When it comes to renovating your home, installing new siding is a significant investment. James Hardie siding is known for its durability and aesthetic appeal. However, to make the most of this investment, it’s crucial to ensure that your Hardie siding has been installed correctly. In this article, we will discuss the importance of correct installation, provide a follow-up checklist, and share tips for homeowners to check installation quality.

Follow-up Checklist and Inspection

After your Hardie siding installation, it’s essential to have peace of mind regarding the quality of work done. James Hardie provides a follow-up checklist that covers all the major areas of the installation process. This checklist is your assurance that the siding has been installed per James Hardie’s specifications. It helps prevent future warranty issues, ensuring that your investment remains protected.

For added confidence, you can have a James Hardie area representative inspect your project and sign off on the checklist. This additional step ensures that your siding has been perfectly installed and that your warranty coverage remains intact.

Tips for Homeowners to Check Installation

As a homeowner, you can also take a proactive approach to check the installation of your Hardie siding. Here are some practical tips to help you evaluate the quality of the work:

• Board Gaps: Examine the gaps between the siding boards and elements like door frames. The recommended gap should be 3/16 inches to allow for contraction and expansion. Ensure that premium sealant, authorized by James Hardie, covers these gaps.
• Visual Inspection: Stand back and visually inspect the siding on your home. Check if it appears straight, level, and flat. Siding that looks wavy or uneven may indicate issues with the installation. Often, these problems stem from inadequate nail installation or improper preparation of the substrate.

Importance of House Wrap

One crucial aspect of a successful siding installation is the use of house wrap. This fabric barrier is placed beneath the siding and serves as a protective barrier against water and wind. Ensuring that the house wrap, such as Tyvek or another James Hardie-approved option, is installed properly is paramount. It should be completely and securely taped and tacked to provide lasting protection for your home.

Common Installation Mistakes

Even with the best intentions, installation errors can occur. One common mistake is altering the dimensions of the Hardie siding boards. James Hardie siding is designed to cover 7 ¼ inches on each board. Deviating from these specifications can lead to problems down the line. Some homeowners or contractors attempt to save money by expanding the length that each board covers. This can result in splintering and a less-than-ideal appearance.

Furthermore, nailing the siding too close to the edges can exacerbate this problem. To avoid such mistakes, it’s crucial to adhere to the James Hardie installation guidelines.

Conclusion and Assurance from Energy Pro

At Energy Pro, we are dedicated to ensuring that your Hardie siding has been installed correctly. We provide a comprehensive checklist of every step in the James Hardie installation process, and our commitment to quality extends to having a James Hardie representative personally inspect your project. Rest assured that your home’s exterior is in good hands with us, and we are here to help you protect your investment and enjoy the benefits of a beautiful and durable James Hardie siding.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact us for more information.