10 Most Common Install Errors with James Hardie Siding
As with anything, there are certain tactics that have to be applied when dealing with the installation of James Hardie siding. If this is what you will be facing soon, we are striving to tell you more about it!
Error #1. Ignoring Thorough Preparation for the Installation
This is the first and foremost aspect to talk about. It’s a great idea to stick to the activities that have to be performed before the installation takes place. Here they are:
- Sheathing the walls with plywood or foam;
- Putting the house wrap or felt paper on the sheathing;
- Using the chalk to highlight the studs’ location.
Sure, there are those who can do this themselves but you’d better ask the representatives of the best siding companies to proceed with it as long as in this case, you will be certain that everything is being performed with proper care and attention.
Error #2. Neglecting Proper Conditions of Storing James Hardie Siding
This can actually spoil the whole thing! Stick to these simple rules to avoid major problems:
- Store James Hardie siding under the waterproof cover or indoors;
- Put it on a pallet. Otherwise, it is going to be threatened by ground moisture.
Error #3. Lack of Fasteners When Installing James Hardie
You must be aware of the fact that this kind of siding is rather flexible and some problems can take place when it gets windy. To avoid these issues, it is vital to secure siding well enough.
Actually, this is not going to be the case if you deal with the most reliable James Hardie siding installers.
Error #4. Using the Wrong Type of Fasteners for the Installation
Note that it is vital to apply corrosion-resistant ones. If this aspect is ignored, your favorite siding can suffer from stains (as a result of rust on the nails).
Error #5. Bad Touch-Ups as an Installation Mistake
The nails applied within the installation ought to be touched up to match the siding you have prepared. Using too much paint leads to a spotted look. And, color-matched caulking of the touch-ups for James Hardie is also a taboo.
Error #6. Proceed with Cutting James Hardie in the Right Way
Careless behavior when doing this can result in bad consequences for your health. The matter is that once you use the circular saw with a blade, there is a risk of forming clouds of dangerous dust. It is a great idea to apply a special blade from Hardie or stick to the guillotine type cutter.
Error #7. Installing James Hardie When It Is Wet
This aspect is mentioned in the instructions given by the manufacturer. So, if you do not want any extra problems, it is better to consider this too.
Error #8. Improper Tools Applied When Installing This Siding
There is a whole variety of instruments that cannot be used when dealing with this type of siding. We have already said that applying a circular saw is surely not the best idea.
The finest tools to deal with James Hardie are fiber-cement shears, scoring, and jigsaw.
Error #9. Leaving Gaps When Introducing a New James Hardie Siding to Your House
It is advisable to make joint placement as precise as possible. It is a very important criterion for qualitative installation.
Error #10. Installing James Hardie Siding Next to Some Particular Surfaces
It’s better to keep this kind of siding away from wet surfaces. In this case, the paint may start to bubble and peel. This refers to flowerbeds, driveways, etc.
Some Tips That Will Help to Install James Hardie Properly
First of all, it is a great idea to use the services of a trustworthy siding contractor. Do not try to save because it may result in bad consequences.
Also, if you are going to take part yourself, do not forget to wear protective goggles and an N-95 mask to avoid breathing dust in.
Besides, those who obtain James Hardie siding, receive the instructions along with it. it is essential to follow them as accurately as possible.
What kind of installation error have you already heard of?