Ficem boards, or fiber cement boards, are very popular for Philippine construction projects. Finding the right Ficem Board Price is important for managing your construction budget successfully. These materials are known for their great strength and versatility in many different buildings. Ficem boards are a great investment because they are durable and affordable for all buildings. This guide will help you understand what Ficem boards are and how you can use them in your next project.
What is a Ficem Board?
Ficem board is a modern building material that is an alternative to traditional plywood and gypsum board. It is made by mixing together cement, sand, water, and cellulose fibers. This unique mix creates a product that is dense, strong, and highly resistant to damage. Ficem boards are pressed into thin, flat sheets, usually measuring 4 feet by 8 feet. You can find these boards in various thicknesses, typically from 3.5mm up to 12mm or more.
Available Sizes and Uses
The different thicknesses allow the boards to be used for many kinds of structural and finishing work. Thinner boards are usually used for ceilings, while thicker ones are better for walls and floors. The raw board has a smooth, gray finish that is easy to paint and can mimic other materials. This makes Ficem boards a flexible choice for achieving different looks in both interior and exterior designs. They are an essential item for builders who need a reliable and multi-purpose material.
Why Use Ficem Board? (Benefits and Advantages)
Using Ficem boards offers many benefits that are especially useful in the Philippine climate. The material is designed to handle tough weather conditions without any major problems.
Superior Durability and Safety
A major benefit is that they strongly resist moisture and water damage. Unlike wood, Ficem boards will not warp, swell, or rot when they get wet. This makes them perfect for wet areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and outside walls. They also have a very high resistance to fire and will not burn or spread flames. This feature makes buildings much safer for the people who live and work inside them.
Ficem boards are also resistant to common household pests, such as termites and boring insects. This is a big advantage over wood, which often needs constant maintenance to prevent pest damage. The materials are very strong and can withstand impacts, which helps them last for many decades. Using these durable boards can greatly reduce the long-term repair and maintenance costs for any building.
Cost and Maintenance Benefits
When you consider the board’s long life, the initial cost is often worth the investment. They require very little maintenance once they have been correctly installed and painted. This low upkeep saves homeowners both time and money over many years. Ficem boards also help keep your home cooler to some extent, which can slightly reduce energy costs. In the end, they are a very smart and cost-effective solution for modern building needs.
Common Applications
Ficem boards are extremely versatile and can be used in almost every part of a building project. Their ability to handle moisture and fire makes them suitable for many critical areas.
Interior Applications
Inside the home or building, Ficem boards are commonly used to create neat, seamless ceilings. Their stability and smooth finish make them a popular choice for this purpose. They are excellent for creating interior wall partitions that are fire and sound-resistant. For bathrooms and kitchens, they are a reliable base for placing ceramic tiles. This use prevents water from seeping into the walls and causing mildew or structural damage.
Exterior Applications
Ficem boards are also widely trusted for all types of exterior construction applications. They are often used as external wall cladding or siding that protects the building from rain, sun, and heat. The boards can be shaped and painted to resemble wood siding, offering a stylish look without the maintenance problems of real wood. Builders use them for eaves and soffits, which are the parts under a roof’s edge. In these areas, the Ficem board provides strong defense against moisture and pests.
Understanding Ficem Board Price in the Philippines
The cost of Ficem board sheets in the Philippines can change based on a few simple factors. The most important factor is the thickness of the board you choose for your project.
Price by Thickness
Thinner boards, such as 3.5mm to 4.5mm, are the most affordable and often cost between PHP 350 to PHP 550 per sheet. These are generally used for interior ceilings and light partitions. Medium-thickness boards, like 6mm and 9mm, have a price range of about PHP 500 to PHP 1,100 per sheet. These are suitable for interior walls, medium-traffic partitions, and some outdoor uses. The thickest boards, which are 12mm or more, are often used for flooring and external walls needing extra strength. Their prices often start at PHP 1,200 and may go up to PHP 2,000 or even more. Prices also vary between different brands, so always compare quality and cost before buying.
How to Achieve the Best Installation Results
To get the most out of your Ficem board investment, correct installation is very important. Always use the manufacturer’s recommended screws and fasteners for the best hold and finish. Use a fine-tooth saw or a special fiber cement cutting tool to cut the sheets cleanly. Make sure to properly seal all joints between the boards to prevent water from entering the structure.
Finishing and Longevity
Proper finishing, such as priming and painting, will protect the board and improve its appearance. Using a high-quality, weather-resistant paint is best for exterior applications. Taking these steps will ensure that the Ficem board performs well and lasts for its maximum lifespan. This careful process guarantees your building project will remain strong and beautiful for decades.
Key Takeaway
Ficem boards are an excellent, durable, and cost-effective building solution for the Philippines. Always remember to check the current Ficem Board Price from several hardware stores to get the best deal for your budget. They offer superior protection against fire, water, and pests, making them very reliable materials. By understanding the different thicknesses and their typical uses, you can choose the right board for every part of your building.
