Fiber cement siding has been around for about one hundred years, and is finally gaining popularity thanks to its unmatched durability and aesthetic beauty. Much technological advancement has been made since James Hardie invented the process of combining sand, cement and cellulose fiber into a siding product that can withstand some of the harshest climates and stand up to high winds and hail. This product is known as Hardiplank siding.
Hardiplank siding is available in many shapes, sizes and finishes and can be custom ordered to match your existing home style. You can achieve a wooden look or a stucco appearance with certain finishes of Hardiplank siding. Because it is made of fiber cement, this type of siding is termite, rot and fire resistant. Furthermore, Jamies Hardie siding comes with a 50 year or lifetime warranty – a warranty that no other siding manufacturer can match.
You may wish to have Hardiplank siding installed on your home. If so, there are some things you need to take into account. First, research reputable contracting companies that have experience and are skilled in installaing this type of siding. Ask questions about the manufacturer’s warranty and find out what – if any – maintenance you’ll need to do on the product. Check with your town or city’s local business codes. Some installations of fiber cement siding may require a permit. Also, some building and construction methods will differ from town to town and region to region, depending on climate and other environmental factors.
Make sure that your delivery of Hardiplank siding stays dry and off the ground. It should be covered with plastic sheeting or a tarp to avoid moisture. When it comes time to cut and trim the fiber cement siding, you’ll need a diamond-carbide skill saw. You should perform all cuts with the finished side down to ensure a clean seam. Be sure to wear ear, eye and mouth protection, because sawing through Hardiplank is loud and small pieces of fiber cement can lodge into your eyes and airway, if not protected.
Of course, installation of James Hardie-invented siding should be left to the professionals. They will make certain the nails they use are of proper durability, either rust-free stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized. Nails can be color-matched to blend evenly with the fiber cement siding.
You’ll also notice that siding contractors will install all the exterior trim before they install the Hardiplank siding. All cut ends and butt joints will be properly caulked and painted to keep moisture out, and flashing will be installed where siding and trim meet.
Skilled contracting companies who specialize in the installation of Hardiplank siding will make sure your home has properly installed siding that looks clean and professional. You will have a house that can look great and remain protected from the elements for many, many years to come.