Undertaking a siding project can not only give your home a fresh new look, but can also save energy costs by decreasing heat loss through exterior walls.
James Hardie lap siding offers homeowners looking for cost-effective upgrades an excellent way to add value without breaking the bank. Not only is this type of durable material attractive and low maintenance costs associated with maintaining it but it can add considerable worth to your home over time.
Removing the Existing Siding
While James Hardie siding is extremely resilient, it still may become damaged over time by environmental elements. Therefore, it is vitally important that you learn how to replace damaged hardiplank siding so as to extend its lifespan and prolong the lifespan of your exterior walls.
Start by determining how much siding needs replacing, using the existing panel as a guide and marking any additional cuts needed (e.g. vent, window and power outlet openings). Be sure to measure each new piece to make sure it fits perfectly before starting to replace them.
Once you know how much material needs replacing, select appropriate nails. Hot-dip galvanized or stainless steel nails should be used to avoid rusting and staining on new siding and should be driven in tight and at an angle to prevent water pooling in gutters. A nail bucket will keep track of what nails you are pulling out – helping avoid any mistakes which cost extra money!
Cutting the Hardie Siding
Hardie board fiber cement siding adds value and beauty to your home. Its durability, curb appeal, and resistance to the elements have long made it a top choice among homeowners – however its installation requires greater expertise than some other forms of siding material.
Installing hardieplank siding requires using a circular saw with an efficient dust collection system to avoid breathing in harmful silica sand particles that could pose long-term health concerns for installers.
When installing new boards, it is also vitally important to use a hardie-specific nail gun in order to fill any holes or allow moisture in. In addition, caulking between boards may help seal out moisture while caulk can also prevent cracking or peeling over time. Finally, ensure the new hardie plank siding is securely fastened against studs in an even pattern.
Installing the Hardie Siding
Once the old siding is removed and prepared for new, install James Hardie planks correctly based on James Hardie installation instructions (unless using minimum 7/16″ wood structural paneling as sheathing ). Jointing should land on a stud, providing proper insulation while leaving space between it and the wall that allows moisture and insect passage.
Use a Hardie nail gun and caulk designed specifically for Hardie panel siding to seal off seams as required, then paint over it using paint that matches its existing color.
Flash all doors and windows properly according to local building code regulations to avoid problems that cannot always be solved. Be sure to follow all guidelines set forth by James Hardie when flashing these openings; failure to do so could cause irreparable harm.
Finishing the Job
Once your new siding has been installed, it must be painted. Proper painting techniques should be utilized so as to protect it against weather conditions and other influences; an average quality paint job will typically last three to five years before needing repainted.
To ensure that the new siding is installed properly, a stud finder should be used to locate and mark where studs exist on your home. This will enable you to avoid hitting water and electrical lines when nailing it on. In addition, caulk should be applied around eaves, trim edges, windows and doors for added moisture protection.
James Hardie siding comes in an assortment of styles and colors to meet the aesthetic requirements of any aesthetic. Additionally, its low maintenance requirements only require soap and water for daily cleaning purposes – not even to remove dirt and grime! Plus it comes with a 15-year product and finish warranty! For more information about Hardie Plank products visit James Hardie website.