abstract |
A durable, nailable, lightweight and fire resistant fiber cement article that can be a cost-effective substitute for conventional building materials is provided. The fiber cement article can be profiled to resemble a roofing article such as a wood shake or slate. The fiber cement article incorporates a hydrophobe and a viscosity enhancing agent that are each selected to control the rate of hydration of the binder. The fiber cement article is durable, is walkable and nailable without cracking during installation and maintains walkablilty after exposure in service. |