How to Stain Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement siding is a great alternative to wood siding. Many people feel that it is more durable than wood, and it can be less expensive in the long haul. However, if you do not like the artificial look of fiber cement siding, you may have been avoiding installing it or purchasing a house that already has it in place. Fortunately, you can stain fiber cement siding so that it looks just like wood.

Things You'll Need

• Fiber cement siding stain
• Pressure washer
• Paint brushes

Instructions

1. Make sure that you have the right type of stain. Stains that are intended for fiber cement siding should be labeled "semi-transparent." They are intended to highlight the grain of the siding, making it look more like wood. If your stain does not specifically indicate on the label that it is intended to protect fiber cement siding, then you do not have a stain that is appropriate for this project. Wood stain simply will not work.

2. Clean up your siding. If you have a pressure washer available, then pressure wash your house. Make sure that you get all of the dirt, debris and grime off the siding. If you fail, then you will simply seal it in under the stain. Also, the cleaner your siding is the better the stain will look because the grain of the siding will be more obvious. If you do not have a pressure washer, you can work with a hose and scrub brush or hire a professional to pressure wash the house.

3. Apply the stain. Use the paintbrush to paint on a layer of stain. Smooth on the stain evenly and spread it out as much as possible. Do not use a heavy coat because this will cause globbing and slow drying. Your goal should be to get a thin, even layer on the fiber cement siding. Do not leave any parts uncovered or you will leave your siding susceptible to cracking, blistering and even bubbling.

4. Let the stain dry. If you are painting a building, then by the time you get around the entire structure the part that you painted first will likely be dry. If you are working on a smaller structure like a deck then you may need to give it a little time. An hour should be sufficient.

5. Layer on a second coat of the stain. As before, add a thin, even coat. Make sure that you have not missed any areas on the structure.

6. Let the stain dry completely. If you wish, you can add a third coat for brightness and durability. Now your fiber cement siding is fully protected from the weather and has the healthy, beautiful gleam of natural wood.

Tips & Warnings

• If you use a ladder to stain your house, then make sure that it sits evenly on the ground to prevent falls.

References

• Information on fiber cement siding stains