Hardie plank siding provides a robust and appealing way to safeguard your home. It can withstand wind gusts, heavy rainfall and the elements more effectively than vinyl or wood options while offering better fire resistance than either material.
However, like any exterior surface it can become damaged over time by weather and time itself. Find out how to replace hardiplank siding here.
Materials
Home exteriors are subjected to various weather conditions every day, which can damage even the most resilient materials. Rain, hail, wind, snow and ice can have a drastic impact on both their appearance and integrity of siding materials. When damage occurs, appropriate steps can be taken to repair it quickly so your siding continues to look its best for years to come.
Fiber cement siding is durable and weather resistant, made up of Portland cement, cellulose fibers, and sand. While its appearance resembles that of wood siding, its fireproof qualities make it a superior option.
Plywood siding resists moisture penetration, helping prevent the rotting and swelling caused by other materials. Maintenance usually only requires using a power washer to wash it clean. Before installation you will require galvanized or stainless steel nails, weather-resistant barriers, caulking, eye protection and dust mask.
Tools
Hardie board siding comes in planks, panels or shingles for a traditional, modern or rustic aesthetic and offers exceptional resistance against cracking, chipping and warping – perfect for homes located in wildfire-prone regions. Plus it is fire-resistant!
if you plan on installing Hardie board yourself, it is crucial that you have the appropriate tools. A tape measure and chalk line will help create straight and level reference lines when positioning the siding. A circular saw equipped with blade compatible with fiber cement shears can cut boards to the exact length. In addition, a hammer or nail gun may be necessary to fasten it into place.
Maintaining your siding requires regular cleaning to prevent dirt and debris from collecting over time. Also be sure to caulk around its edges so as to create a watertight seal against water damage in your home’s interior.
Preparation
HardiePlank fiber cement siding is an aesthetically pleasing investment in your home that’s resistant to fire, insects and water damage – long enough for it to hold its color longer than wood! Plus it could even pay dividends when selling.
Requiring less maintenance than wood or vinyl decks, composite requires two coats of high-quality exterior paint for its proper care and upkeep. Furthermore, its protective coat resists weathering while offering Class A fire rating protection – while also being insect and ant proof thanks to its thick construction.
Before installing new siding on your home, ensure it’s prepared by clearing away loose or rotting boards, trimming back existing trim, caulking around windows and doors and eaves and using caulk with a permanent flexible seal to prevent moisture entering wall cavities and potentially causing damage – this will also keep it looking brand new for decades!
Installation
HardiePlank siding may cost more than its vinyl counterpart, but its benefits make the price worthwhile. Resembling natural wood, you can paint HardiePlank to match any colour scheme imaginable – ideal if you want a wood effect!
Another advantage is durability. Engineered specifically to suit your climate, fiber cement panels can withstand rain, snow, hail, humidity and heat as well as resist cracking and warping – and with special fiber cement fabrication techniques it even resists woodpeckers and termites!
As part of the installation process, it is vital to take precautionary steps and use suitable tools. A ladder should be used for reaching higher areas on exterior walls while protective gloves and safety glasses should be worn when cutting fiber cement boards. A circular saw should also be utilized for quick cuts as well as level for double checking that everything is straight.