Fiber Cement Board vs Cement Particle Board: Key Differences You Must Know
When selecting boards for facades, exterior walls, or building systems, many professionals compare fiber cement boards with cement particle boards. Both are cement-based products and are often mentioned together, which can make the choice confusing.
While they may look similar, these two materials behave differently in real-world applications — especially when it comes to fire performance, surface quality, and typical use areas.
This article explains the differences in a clear, non-technical way, helping you choose the right board for your project.
How the Two Boards Are Made
The main difference between fiber cement boards and cement particle boards lies in their internal structure.
Fiber cement boards are made from cement reinforced with fine fibers. These fibers give the board strength while keeping it relatively uniform and dense.
Cement particle boards, on the other hand, use cement bonded with wood particles or chips. The presence of wood changes how the board reacts to fire, moisture, and finishing processes.
This difference in composition explains most of the performance differences discussed below.
Fire Performance: The Biggest and Most Important Difference
Fire performance is often the deciding factor, especially for facade applications.
Fiber cement boards and fire rating
One of the strongest advantages of fiber cement boards is their A1 fire rating. An A1 classification means the material is non-combustible and does not contribute to fire spread.
Because of this, fiber cement boards are widely specified for:
- Exterior facades
- Rainscreen cladding systems
- Buildings with strict fire regulations
For many projects, especially multi-storey buildings, using a material with an A1 rating simplifies approval and specification.
Cement particle boards and fire behavior
Cement particle boards can still offer good fire performance, but because they contain wood particles, their fire classification depends on the specific product and formulation.
This means:
- Fire performance must be checked product by product
- Classification may vary between manufacturers
- Approval may require closer review
For projects where A1 non-combustibility is mandatory, fiber cement boards are usually the safer and clearer choice.
Typical Use in Facade Applications
Fiber cement boards are commonly used as visible facade panels. They are designed for exterior exposure and are often chosen for their clean appearance and long-term durability.
Cement particle boards are more frequently used as:
- Structural or semi-structural boards
- Sheathing layers
- Backer boards behind other finishes
While cement particle boards can be used in facade systems, they are less commonly selected as the final visible cladding.
Surface Finish and Appearance
Surface quality matters when a board will be visible.
Fiber cement boards generally offer:
- A smoother and more uniform surface
- Better compatibility with paint and coatings
- A more refined architectural appearance
Cement particle boards often have:
- A rougher, more industrial surface
- A look that is better suited for concealed or functional layers
- Less emphasis on aesthetics
For projects where appearance is important, fiber cement boards are usually preferred.
Moisture and Weather Performance
Both boards are cement-based and perform well in exterior conditions when installed correctly.
Fiber cement boards are non-organic and resist rot, swelling, and deformation. They perform well in wet and cold climates when used in ventilated facade systems.
Cement particle boards are also durable, but because they include wood particles, correct detailing and edge protection become more important to ensure long-term performance.
Installation and Handling
From a practical point of view:
- Fiber cement boards are often supplied in formats designed specifically for facade installation.
- Cement particle boards are generally thicker and feel more structural, which can be useful in certain construction systems.
Both materials require correct fixing, spacing, and handling, but fiber cement boards are more commonly supported by facade-specific installation guides.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose fiber cement boards if:
- Fire safety is a top priority
- An A1 fire rating is required
- The board will be visible as a facade finish
- You want a clean, architectural appearance
Choose cement particle boards if:
- The board will be used as sheathing or a structural layer
- Appearance is not the main concern
- The product’s fire classification is already approved for your application
Final Thoughts
Although fiber cement boards and cement particle boards are both cement-based materials, they are not interchangeable.
The A1 fire rating of fiber cement boards is their strongest advantage and the main reason they are widely used for modern facade systems. Cement particle boards can still play an important role in construction, but they are typically better suited for backing, sheathing, or structural uses rather than exposed facades.
Understanding these differences helps avoid specification mistakes and ensures long-term performance of the building envelope.
👉 Visit the Smartfiber Fiber Cement Board page to explore specs, sizes, and delivery options.
Authored by Smartcon Int’l. Trade & Marketing Ltd. on 19.12.2025. All rights reserved.