Removing Hardie plank siding can be an arduous undertaking that requires patience and precision. There are multiple steps involved, including taking measures such as removing trim and accessories before searching out hidden fasteners to be removed. Care must be taken so as not to damage the sheathing underneath.
Fiber cement siding is a green building material as its composition includes sand, cement and non-wood fibers that do not deplete natural resources like wood. Furthermore, fiber cement siding has fireproof qualities and protects against termites and mold growth – three qualities not usually associated with wood construction materials.
Cost
Before beginning to remove siding, it is essential to perform an initial inspection. There may be hidden nails or screws within overlapping panels which must be extracted during this inspection process to prevent damage during removal.
Once you have all of your tools together, it is time to remove the old siding. Wear protective gloves and glasses as this will protect you from potential hazards or airborne particles while helping prevent damaging walls or structures in your home.
To install new siding, it’s advisable to use stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized nails that can be driven manually or with pneumatic nailers. In addition, caulking around trim edges and eaves should also be done carefully with caulk that has permanent flexibility; this will keep moisture (such as wind-driven rain and snow) out of the wall cavity and keep moisture at bay.
Installation
For proper Hardie board siding installation, several tools will be necessary. This includes safety glasses, work gloves and a dust mask to protect your eyes, hands and respiratory system from potential hazards or airborne particles; additionally a utility knife and pry bar may also come in handy.
First step to successful installation: clear away the area. Make sure all furniture or items that could be damaged during the process have been safely removed, and ensure there are no obstructions within working area (for instance a ladder or scaffolding should have been safely placed).
Before beginning, be sure to read through and understand the instructions that came with your siding. Also ensure you have a color chart as a guideline. Also keep in mind that stain can void James Hardie warranties; for smaller nicks or scrapes using ColorPlus touch up is recommended instead.
Durability
Hardie Plank siding stands out as an exceptional choice in terms of its durability. Made of fiber cement construction, it can withstand extreme temperature swings as well as insects and termites without incurring damage – making it an excellent alternative to natural wood siding.
For optimal Hardie siding maintenance, periodically use a low pressure garden hose to wash it with low water volume to remove dirt, grime, pollen, bird droppings, and other debris which may make your home appear dirty or rundown. Be sure to direct the nozzle away from your siding in order to avoid damaging its finish.
Clean gutters regularly and inspect them for water stains caused by hard water that contains magnesium and calcium, or leaky sprinklers. Inspect siding regularly for soft spots or signs of rot; repair immediately in order to avoid future problems and prolong its life span. Lastly, caulking penetrations, flashings and plank-to-trim connections is another excellent way of keeping moisture out of wall cavities and help your siding last longer.
Appearance
James Hardie’s best-selling product, lap siding is an ideal way to protect homes against weather elements while remaining durable and visually appealing – plus there are multiple colors to choose from!
Hardie plank exteriors need regular upkeep in order to remain looking their best. To maintain this appearance, wash it every 6-12 months using low pressure garden hose water using a garden hose with low-pressure setting – this will reduce mold growth as well as mildew and rot problems.
Fiber cement material is known to withstand weather damage, insects and pests well. Furthermore, its fire resistance makes it safe from starting fires unlike vinyl which feeds flames directly.
If you are thinking about installing new siding, make sure you work with a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor so your project is completed successfully and saves both money and adds value to your home. Working with one will save both in the short-term and over time.