I’ve done a number of searches, but am not seeing a real clear answer to my question. I’m planning to shingle over the painted sheathing that is currently my front porch wall. About 200 square feet. Well protected from rain and sun (eastern exposure).
I’ve been going back and forth about whether to do fiber cement (Hardie or Certainteed) or cedar (I’m thinking prefinished white cedar). The rest of the house is either brick or white-painted clapboards, and I want the shingles to be painted or stained white.
I’ve never shingled a wall in my life, but I’m a decent woodworker and DIYer.
I’m really struggling with which way to go. Any recommendations?
Replies
Totally your preference. I don't think maintenance is a big issue under a porch. Some people look at fiber cement and think it's the greatest thing since sliced bread. I think it looks fake. But that's just me.
Real wood is much more pleasant to work with too.
I vote for the Cedar.
Will be a heck of a lot easier for you to install and I really think it looks nicer.
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As a guy who just clad his house with Hardi, I'd go for the cedar, especially with such a small area (inexpensive) that is protected from the elements. The fact that it is a porch means that people will see it close up, and I agree with the other poster that Hardi, while it is good for what it does, looks fake.
Besides, you'll enjoy doing the shingles yourself.
Scott.
Another vote for cedar. It also smells a lot nicer when you cut it, as opposed to the dust cloud you get from hardie.
~ Ted W ~
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Edited 4/15/2009 10:20 pm by Ted W.
You raise another good point....he's going to need to buy/rent something to cut the Hardi with, and likely already has the tools for the cedar work.Scott.
I don't do much Hardi, a couple of squares usually, but I just use a circular saw.
Yeah, I guess for that small job you could use a regular blade. Gross dust though. I sprung for the $80 four tooth Hitachi blade which makes a difference, but is still gross.....I also got the Malco shears which are the bees knees.Scott.
Dust? Funny guy! If only it were dry enough for dust here.
unless you are allergic to cedar, like me.
I always thought I was only allergic to pencil cedar. I officially found out the hard way when making a cedar canoe. It sucks, but it won't stop me from using it when absolutely necessary
For me, that would be like being alergic to food! I don't do much decks or siding these days, but I use it a lot in my home shop, making cedar chests for my fambly members.~ Ted W ~
Cheap Tools! - MyToolbox.netMeet me at House & Builder!
unless you are allergic to cedar, like me>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Here is another one. I am also allergic to cedar. I just love the days when I have to use. I use double dose of claritan on those gays.
read your post... you made a funny.
me try!!!!!!!>G<
You know how you can tell non-allergy-sufferers? They don't know how to spell clarotin.
~ Ted W ~
Cheap Tools! - MyToolbox.netMeet me at House & Builder!
Edited 4/16/2009 8:32 pm by Ted W.
Cedar allergies are a real pain because they get progressively worse with continued exposure. All the old mill workers here slowly developed them. I'm becoming more sensitive each year. Very annoying.
Fibercement doesn't burn. Here in California, fires try to burn us up regularly so I would use the fibercement. Just something to consider if appropriate for your situation.
Eric
cedar, finish with Sikiens, need some warmth to set off all that white ..
prepainted cedar in a protected location like that will last your lifetime.
Unless you barbecue right up against it and sparks fly
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If it's a sitting porch make it cedar.