HardiePlank siding from James Hardie is one of their best-selling products and it can be seen protecting homes across America. With features that provide resilience against weather, fire, pests and time.
Fiber cement siding is composed of Portland cement, sand and cellulose fiber and comes in various styles to meet different aesthetic preferences. Furthermore, its durability makes maintenance hassle-free.
Measure the Damage
Under proper care and maintenance, fiber cement siding can look beautiful while lasting much longer than vinyl, wood or aluminum options. However, just like any product in the home it may become damaged over time; if this occurs for you it’s wise to assess what damage has occurred and consult an expert in siding repair as soon as possible.
An experienced carpenter will understand how to best conduct repairs and install new boards properly – this will prevent moisture from seeping behind and creating additional issues.
To maintain the appearance of your siding, it’s recommended that it is cleaned twice annually with a low pressure water spray* and soft medium bristle non-metal siding cleaning brush. Acidic cleaners such as those found in cleaning solutions should be avoided as these can damage its surface. For optimal results, work in small sections at a time and rinse frequently until completed.
Remove the Damaged Boards
An attractive home exterior that stands up to the elements is an invaluable investment for any homeowner, which explains why James Hardie fiber cement lap siding – often known as Hardiplank or concrete siding – has become so wildly popular with Americans.
LP SmartSide siding provides long-term protection from moisture, fire, and pest damage. Available in lap, board-and-batten, shingle-style shakes, and textured panels styles and textures, its versatility provides versatile styling.
But like any material, siding needs to be properly cared for to extend its lifespan. One way of doing this is to regularly inspect its surface for signs of damage or wear, and address any problems as soon as they arise. In particular, look out for these telltale signs that your siding could be compromised:
Install the New Boards
HardiePlank siding is an ideal option for anyone seeking a long-term and durable form of protection for their home, while simultaneously adding modern sophistication.
When it comes to hardiplank siding repairs, quality materials should always be used. Caulking all seams will prevent moisture from penetrating the walls and leading to further damage.
Keep extra boards on hand so you can quickly replace damaged ones when necessary. Also make sure that when working with James Hardie products you use only hot-dip galvanized nails and stainless steel screws – anything less may rust and stain the siding! Nails must penetrate at least 1-1/4″ into solid sheathing (OSB or plywood count as solid sheathing; foam does not). This ensures your siding stands up against weather elements.
Caulk the Seams
Hardie plank siding may be more costly than other forms of siding, but it adds great value to your home and has proven more weather-resistant than vinyl or wood options.
In order to maximize your investment, hire a contractor trained by James Hardie. Aim for one with Hardie Preferred Contractor certification as this indicates they have been scrutinized for installation quality and commitment to your project’s success.
Be sure to insist that your contractor uses color matched caulking for any touch ups, since some contractors try to save a few dollars by using caulk instead of joint flashing that suits the siding better and which looks much worse over time. Clean your fiber cement siding every 6-12 months using low pressure garden hose watering with garden hose, to keep it looking like new; plus this type of material is resistant to termite or carpenter ant infestations!