Plycem is an exterior cementitious siding product that is used to clad exterior façades of buildings. It is composed of an exterior panel and core material (with an optional color coating) made from Portland Cement, light-weight aggregate and selected fibers that are pressed together under high pressure to form decorative boards.
Plycem is durable, weather resistant and renewable, and is suitable for a wide variety of uses, including façade cladding, roofing systems, windows and other window frames. It can also be used in commercial and industrial settings, such as warehouses, manufacturing plants, and retail spaces.
Plycem is resistant to cracking, breakage, and vandalism, making it an ideal choice for any environment with frequent use. It offers excellent aesthetics, allowing for flexibility of design, preservation of character, and maintenance of visual appeal.
Additionally, Plycem is easy to clean and offers fire resistance, which makes it good for fire safety in buildings. It can be used with other metal cladding systems, as well. Overall, Plycem is a strong and aesthetically pleasing material with a variety of uses, from commercial and industrial, to residential and remodeling projects.
What are the different types of cement board?
There are three primary types of cement board, each with unique characteristics suited to a wide range of applications.
1. Fiber Cement Board: Fiber cement board is a manufactured product composed of cement, silica, and cellulose fibers. It is extremely durable, moisture-resistant, and fire-resistant, making it ideal for exterior siding, interior and exterior wall cladding, and many other applications.
Its superior dimensional stability and resistance to weather mean it can be used in high-moisture areas without any risk of warping, cracking, or other damage.
2. HardieBacker Cement Board: This type of cement board is specifically designed to suit tiling applications, such as shower walls, backsplashes, countertops, and floors. It is an exceptionally hard and reliable material, composed of cement and reinforcing fibers.
The fiberglass mesh backing on the panel provides additional strength and dimensional stability, which makes it less susceptible to warping and cracking. Its moisture resistance also makes it ideal for use in wet areas.
3. Cement-Bonded Particleboard: This type of board is composed of portland cement and small particles of wood. It is lightweight, cost-effective, and easy to install. It is commonly used for soundproofing and thermal insulation, as well as in exterior applications such as soffits, siding, and outdoor furniture.
Its moisture-resistant properties also make it a great choice for areas with high humidity, such as bathrooms and basements.
How do you cut Plycem cement board?
Cutting Plycem cement board is easy, but it requires the proper tools and technique to do it properly. First, mark the desired cut line on the board using a pencil, then using a straight edge, such as a ruler or straight board, place it tight against the line and draw on the board to create a deep outline.
To cut the board, you’ll need to equip yourself with a circular saw that is specifically designed for cement board, such as a 7-1/4” blade with diamond-ground carbide teeth, to prevent the blade from cracking or chipping the cement board.
Place the saw blade against the board, on the drawn line, and turn on the power carefully. Make sure to keep the saw blade on the line and keep it moving at a constant speed. After cutting, clean the saw blade and remove any lingering adhesive.
Also, make sure to wear protective glasses, a respirator, and a dust mask when dealing with any cement board. Finally, you can use a utility knife to clean up or cut out small areas of the board.
Who makes Plycem?
Plycem is a brand of cement boards and other building materials manufactured by Cemex, one of the leading names in the global construction industry. Cemex is a Mexican-based company that is the world’s largest producer of building materials and related building solutions.
Cemex manufactures, distributes, and markets a wide variety of building materials, including cement, concrete, and aggregates. Plycem, which is a subsidiary of Cemex, produces products like cement boards, which are used in construction projects ranging from residential homes to commercial buildings.
Plycem strives to create high-quality and durable cement boards, which are designed to be strong, fireproof, and rot-resistant. The company also offers a wide range of other building products, such as blocks, tiles, and stucco, to meet the needs of architects, designers, and builders.
Additionally, Plycem provides a number of services to support their products, including technical advice and consultations, educational seminars, and installation training.
Is Allura as good as Hardie?
Allura and Hardie are both exterior siding materials that offer durable protection from the elements and are designed to last for decades. Both materials are made from a combination of cellulose and cement, but Allura contains acrylic resin for additional weather protection and enhanced paint adhesion, while Hardie does not.
The main differences between these two materials come down to aesthetics and cost. Allura offers a wide range of color and design options, including an array of unique textures, to fit any style. Hardie, on its other hand, is typically grey or off-white and limited in design options, although various finishes and siding styles are available.
When it comes to cost, Allura generally tends to be more expensive than Hardie, especially when required accessories and installation labor are factored in. In terms of other qualities, both Allura and Hardie are incredibly durable and maintenance-friendly, meaning that they are both good options when considering the long-term cost factors.
Ultimately, both Allura and Hardie offer long-lasting protection from the elements, although Allura is slightly more expensive and offers more design options. Ultimately, the decision of which of these siding materials to choose comes down to a matter of personal preference and budget.
What is cement Fibre board?
Cement fibre board is a board material made up of cement, silica sand, and natural fibres such as jute, sisal and coir. It is formed by mixing these ingredients and then passing them through a hydraulic press at high temperatures.
Cement fibre board can be used for a variety of applications such as partition walls, ceilings and flooring. It has superior fire rating, sound and moisture resistance, making it ideal for use in high moisture areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
It is also easy to install, making it an excellent choice for DIYers and professionals alike. In addition, cement fibre board is extremely durable and will not erode over time. This makes it a great choice for areas that are exposed to harsh weather conditions.
What is the difference between cement board and fiber cement board?
Cement board and fiber cement board are both types of sheathing material commonly used in home construction. They are both engineered products that are made from inorganic materials. The main difference between the two is the manufacturing process and the composition of the material.
Cement board is made from cement, water, and other additives, such as silicate and glass fibers. These materials are combined and formed into sheets. Cement board is most often used as a substrate material under floor coverings and wall coverings.
It is a durable product that is resistant to moisture, fire, and insects and will not expand or contract with temperature changes.
Fiber cement board is a composite material that contains both cement and cellulose fibers. The cellulose fibers give it greater strength, flexibility, and durability than cement board. It is also more resistant to temperature variations and moisture, making it an ideal choice for exterior applications.
Fiber cement board can also be used as a structural component due to its increased strength, making it a popular choice for exterior applications like siding and trim.
Which fibre cement board is best?
When it comes to determining which fibre cement board is best, there are several important factors to consider. The most important factor is the intended use. For instance, if you are looking for a board suitable for external use, you should look for board that is water-resistant, fire-resistant and able to withstand extreme temperatures.
Additionally, if you’re looking for a board for internal use, look for a board with a smooth finish and good acoustic properties.
The type of fibre cement board you choose is just as important. There are three main types – compressed, semi-compressed and specialty. Compressed boards are weatherproof, more rigid and are generally cheaper.
Semi-compressed boards are lighter, more flexible and less rigid. Specialty boards are designed for specific applications such as external cladding, ceilings and soffits.
The price of fibre cement board should also be taken into account. Typically, compressed boards are the cheapest, and you can save money by using recycled boards, although there will be some compromise on performance.
When selecting a fibre cement board, it’s important to consider the performance, type and price. Keep in mind the intended use, read the product information and don’t be afraid to ask for advice from experts.
Are cement boards waterproof?
No, cement boards are not waterproof. However, they are water-resistant and are an excellent material for use in areas where moisture is present. Cement boards are composed of cement-based material and are reinforced with glass fibre.
This creates a strong and water-resistant layer of protection that can withstand long-term exposure to moisture. Many cement board manufacturers recommend using waterproofing agents to seal their boards and increase their water resistance further.
Additionally, cement boards are suitable to be used behind tile and other waterproof finishes. This allows the cement board to protect the underlying surfaces and still retain the waterproof seal that the chosen tile provides.
What’s the easiest way to cut cement board?
The easiest way to cut cement board is with an angle grinder. An angle grinder is a handheld power tool that is designed to easily cut through a variety of materials including cement board. When using an angle grinder, it is important to follow safety guidelines and use proper safety gear, such as safety glasses, a dust mask and protective clothing.
Before cutting, mark the cement board where it needs to be cut and then clamp it down securely to a stable surface. Cut the designated area slowly and steadily and if needed, use a slightly heavier-grit blade to ensure that the cut is smooth and even.
After the cut is complete, use a vacuum to remove all of the dust and debris that has accumulated. Following these steps will ensure a successful and safe cutting process.
Do you need a special saw to cut cement board?
Yes, you will need a special saw to cut cement board. This can include anything from a saw equipped with a diamond blade, a multi-tool with a saw blade designed for masonry, or an oscillating tool with a carbide-tipped masonry saw blade.
It’s important to select the proper saw for the job, as the wrong blade can cause chipping and color spots on the cement board’s finished surface. For the best results, always use an approved blade recommended by the manufacturer of the cement board you are using.
Additionally, you’ll want to make sure you wear eye and ear protection and keep a vacuum handy to keep the dust from settling around your workspace. Lastly, don’t forget to mark out the lines you want to cut on the boards before you start.
How do you waterproof cement board for a shower?
Waterproofing cement board for a shower is an essential part of the installation process. It helps protect the substrate from moisture damage and prevent the growth of mold and mildew. When waterproofing cement board, it is important to use a waterproofing membrane that is specifically designed for use in wet areas.
The most common type of membrane is a self-adhesive waterproofing material that can be installed before the setting of the tile. It is important to use a membrane that is rated and approved for use in wet areas, such as bathrooms and showers.
To start, you need to clean the intended area thoroughly and remove any objects or debris. Use a scraper to remove any old tiles or glue if necessary. Once the surface is prepped and clean, you can begin with the first step of waterproofing.
Start at the bottom of the shower and apply the self-adhesive membrane, overlapping each sheet by at least 2 inches. Make sure to get the membrane into all corners and around the drain area. If there are electrical outlets in the shower, you may need to use a waterproof sealant to cover the holes.
Once the membrane is installed, you can move on to the next step of waterproofing. This step involves applying a liquid waterproofing membrane to the cement board. This is done to further protect the substrate from moisture damage.
Make sure to apply the liquid waterproofing membrane in thin even layers over the cement board, making sure to get into the corners and edges. Allow it to dry completely before continuing.
The last step before installing the tile is to apply waterproof caulk in the joints between the cement board and any wall surfaces. This step is important because it prevents water from seeping into these areas.
Waterproofing cement board is an important part of the installation process for showers. It helps ensure that the substrate is protected from moisture damage, while also preventing the growth of mold and mildew.
Make sure to use a waterproofing membrane that is specifically designed for wet areas and to follow all instructions carefully. Once the waterproofing is complete, the tile can then be installed.
What cement board can be used outside?
Cement board can be used for many exterior applications, such as siding, flooring, and exterior walls. The most common cement board used for exterior applications is fiber cement board which is known for its strength, durability, and versatility.
This type of board is comprised of a mix of cement and natural fibers, such as wood and cellulose, which are then mixed together and shaped into sheets. The material is noncombustible, resistant to moisture, and can withstand freeze-thaw cycles.
Fiber cement sheets can be cut and installed as a single board installation or laid in brick or stone designs. This type of board is suitable for any outdoor application and can be painted or stained to match the look of the desired exterior.
In general, fiber cement board has a longer life span than most synthetic siding materials, making it a great choice for exterior remodeling and building projects.
Is cement board fire resistant?
Yes, cement board is fire resistant. Cement board is composed of cement, sand, and fiber mixed together and pressed into sheets. This combination of materials forms a durable, water-resistant material that is also highly fire resistant.
It has a flame spread rating of less than 25, making it suitable for use in fire-rated walls and floors. Additionally, cement board can withstand temperatures of up to 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit and is typically used for fire-stops, fire barriers, and some chimney liners.
It also has sound-dampening properties and is used in sound-proofing applications. Cement board is an excellent choice for fire-resistant construction projects, offering both fire protection and strong water-resistance.