Hardie plank siding is an attractive and cost-effective choice for homeowners. Not only does it add value and are easy to maintain, they have an appealing appearance and fire-resistance features as well as being attractive features of any property.
Hardie board siding is insect-proof, so it won’t attract termites or woodpeckers like other forms of siding do. Furthermore, moisture resistance ensures your home won’t be at risk from rot or mold growth.
Removing the Existing Siding
HardiPlank siding replacement can add great curb appeal and protect against the elements – two very important considerations for any homeowner.
Replacing siding is an advanced DIY task, so be sure to equip yourself with all of the right tools before beginning this task. Circular saws are ideal for cutting through vinyl and stucco easily while being time-saving devices that help speed up the project.
Begin by removing the trim around the damaged area to gain access to any nails underneath. A cat’s paw pry bar features sharp claws that grip individual nails and force them out when hit with a hammer; saving time by eliminating having to grip each individual nail individually without risking breaking off an additional piece of siding that doesn’t need replacing.
Prepping the Substrate
Hardie board siding is durable, yet it may become damaged over time due to various sources. Water damage, infiltration from pests or structural issues should all be addressed before installing new siding panels. Repair any damages first so as to ensure optimal performance for installation purposes.
If the siding is in good condition, it may be possible to use it as the substrate for new installation. This option often proves cheaper than purchasing and installing sheathing for new installation projects as new sheathing may be costly.
Before being used as a substrate, existing wood siding must meet certain requirements. It should be flat and free from gaps, rot and damage. Furthermore, sheathing should be checked for signs of fungi; should any be detected they should be sprayed with Ceresit CT 99 Fungicide spray to help stop any future outbreaks and ensure its integrity remains.
Installing the Weather Barrier
Once your surface is prepared, Hardie Weather Barrier should be added as a protective layer between structural walls and your new Hardie plank siding. This non-woven house wrap provides extra moisture protection between them both and ensures smooth installation of Hardie planks.
Weather barriers allow rain, snow and moisture to drain through walls rather than behind siding panels, thus helping reduce air infiltration which could otherwise lead to mold or mildew growth. They also serve to protect the wall itself from being stained or chipped away as rain falls on it from behind it.
HardiePlank lap siding features baked-on color that resists fading, as well as being certified with the Good Housekeeping Seal to prove it has undergone rigorous tests and will stand the test of time.
Installers will first set the initial course of Hardie plank siding. A starter strip must be installed overhanging sheathing and stud locations to give greater stability for this installation. After this first piece is in place, subsequent courses can be fitted and nailed using pneumatic coil siding nailers with blind nailing capabilities for optimal results.
Installing the Hardie Siding
Hardieplank siding can last decades if installed correctly and remains resistant to moisture, rot, insects and hail damage, while being more energy efficient than other forms of exterior siding.
Before embarking on any re-siding project, it is vitally important that you hire qualified professionals. Be sure to hire those certified in Hardie board installation as well as those experienced with using materials. Obtain references and read online reviews prior to making your selection.
James Hardie siding’s unique combination of cement and composite materials make it a durable, long-term product designed to withstand the elements. Unlike wood siding, fiber cement doesn’t retain moisture or expand or contract when exposed to humidity, giving it greater resistance against swelling or rotting compared to wood. Due to baked-on ColorPlus technology, James Hardie will require less frequent repainting and help lower long-term maintenance costs by requiring less paint jobs over its lifespan than traditional siding does.