Proper Hardie Plank Siding Installation

At Bandera Construction Co., we take every step necessary to ensure your Hardie Plank Siding installation is done right the first time. Here’s why these details matter and how we provide a top-tier installation that will keep your warranty intact.

1. Proper Handling and Storage

Hardie Plank Siding is heavy and brittle, so it must be stored and handled correctly before installation. Improper handling can lead to cracks or warping, compromising its performance over time.

• Storage: We always store Hardie Plank Siding flat and off the ground to prevent bending or breakage.
• Moisture Protection: If the siding absorbs moisture before installation, it can lead to swelling and future issues. Our team ensures all materials are kept dry and covered until they are ready to be installed.

2. Correct Installation of the Moisture Barrier

The moisture barrier is a crucial layer of defense for your home. Without it, water can penetrate behind the siding, leading to rot, mold, and structural damage.

• Quality Materials: We use a high-quality weather-resistant barrier (like house wrap or felt paper) beneath every Hardie Plank.
• Sealing the Seams: Our team ensures proper overlapping and taping of the seams of the weather-resistant house wrap or felt paper to prevent water intrusion, a step many contractors neglect.

3. Correct Fastening Techniques

Using the proper fasteners and installation methods ensures that your Hardie Plank Siding remains secure and crack-free for years to come.

• Quality Materials: We use only galvanized or corrosion-resistant stainless steel nails.
• Secure Install: Each fastener is driven into studs with a penetration depth of at least 1¼ inches to maximize hold strength.
• No Cracking: Nails are placed in the designated nailing strip, never too close to the edge,s to prevent cracking.
• Flush Surfaces: We take care not to overdrive fasteners, ensuring they are flush with the siding surface rather than recessed.

4. Proper Overlap and Expansion Gaps

Hardie Plank Siding expands and contracts with temperature changes, so it must be installed with the correct spacing.

• Overlapping: Each plank is overlapped by at least 1¼ inches to ensure adequate water runoff.
• Allowing for Expansion: We leave ⅛-inch gaps at butt joints and around trim for expansion, sealing them with premium caulk to maintain a watertight seal.

5. Flashing at Joints

Flashing is one of the most overlooked yet essential aspects of Hardie Plank Siding installation. Water will enter any unprotected seams, leading to structural damage.

• Never Skip on Flashing: We install flashing behind every vertical butt joint to redirect moisture away from the home.
• Preventing Leaks: Z-flashing is correctly placed above doors, windows, and horizontal trim boards to avoid water pooling and penetration.

6. Correct Cutting Techniques

Improper cutting of Hardie Plank Siding can cause premature failure and pose health risks.

• Clean Cuts Every Time: We always use fiber cement saw blades with dust collection systems to ensure precise, clean cuts.
• Clean Work Environment: Cutting is performed outdoors or in a well-ventilated area to prevent silica dust buildup, and all crew members wear protective masks to ensure safety.

7. Caulking and Sealing

Many contractors make the mistake of caulking in the wrong places or using low-quality sealants.

• Quality Materials: We use only high-quality, paintable, exterior-grade caulk at all necessary joints to maintain a durable seal.
• Allow for Drainage: Horizontal lap seams are never caulked. They must be left open to allow proper drainage and prevent water from getting trapped behind the siding.

8. Proper Clearance from the Ground and Roof

Clearance requirements are crucial to prevent moisture damage and ensure long-term durability.

• Ground Clearance: We maintain at least six inches of clearance from the ground to prevent water wicking.
• Deck and Patio Clearance: To reduce exposure to pooling moisture, siding is installed two inches above decks, patios, and hardscaping.
• Prevent Water Penetration: At rooflines and trim, we leave a ¼-inch gap and seal it with caulk to prevent water intrusion while allowing for natural movement.