EPiC database - Fibre cement sheet

This material is part of the free Environmental Performance in Construction (EPiC) Database. The EPiC Database contains embodied environmental flow coefficients for 250+ construction materials using a comprehensive hybrid life cycle inventory approach.

Fibre cement sheet is a non-structural material manufactured from Portland cement, cellulose fibres and water. Sheets come in standard sizes, generally 1800 to 3000 mm in length, 900 or 1200 mm wide and in thicknesses ranging from 4.5 mm to 24 mm. They can be easily cut to size on site. Thicker boards provide superior impact resistance while thinner boards are typically used in situations where impact resistance is not as crucial.

Thermal and acoustic performance is generally poor and additional insulation is usually needed when used as external cladding. However, it is termite and rot resistant and has very high fire resistance properties.

Fibre cement sheet is often used as a replacement for plasterboard, particularly in situations that are exposed to water (such as wet areas). It can be used for both residential and commercial buildings in a range of applications, including internal and external cladding, soffit linings and structural bracing.