Fiber cement siding over insulating foam board

Carol Friedland, Kleinpeter, Shelly

LaHouse is a display of high-performance building practices to create more sustainable, resilient and healthy homes in the gulf region. The research-based facility is located on LSU's Baton Rouge campus and displays home-building techniques and solutions for Louisiana's unique climate. LaHouse is open weekdays from 10 am to 4:30 p.m. for self-guided tours or can be toured completely virtually.

2x4 wall, cellulose cavity insulation (R 13)

Experience the Lahouse via virtual tour

Fiber cement products are resistant to heat and moisture. The foam insulating board can be nailed in place with washer head nails but should be taped at the seams to ensure air cannot move through.

The wall is framed with traditional 2x4 framing, filled with cellulose cavity insulation. Cellulose cavity insulation is made from wood or paper-based products. It is blown into the cavity in the structural part of the house to slow down the transmission of heat or cold.

Plywood sheathing + R5 foil faced foam board

Foil-faced foam board or polyisocyanurate foam sheathing protects the building’s exterior walls by providing exceptional heat, moisture, and air control. Additionally, it eliminates all major thermal bridges that cause heat loss.

Nylon drainage mat, adhesive window flashing

The drainage mat is made of nylon. Window flashing is necessary on all windows to prevent water from entering the home and causing mold and moisture problems. Window flashing is a membrane installed on the outside of a window that pushes the water down and away from the structure.

Factory painted fiber cement siding, all sides

Factory painted products can save you time and money throughout the construction process as materials will be delivered already painted, which will significantly reduce on-site work time.

Additionally, factory painted materials always have a smooth and uniform finish as they are precisely painted by computerized machines instead of by hand. Most manufacturers will use multiple coats of paint, lasting many years without damage or chips. Factory painted materials are more expensive than raw materials but do not require you to pay for paint or painting costs.

Horizontal laps not caulked, aids drainage

Installing siding like this allows water to exit through each board which prevents water pooling within the siding. Caulk should generally be avoided here as it does not allow for proper drainage.

10/10/2022 8:14:57 PM
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