GAF WeatherSide Fiber-Cement Siding is a premium product designed to replace or repair old asbestos shingles while offering modern durability, safety, and ease of installation. As a factory-pre-primed, fire-resistant, and termite-resistant alternative, it provides a safe and long-lasting solution for homeowners seeking to maintain the classic aesthetic of traditional siding without the associated risks. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the product’s key features, installation process, and technical specifications based on official documentation and manufacturer descriptions.
Product Overview and Key Features
GAF WeatherSide Fiber-Cement Siding is engineered to replicate the appearance of historical asbestos shingles, which were widely used in residential construction over the past six decades. The product is available in multiple profiles, including the Purity Wavy Shingle, Profile 12, and Profile 14, each designed to match the size, shape, and aesthetic of older siding styles. These profiles vary in dimensions and surface textures, allowing for tailored application to specific architectural styles.
One of the most notable attributes of the WeatherSide line is its fiber-cement construction. This composite material combines cement, sand, and cellulose fibers to create a durable, weather-resistant surface that resists warping, rotting, expansion/contraction, UV degradation, and termite damage. Unlike the asbestos shingles it replaces, the product is explicitly stated to contain no asbestos, making it a safe and environmentally responsible choice.
The factory pre-primed finish is another critical feature. This eliminates the need for on-site priming, allowing for direct painting to match existing trim or siding. This not only streamlines the installation process but also ensures a uniform and aesthetically pleasing finish.
Additional safety features include fire resistance. The product is classified under ANS/UL723 and is non-combustible according to ASTM E136 standards. These certifications confirm its ability to withstand high temperatures and reduce the risk of fire spread, offering an added layer of protection for residential structures.
Installation Process
The installation of GAF WeatherSide Fiber-Cement Siding involves several key steps, starting with the removal and disposal of existing siding. Due to the historical use of asbestos in older shingles, it is important to follow local, state, and federal regulations regarding the handling and disposal of such materials. Once the old siding has been removed and disposed of safely, the installation of the new WeatherSide siding can proceed.
The siding is installed by nailing it into place, without the need for caulking at the joints. This simplifies the process and reduces the risk of improper sealing, which can lead to water intrusion and long-term damage. Corrosion-resistant nails or screws are recommended for securing the panels to the wall structure. It is important to maintain proper spacing between panels to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction, ensuring long-term structural integrity.
Layout planning is a critical step in the installation process. Installers should consider the placement of seams and joints to maintain a consistent and aesthetically pleasing appearance. Proper alignment ensures that the siding not only looks uniform but also functions effectively as a protective layer against the elements.
Once all panels are installed and secured, trim pieces are added around windows, doors, and corners. These trim components serve both a functional and aesthetic role, sealing gaps and completing the visual appearance of the structure. In some cases, additional sealing with caulk or appropriate sealants may be necessary to prevent water infiltration through joints.
Finally, if the siding is not pre-painted, a coat of paint is applied after installation. This enhances the appearance and provides an additional layer of protection against environmental factors such as moisture, UV exposure, and temperature fluctuations. A final inspection is then conducted to ensure proper alignment, sealing, and adherence to installation guidelines.
Technical Specifications and Product Variants
GAF WeatherSide Fiber-Cement Siding is available in multiple profiles and sizes, each tailored to specific applications. The following details are provided based on available documentation:
Profile 12: This variant features straight-edge shingles with dimensions of 12 inches by 24 inches. Each bundle contains 18 shingles, covering approximately 33 square feet. The weight per bundle is not explicitly stated, but similar profiles are reported to range between 56 and 57 pounds.
Profile 14: This variant includes striated surface shingles with a width of 14-5/8 inches and a length of 32 inches. Each bundle contains 11 shingles and covers approximately 33 square feet. The weight per bundle is 57 pounds.
Purity Wavy Shingle: This profile is designed to replicate the wavy appearance of older shingles and is reported to contain 18 shingles per board, covering 33 square feet. The weight per board is 56 pounds.
All variants are factory pre-primed and ready for painting. The product is backed by a 25-year limited warranty, which covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and installation conditions.
Safety and Environmental Considerations
GAF WeatherSide Fiber-Cement Siding is marketed as a safe alternative to asbestos-containing materials. The product explicitly states that it contains no asbestos, making it suitable for installation without the need for special handling precautions associated with hazardous materials. This is a critical consideration for both professional contractors and DIY users, as it eliminates the need for extensive protective measures during removal and installation.
Additionally, the product is designed to resist termite infiltration, which is a common concern in regions where termite activity is prevalent. This feature reduces the likelihood of structural damage caused by pest infestations and minimizes the need for ongoing pest control measures.
The fire-resistant properties of the siding also contribute to overall safety. Classified under ANS/UL723 and non-combustible under ASTM E136, the product offers protection against fire hazards, reducing the risk of rapid fire spread in the event of an incident. This classification is particularly relevant for areas with high fire risk or for structures requiring compliance with fire safety codes.
Delivery, Shipping, and Support
The product is available for purchase through various online retailers, including Roofing4Us, RoofingDirect, and Insulation4Us. Each of these platforms offers delivery services with estimated shipping windows typically ranging from 3 to 5 business days for the lower 48 states. Free shipping options are available on select products.
For large-scale projects, buyers can request quotes or apply for trade credit accounts, which offer benefits such as dedicated pricing, account management, and loyalty rewards. These services are particularly useful for contractors and commercial buyers who require bulk quantities and ongoing support.
Customer support is available through online Q&A sections and direct contact options. For urgent inquiries, a phone number is provided for immediate assistance. Additionally, detailed product documentation and frequently asked questions (FAQ) are available online to help buyers make informed decisions.
Conclusion
GAF WeatherSide Fiber-Cement Siding is a well-designed, durable, and safe alternative to traditional asbestos shingles. Its fiber-cement construction provides long-term resistance to environmental and structural threats, while the factory pre-primed finish simplifies the painting process and ensures a seamless finish. The product is available in multiple profiles, each tailored to match historical siding styles, making it ideal for restoration projects and aesthetic preservation.
Installation is straightforward, involving the removal of old siding, proper layout planning, panel installation, and final sealing with trim and paint. Safety certifications, including fire resistance and termite resistance, further enhance its appeal for homeowners and contractors alike.
With a 25-year limited warranty, free shipping options, and dedicated support services, GAF WeatherSide Fiber-Cement Siding offers a reliable and cost-effective solution for those seeking to upgrade their home’s exterior. Whether for new construction or renovation projects, this product provides a combination of performance, safety, and aesthetic value.