Before remodeling an older residence, find out if the siding contains asbestos.
A home built before 1970 may have siding that contains asbestos. Asbestos that is improperly removed can become airborne, and asbestos fibers breathed into lungs can cause cancer. Asbestos siding as a replacement is, therefore, no longer available. While asbestos siding is durable, versatile and insulating, it's outstanding quality was its fire resistance.
Wood
A wood face is attractive but will spread fire to the interior unless chemically treated.
Wood siding can be used to replace asbestos siding, but you'll want it to be chemically treated with approved fire resistant products. This treatment will have to be periodically repeated to maintain a good defense. Wood exterior gives you a lot of versatility in appearance, but is only a good option if you are all right with a higher maintenance product and periodic chemical application.
Stucco and EIFS
Brick and stucco finishes are attractive and protective, but can be costly.
Use stucco, brick, or exterior insulation finish systems to coat your house in a fire-resistant material with strong insulating properties. Back stucco and brick with gypsum, which holds water and reduces heat transfer to the home frame and interior. Exterior insulation finishing systems (EIFS) are backed with foam insulation and designed to fall off the home under high heat, leaving the foam to protect the interior.
Stone
Sliced stone protects and gives a home distinction.
Use stone facing as a protection and for a durable exterior look. Mortar must be fire-resistant. Properly built, a stone veneer can protect a home from fire heat for up to four hours.
Fiber Cement
New products using cement and plant fiber to build siding forms can give your home a high level of protection, if backed properly. These fiber cement sidings probably mimic the old asbestos siding most closely, as they are durable and low maintenance, easy to paint, consistent and protective. They protect against termite and water damage and often come with a warranty.
Tags: asbestos siding, chemically treated, contains asbestos, stucco brick