they wanted something elegant, enduring, and timeless.
That’s when they discovered Cement Fiber Clapboard – A Durable, Sustainable Siding Option.
The Search for the Perfect Siding Solution
Natalie was drawn to traditional clapboard styles, but Aaron—ever the practical thinker—worried about maintenance and weather resistance. Sacramento summers can be scorching, while winters bring steady rains. The siding needed to withstand both.
After consulting with several contractors, they learned that fiber cement clapboard siding checked all the boxes:
✔ It mimicked the look of painted wood, down to the grain.
✔ It offered unmatched durability—resistant to fire, moisture, pests, and rot.
✔ It required little maintenance and held color well over time.
✔ And most importantly, it brought their home’s charm back to life.
💡 Design Tip: Cement fiber clapboard siding comes in a wide range of colors and textures. For a colonial revival, classic white with black trim makes a striking and refined statement.
What Makes Fiber Cement Clapboard Siding a Luxury Choice?
Luxury in siding isn’t about flash—it’s about enduring quality, high design, and intelligent material choice. Fiber cement clapboard siding offers all three:
✔ Architectural Versatility – Perfect for historic homes, new builds, and everything in between.
✔ Fire Resistance – A growing concern in California, fiber cement is non-combustible.
✔ Dimensional Stability – No swelling or shrinking with weather changes.
✔ Paint Longevity – Factory-painted options last up to 15 years without fading.
✔ Sustainability – Made with sand, cement, cellulose fibers, and minimal VOC emissions.
💡 Pro Tip: Pair this siding with natural stone or cedar details for a sophisticated, layered exterior.
Check Our Recent Projects
Siding Installation: From Weather-Worn to Wow
Aaron and Natalie worked with a local contractor who specialized in siding – cement fiber (clapboard) installations. Over the course of three weeks, their home was carefully wrapped, insulated, and transformed:
✔ Old siding was safely removed and exterior sheathing repaired.
✔ A moisture barrier and foam board were installed for added efficiency.
✔ Each clapboard piece was precision-cut and secured with corrosion-resistant fasteners.
✔ Seams were sealed, trim was added, and joints caulked clean.
✔ A factory finish in “Pearl Gray” brought it all together.
The results? A refreshed colonial with crisp lines, elegant symmetry, and a finish that could rival any new build. Their story mirrors elements seen in the James Hardie Siding Project in Oakland, CA.
Cost Considerations and Long-Term Value
While fiber cement clapboard siding carries a higher upfront cost than vinyl or engineered wood, its value becomes clear with time:
✔ Average Installation Cost: $10.50 – $13.50 per sq. ft. (labor + material)
✔ Average Lifespan: 30 to 50 years with minimal upkeep
✔ ROI: Up to 78% return on investment for upscale siding replacement (per Remodeling Magazine)
💡 Cost-Saving Tip: Choosing a pre-finished color can reduce painting and labor costs post-installation. For broader comparisons, see The Ultimate Guide to Siding Replacement: Boosting Your Home’s Exterior.
Final Thoughts: Is Fiber Cement Clapboard Siding Right for You?
For Natalie and Aaron, the choice was more than aesthetic—it was an investment in their home’s legacy. Their story is one of transformation: from outdated and weather-worn to elegant, efficient, and enduring.
If you’re looking to elevate your home’s exterior with a blend of historic style and modern resilience, fiber cement clapboard siding is a worthy contender. It’s not just siding—it’s a signature.
