How to Install Hardiplank

House sided with HardiPlank

HardiPlank™ is the registered trademark name for fiber cement lap siding manufactured by James Hardie International. It is available with a variety of textured finishes to give you the look and feel of wood siding, yet the product is resistant to fire, termites and rot. What's more, it comes sealed and primed, ready for you to paint in your favorite color scheme. Take the time to install it correctly to ensure that the product performs to your expectations.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure Cutting tool (circular saw or shears) Steady surface for cutting planks Nails Hammer Scaffolding 1/4-inch lath HardiPlank Moisture-resistant barrier sheet

Instructions

1. Decide whether you will face nail or blind nail your HardiPlank™ to install it. The difference? Face nails go into the face of the plank and are visible when the job is done; blind nails are hidden by the layer of planks above. Use galvanized 6d nails or 2-inch siding nails for face nailing; use 2-inch siding nails or 11ga roofing nails for blind nailing.

2. Install HardiPlank™ directly over wood or steel studs (16 or 24 iinches on center) or directly to 7/16-inch sheathing. You can also install it over foam insulation. The manufacturer warns that you must include a water-resistant barrier under the product (roofing felt is a cost-effective moisture barrier) to keep water out.

3. Before you start installing your siding, install a strip of 1/4-inch lath along the entire length of the wall at its base. When you nail your first course of planks over the lath, your planks will be set at the correct angle.

4. Measure and cut your siding planks to length with shears (the preferred method) or with a circular saw using a carbide-tipped blade. You can also use a carbide score and snap knife to score the planks prior to snapping them.

5. Install the first course of planks over the water-resistant barrier, flush with the bottom of the lath strip. Attach planks to studs with a nail. If you are face nailing, drive nails 3/4 to 1 inch above bottom of plank. If you are blind nailing, drive nails 1 inch below top of plank. Drive your nails in straight and make sure they are flush with the surface of the plank. Do not overpound the nails -- you don't want to leave indentations in the planking.

6. When you get to the end of a plank, place your last nail 3/8 inch from the end. Butt the ends of two planks so there is some modest contact between them. If you leave a space between planks, you'll need to caulk it when you finish the job.

7. 

   Install your second course of planking (and all subsequent courses) with a minimum 1 1/4-inch overlap (remember, it's lap siding) over the course below. Stagger your joints to help keep moisture out of the walls.

Tips & Warnings

• Maintain all recommended clearances when installing HardiPlank™: 6 inches to the finished grade on your building's exterior and 1 inch to 2 inches between the product and your roof, deck or walk. Always wear eye protection in your construction work area. When working with power tools, use ear protection as well.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• HardiePlank Website