What is Hardie Plank Siding Made of?

Hardie plank siding is made of a durable fiber-cement that is intended to last through extreme weather conditions and temperatures. What’s great about hardie plank siding is how versatile it is. While it’s very strong and durable, it also mimics the appearance of wood. This offers a great looking finish as well as reliable protection. There are a few special guidelines that must be considered when painting hardie plank siding. Read on to find out what they are and how you can achieve the best results.

Painting Hardie Plank Siding

Paint Soon After Installation

If you’re painting hardie plank siding, the best possible timeframe to begin is within 180 days (6 months) of installation. If your siding isn’t primed, this timeframe shortens to 90 days (3 months). This is really the case for all siding because, if left untreated or unmaintained, siding starts to deteriorate. However, if your siding isn’t brand new don’t worry, a thorough power wash before painting is the next best thing.

Power Wash

Before painting hardie plank, or before any type of exterior painting for that matter, your siding should be power washed. Even if you’re painting your hardie plank right after installation, a power wash is still necessary. This will remove any unwanted contaminants from the siding and will create an ideal surface for painting. Once all surfaces to be painted have been power washed thoroughly, let the area dry before painting.

Applying Paint

For hardie plank siding, a very good latex primer should be used to prepare the surface for paint. After your surfaces are primed it is strongly encouraged to use acrylic exterior paint for your home. Acrylic latex paint is best suited for hardie plank exteriors and will make a big difference in the look and quality of your painting project. The use of improper paint or primer can result in undesirable effects. For example, if you used an oil-based paint rather than acrylic, here are some of the issues that could occur:

• • Increased surface roughness
  • loss of adhesion
  • cracking
  • excessive chalking

Nobody wants to deal with these issues. If you’re apprehensive to pick a product, give us a call and we would be more than happy to give you a hand.

Use Joint Flashing… Not Caulk

Joint flashing is the recommended treatment for hardie plank siding as opposed to caulking. The use of caulk at field butt joints can compromise the finished look of hardie plank. James Hardie himself has spoken against using caulk on joints with his siding. This is a simple tip, but will save you lots of time and money in the long run.

Call a Professional

It is imperative to take the correct steps in maintaining your hardie plank siding. Considering these steps when painting your siding will not only protect your paint job, but it will also protect your home for years to come. If you have questions on how to properly care for and paint your hardie plank siding, call us here at Elite Pro and we will help in any way we can.