Fiber cement siding is an increasingly popular choice for homeowners. Not only can it add value to your property, but it can also withstand harsh climates with ease.
Wood-look composite is fire-resistant and does not attract pests like termites and ants like wood would, while also offering two different textures – Cedarmill and Smooth. Furthermore, this material does not attract termites or ants for that matter!
Removing the Existing Siding
Home curb appeal is determined by many elements, from color and architectural style to HardiePlank lap siding’s versatile range of colors, textures, and details that complement any architectural style or period of your house. HardiePlank lap siding provides timeless beauty or modern sophistication – whether your goal is classic beauty or modern sophistication – so whether your aim is classic beauty or modern sophistication HardiePlank can help. Featuring color choices of your choosing with both smooth surfaces as well as more intricate patterns to match with existing structures.
Before installing any new siding, remove all existing materials. This step is critical for proper installation and to preventing moisture damage to walls. Use a pry bar and utility knife to carefully unhook existing materials from walls before cleaning and priming walls for new siding installation.
James Hardie siding is highly resilient, but even it is susceptible to wear and tear. To help monitor any signs of damage in time to make repairs when necessary. Any wear larger than a dime should be addressed immediately with new panels being added as replacements.
Cutting the Hardie Planks
Fiber cement siding can be difficult to work with, so for optimal results it is wise to have two people working on your project at all times. Furthermore, wearing protective gloves, eye/ear protection and an N-95 dust mask is imperative to ensuring its success.
To safely cut Hardie board, it is advised that a power tool fitted with a special blade designed for cutting cement board be used. Regular saws may damage the siding and create an unsafe working environment.
Hardie plank siding stands up well over time compared to vinyl, which tends to crack and warp over time. Furthermore, it’s considerably less expensive than other forms of siding; can be easily installed using hand or pneumatic nailers and needs no special coating or sealants for optimal use. James Hardie recommends selecting caulking/sealant that remains permanently flexible (as indicated on its label or literature).
Installing the New Siding
James Hardie lap siding is designed to withstand wear-and-tear from all sorts of hazards such as weather, wind, fire, pests and time; however, it’s still susceptible to some form of damage and requires repair every now and then.
At first, it is necessary to inspect your existing siding to assess what damage has been sustained over the years. If any repairs are minor, you can perform them yourself using putty to keep your house looking great.
If there is extensive damage, professional assistance may be necessary before beginning to install hardiplank siding yourself; you will require a hardie-specific nail gun in order to do it perfectly.
When nailing, make sure you use siding nails at the base and roofing nails at the top. Also, caulk any seams where moisture may enter; select a flexible caulk option to prevent leaks.
Caulking the Seams
Though James Hardie lap siding is highly durable, nicks, scrapes and nail holes may occur over time and necessitate the installation of new pieces in affected areas.
Caulking seams seals is an effective way to seal gaps and keep moisture out, particularly wind-driven rain or snow, from entering wall cavities and becoming trapped there. As part of best building practice, exterior wall seams should always be caulked for maximum effectiveness.
Caulking fiber cement doesn’t need to be as complex as caulking other types of cladding such as vinyl, wood or aluminum. A simple yet effective caulking compound made up of linseed oil putty mixed with red lead powder will do the job easily and efficiently.
If your new pieces of James Hardie siding were not factory primed, you will need to apply an exterior-grade acrylic topcoat in order to protect it from moisture and the elements while providing a beautiful finishing touch for the exterior of your home. This step should ensure its long-term functionality as well as provide aesthetic value.