Hardie Plank siding (also referred to as cement siding) is an elegant home improvement project that can add significant value and has relatively low maintenance requirements, unlike other options.
Hardie board siding, constructed of fiber cement – an intermixture of Portland cement, sand and cellulose fiber- is durable and long-term, protecting you from costly wood damage caused by moisture penetration such as rot and swelling. It will stand up well over time.
1. Remove the Old Siding
Hardieplank siding comes in various textures and colors to meet any decor style or taste, from lap, board and batten and shingle styles – lap siding is most popular due to its range of finishes and textures; board and batten options work particularly well in farmhouse-style homes while Hardie shingles provide more modern solutions that fit seamlessly with different homes.
Prior to commencing any renovation work, it is a wise idea to discuss various options with your contractor and have them provide recommendations regarding which would work best in your home.
Assuring that the siding remains in good condition is also an important task, and is recommended that it is washed every six to 12 months using a garden hose with low pressure (higher pressure can damage fiber cement) water spray nozzles. Furthermore, caulking or sealants that remain permanently flexible may also prove helpful in keeping up the siding’s beauty and condition.
2. Prepare the Area
Before installing new siding, it’s advisable to have an expert inspect your walls for signs of water rot and sheathing damage, which should be repaired or painted prior to proceeding with replacement work.
Hardie plank’s cement-like composition enables it to boast lower maintenance costs than other forms of siding, while still resisting cracking, rotting and hail damage as well as insect protection and deterrence against vermin.
James Hardie fiber cement siding products, manufactured by James Hardie, consist of Portland cement, sand, and cellulose fiber, with various styles and textures like stucco, wood grain, smooth, stucco edge detail, smooth surface with wood grain detail or smooth. Each style is engineered specifically to your climate with 30-year nonprorated warranties from James Hardie; professionals can assist in choosing and installing Hardie Plank styles according to climate; look for contractors with certification as Hardie Preferred contractors to ensure proper installation services are offered when installing Hardie Preferred contractor certification demonstrates they possess all training needed when installing such type of siding.
3. Install the New Siding
Prevent time and money loss by installing siding before winter arrives. Make sure there’s room for a dumpster to use during this process, as well as trimming trees and shrubs as necessary.
James Hardie plank lap siding comes with four different clap board exposure options – 4″,5″”,5′”, 6””, and 7″. Wider exposure options tend to cost more because they are considered premium products. To maintain maximum beauty for years to come, fiber cement siding should be regularly washed using low pressure garden hose to remove dirt and debris.
Siding that is resistant to rot, pests and severe weather conditions such as high winds is ideal for coastal homes. Furthermore, salt spray protection extends its life up to 50 years or longer, making this an attractive mid-priced home improvement option which can increase property values significantly.
4. Paint the New Siding
HardiePlank siding can withstand much abuse from nature’s elements, from fire hazards and hailstorms to extreme temperatures and rainfall. But extreme conditions, moisture intrusion, snowfall and time can still damage wood-clad homes over time – which makes home maintenance essential. Painting your HardiePlank siding regularly is one effective way of doing just that!
Before beginning painting, it is wise to spread some drop cloths over your landscaping to protect it from accidental drips of paint. Additionally, all edges should be sealed off using waterproof caulk to avoid moisture gathering under the siding and leading to black mold formation.
When selecting paint colors, neutral or lighter hues tend to be best as darker ones absorb heat more and can cause warping or buckleing over time. Furthermore, check with your homeowners association as there may be restrictions regarding which hues can be selected.