Cohousing-L Mailing List: Re: Re: HardeePlank (was Consensus in cohousing)

[Matt Lawrence (matt]

On Fri, 8 Aug 2003, Diane Simpson wrote:

> The comment about the HardeePlank caught my eye because that's what 
> we're planning to use. Our contractor claims we can save 32-45K by 
> using 3/4 red cedar siding. Has anyone else who's used HardeePlank 
> found it to be cheaper than cedar? What are some of the maintenance 
> trade-offs?

HardiePlank is considered masonry when it come to insurance.  This will 
save you money every year.  It comes with a 50 year guarantee while the 
red cedar will almost certainly need to be replaced at least once in that 
timeframe.  I've also been told that it really reduces how often you need 
to paint.

All in all, I think it's a much better way to go.  However, your builder 
is probably used to building houses for sale and HardiePlank doesn't 
really add to "curb appeal".  He may also recommend skimping on 
insulation, saying "well, it meets code".  Really good insulation will not 
only reduce your utility bills dramatiacally, it will also improve you 
quality of life and enjoyment of your homes.

-- Matt

-- 
>From my heart and from my hand, why don't people understand my intention?

_______________________________________________
Cohousing-L mailing list
Cohousing-L [at] cohousing.org  Unsubscribe  and other info:
http://www.cohousing.org/cohousing-L