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Art Begun
 
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Default Life Expectancy of Cedar Siding?

I had cedar on my previous home. It comes in various thicknesses.
Mine was very thin and cheap. Nothing would stop it from cracking.
But even the thick stuff needs an opaque stain to protect it from
cracking from the sun in my climate. I would go with the cement
board. Unless you prefer maintaining a house over living in it and
enjoying life, get the cement board.


"Paul Rouse" wrote in message
om...
I am building a new house (Mid-West - Near Chicago) and I am trying

to
decide between natural cedar clapboard (primed and painted) or a
synthetic such as primed and painted cement fiber board (i.e., Hardi
Board). My builder is strongly discouraging me from deciding on
natural cedar. I have also asked all of the building suppliers in

the
area about natural cedar - they all look at me like i am crazy to

want
to use natural cedar. The collective opinion is that natural cedar
will only look good for 5 to 10 years (regardless of paint job).
After 5 to 10 years, they claim that the cedar will show serious

signs
of decay.

Is this an accurate description considering the cold winter climate?
I am concerned that they are pushing me towards a solution that may
have a higher profit margin (or some other motive).

What kind of life expectancy should one expect from natural cedar?

Thanks in advance for your input.