and 1/2 in. thick, weighs 45 to 60 lbs. and is available at most full-service lumberyards and building supply centers. The 1/2-in. thick cement board spans studs spaced 16 in. on center.

Install the building paper, then follow your stud location marks and snap chalk lines to guide both your nailing and your placement of siding joints. We’re also using fiber cement trim boards.

plus 1.128 tons of portland cement at the 20-city price, plus 1,088 board-ft of 2 x 4 lumber at the 20-city price. Building Cost Index History 68.38 hours of skilled labor at the 20-city average ...