What is Hardie Board Siding?
Composition and manufacturing process
Fiber cement boards, including Hardie board, are made using a specific manufacturing process. The process involves mixing cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, along with water and other additives, to create a slurry. The slurry is then poured onto a conveyor belt and passed through a forming machine, which compresses the mixture into the desired thickness and shape.
After the fiber cement mixture is formed into the appropriate shape, it is then cured in a high-temperature kiln to strengthen the material and remove any excess moisture. The curing process can take several hours, depending on the size and thickness of the fiber cement board.
Once the curing process is complete, the fiber cement board is trimmed to the desired size and shape using special cutting tools. The boards may also be sanded or painted at this stage, depending on the manufacturer’s specifications.
The final product is a durable and low-maintenance building material that is resistant to damage from fire, moisture, and insects. Fiber cement boards are known for their strength, durability, and versatility, making them an excellent choice for a wide range of building applications.
History of Fiber Cement Siding
The history of fiber cement siding can be traced back to the early 1900s, when Austrian engineer Ludwig Hatschek developed a process for producing a type of fiber cement called Eternit. This material was made from a mixture of cement, asbestos fibers, and water, and it quickly gained popularity as a durable and fire-resistant building material.
However, concerns about the health hazards of asbestos led to a decline in the use of Eternit in the 1980s. This prompted companies to develop new types of fiber cement that did not contain asbestos.
In the 1980s, Australian entrepreneur James Hardie developed a new type of fiber cement siding that was made from a mixture of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. This new material was stronger and more durable than Eternit, and it quickly gained popularity as a building material in Australia and the United States.
Today, fiber cement siding is a popular choice for homeowners and builders who want a durable and low-maintenance product that can withstand harsh weather conditions. It comes in a variety of colors and finishes, and it can be painted to match any home’s exterior. James Hardie Industries, the company behind Hardie Board siding, has since become a global leader in siding solutions.