You may only need to repaint fiber cement siding every decade or so, but you should clean it every six to 12 months, depending on your local climate. First, wash with a garden hose or similar low-pressure device (not a high-pressure washer, which can damage the material) to remove dirt and any large debris. Then, gently wipe down the surface with a soft brush or cloth in a side-to-side motion, following the grain of the fiber cement.

You should restain or refinish your home's cedar siding every three to seven years to maintain its appearance and ensure maximum protection. The precise frequency depends on several factors, including your local climate, the siding's exposure to severe weather like direct sunlight, rain, and wind, the quality of the initial stain application, the type of stain used, and the condition of the wood.

Homeowners in harsh climates with high humidity and significant direct sunlight should plan on restaining every three years, while those in milder locations can wait up to seven years. For the longest-lasting protection in particularly harsh environments, consider using an opaque stain.

If you're looking for a lower-maintenance alternative, vinyl or aluminum siding are options to consider. Although their installation cost may be higher, they don't require as much upkeep over time, which can provide more value, especially in areas with excessive rainfall or high humidity.

Fiber cement siding is the best siding to install over stucco because it offers many of the same benefits for homes where stucco is common, including fire resistance, insect resistance, and good insulation. Fiber cement siding is also rigid, so it won’t warp over time like vinyl siding might if installed over furring strips.

The average cost to install stucco siding on a home is around $5,700, with most homeowners paying between $2,200 and $9,100. However, the total cost can range from $750 to as high as $22,750 depending on several factors. On average, you can expect to pay between $7 and $9 per square foot. Key cost factors include the size and complexity of your home, the desired color and texture, labor and material costs in your area, and whether you have a multi-story home. Specific applications have different costs, such as adding stucco over brick ($7 per square foot) or over wood siding ($8.50 per square foot). To save money, you can consider removing the old siding yourself or scheduling the installation during the off-season.