How to Paint Fiber Cement Siding

Last Updated: February 23, 2022 References

More and more homes and townhouses are popping up around the country with fiber cement siding. This handsome material is a high-density combination of – you guessed it – fiber (the cellulosic variety) and cement, plus sand. The siding is durable, termite-resistant, water-resistant, and non-combustible. And it's a great candidate for exterior painting, whether to correct a failing paint job or to simply change the color of the siding.

Steps

1
Be sure that all cracks and openings in the siding are sealed with a quality acrylic or siliconized acrylic caulk, although you should not seal the side and bottom edges unless the manufacturer of the siding recommends it.^{[1]
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2
Treat any mildew that is present with a solution of one part bleach to three parts water. Apply the solution to the affected areas, leave it on for 20 minutes, then rinse it off thoroughly (wear eye and skin protection).^{[2]
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3
Remove dirt and dust from the entire exterior by power-washing with plain water, or cleaning with a detergent solution and rinsing thoroughly.^{[3]
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4
If any old paint remains that is flaking or showing other signs of poor adhesion, remove it by careful wire-brushing, working in the direction of the simulated wood-grain if there is any. When doing this work, wear a dust mask, as well as eye and skin protection.^{[4]
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5
To help your paint adhere to the fiber cement siding and to get the most uniform-looking finish on your paint job, the best practice is to apply one coat of a quality exterior latex stain-blocking or masonry primer to all of the siding.^{[5]
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6
Complete the paint job by applying a top quality 100% acrylic latex paint that is recommended for use on masonry surfaces. You can extend the life of the paint job by applying two coats of paint, but that's up to you. A second coat isn't essential.^{[6]
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Community Q&A

Question

What finish is best for staying on, satin or eggshell?

Rosemary Autumnwell

Community Answer

Eggshell. Satin usually blends in with the color and it’s hard to see it.
Question

How long does it take for the paint on the fiber cement siding to dry?

Community Answer

It depends on the paint. Read the instructions on the can, or look up the paint online. On the paint manufacturer's website, you will find a technical data sheet, which should contain drying time.