Cohousing-L Mailing List: Re: Choosing Colors

[psp (psp]

Hardiplank is normally sold as "pre-primed."  I do not think that it should be
left unfinished, however.  The manufacturers instructions are to paint it
within six months.  Paint provides important protection for the material,
whether it be wood or fiber-cement or some other material.  There are instances
when materials can be left in their natural state, and will age gracefully and
well.  Unpainted materials should be carefully evaluated.

A number of manufacturers are now making very environmentally responsible
paints, if choosing greener materials is an important factor in your decision. 
It is probably more environmentally responsible to paint your siding material
and have it last longer, rather than have to replace all the siding after only
a short period of time. 

Hardiplank normally comes pre-primed, but you can get it pre-finished (which is
essentially just shop painted rather than field painted).  The pre-finished
material is a much more expensive option, though.  

Philip Proefrock

Luckenbach|Ziegelman Architects
Ann Arbor, MI 


> From: Joe Nolan <jnolan [at] adobe.com>
> >Does the cement siding come in different colors?
> >  
> >
> 
> Yes. I had assumed there was an option of integral color rather than 
> painted on, but I'm not certain.
> Looks like "Hardiplank" is a common brand, which can be pre-painted with 
> a 15 yr warranty on finish, or just primed.
> <http://www.jameshardie.com/homeowner/prodhome/colorplus.php>
> Presumably also a good option for fire-resistance in tightly clustered 
> housing.


----------------------------------------------------------------
This message was sent using IMP, the Internet Messaging Program.