Will Hardie board warp?

HardiePlank® is a fiber cement based siding, so it's impervious to water, termites, woodpeckers, and any other animal you can think of. It's dimensionally stable so it won't warp like wood or vinyl siding can, and it won't melt or warp when heat is applied to it.

Does fiber cement siding warp?

Fiber Cement Siding

Though cement fiber siding can last for many decades, occasionally, even fiber cement may have problems. Rarely, especially in humid climates, cement siding may warp.

Can Hardie board get water damage?

Fiber cement siding is a hard, brittle product. One of the worst problems with Hardie siding is moisture damaged which can be caused by cracking. Water will run down from this sill, absorb into the siding, get behind into the sheathing and possibly the frame, causing all sorts of eventual problems.

Does Hardie board deteriorate?

Absorptive claddings like fiber cement can hold moisture, leading to panel damage, rot, and even mold problems.

What happens if Hardie plank gets wet?

If Hardie is installed too close to these surfaces, there is a chance that the paint will start to bubble and peel. This happens because the boards are wet almost all the time, and the water in the board will start to expand and contract as the temperature changes.

3 Common Installation Issues with James Hardie Siding

Can cement board be left out on the rain?

Most concrete backer-boards on the market today are not water-resistant, but all are waterproof. Since many people confuse the terms, it is a common misconception that this is the best material for use inside a shower or tub area.

Should Hardie board be caulked?

James Hardie DOES NOT recommend using caulk or “H”-jointers for the butt joints of HardiePlank® siding with ColorPlus® technology. James Hardie also DOES NOT recommend applying caulk to the horizontal overlap between siding planks (see Figure 2).

What is the life expectancy of Hardie board?

Hardie Board siding is a greater financial investment than vinyl siding, but it lasts longer too. So as you consider this aspect of your decision, realize you will enjoy this outstanding siding for up to 50 years.

How long should Hardie board siding last?

With the proper care, your James Hardie fiber cement siding will outlast its 30-year warranty. It can even last up to 50 years if cared for properly.

What causes Hardie board to crack?

Improper handling - The boards—especially long ones—should be supported at both ends when moved. Fiber cement planks are floppy until secured on the wall and holding only in the middle or transporting over a shoulder will cause a dramatic sag at both ends. The stress can cause a crack at the center of a board.

Does Hardie siding expand and contract?

Fiber cement (complying with ASTM C1186), as do all building materials, expands and contracts with changes in relative humidity and temperature. James Hardie recommends designing for this type of movement on buildings with long runs of continuous siding.

Is Hardie board better than vinyl siding?

By contrast, Hardie® fiber cement siding is more durable and up to 5x thicker than vinyl siding. It easily stands up to the elements, resisting damage from wind, rain, freezing temperatures and hail, and gives homes years of protection with low maintenance.

How often does Hardie board need to be painted?

Hardie Plank is also called fiber cement siding. While it's far heavier than aluminum, vinyl or wood, it is extremely durable and typically only needs a new paint every ten to twenty years for maintenance. It is one of the best materials and long-term solutions for protecting your home.

Can you pressure wash Hardie plank?

The manufacturer recommends that you do not pressure wash your Hardie siding. The hard spray of water from the power washer can damage the surface of the siding. In fact, pressure washing fiber cement siding is one of the only ways you can damage this durable type of siding.

Should Hardie board be loose?

If you have loose HardiePlank siding on your home, it is important to fix it. Loose siding can leave your home unprotected from weather and insects. HardiePlank is fastened to the home by either blind nailing or face nailing.

Will cement board rot outside?

In sharp contrast, cement backer board does not rot, warp, grow mold, or deteriorate when subjected to water.

Does Hardie board increase value of home?

James Hardie Siding Does Increase the Resale Value of Your Home. Whether or not if you're deciding to sell your home, having James Hardie Siding is going be one of the best investments you'll ever make. According to Family Handyman, you can recoup as much as 76% of the upfront cost of it upon the sale of your home.

Does hardiplank need to be replaced?

While James Hardie Siding is fire-resistant, it may still show signs of damage if it's been exposed to fire and will need to be replaced as a result. To maintain the integrity of your home's siding, you'll want to replace the affected areas with new HardiePlank.

What is the difference between Hardie board and cement board?

HardieBacker is much more light, and it is also the best selling brand of cement board available. It is much cleaner because it does not have any glass in it. It allows for a smooth job with minimal mess. As a bonus, HardieBacker board has an EZ Grid pattern so you can cut perfect lines.

How do you maintain Hardie board?

Wash down the exterior surfaces every 6 to 12 months with a garden hose to remove dirt and debris, gently clean your siding with a soft brush or wet soft cloth in a side to side motion in the direction of the plank siding.

Does Hardie board siding rot?

And the answer is a resounding NO! James Hardie® siding, unlike wood or vinyl siding, will not rot, warp, or burn. HardiePlank® is a fiber cement based siding, so it's impervious to water, termites, woodpeckers, and any other animal you can think of.

Is Hardie board waterproof?

Tested & Proven Waterproofness

No water penetration through Hardie® Backer Board with HydroDefense™ Technology during 48-hour hydrostatic test. HardieBacker® Cement Board with HydroDefense™ Technology is a long-lasting, waterproof solution for walls, floors, and countertops.

Do you leave a gap between Hardie board siding?

Run the siding to the HardieTrim® board leaving a 1/8 in. gap between the siding and trim. The bottom of the siding should be kept even with the bottom of the trim, or if desired, the trim may extend below the bottom of the siding. But the siding should never hang below the trim.

Do you nail or screw Hardie board?

Fasten HardieBacker sheets with proper nails or screws (as listed in ''Materials Required'' in the backer installation instructions) every 8'' around the perimeter and all supporting studs. Keep fasteners between 3/8'' and 3/4'' from sheet edges and 2'' in from sheet corners.

Does caulking Hardie board void the warranty?

These such areas are called “field butt joints.” In the case of James Hardie's Color Plus siding, which has a pro-rated 15-year warranty, using caulk at field butt joints will flat out void your warranty!