Hardy Plank™ is the trade name for one brand of fiber cement siding, there are numerous other brands that are similar. These siding products manufactured with a wood grain finish, resemble conventional wood lap siding when installed. It is a man made product that has very few drawbacks verses similar looking lap siding made of compressed wood fiber (OSB) or hardboard (similar to pegboard).
These types of siding are concrete-based and extremely durable. They do not rot or deteriorate, and with proper installation and maintenance they without deterioration.
The siding does need to be painted, it is not pre finished.
This type of siding is one of the better siding products available on the market today. As with all types of exterior siding, annual maintenance, caulking etc. is still necessary.
During installation proper handling procedures must be followed as these products are easily damaged or broken. Nails should not be exposed (visible) they should be at the top of each board and covered by the board above. If the boards are nailed to tight to the structure they may warp and bow. Joints should not be caulked and must have flashing behind the joint. (Flashing can be a strip of aluminum, roofing felt or house wrap
NOTE: For the “do-it yourself” siding installer, be prepared to buy a lot of (special) blades for your miter saw the “concrete” will take the edge off them in no time. Be warned that the dust generated when cutting the siding will get into the motor and the bearings of your saw, considerably shortening it’s life.
For more detailed information on this type of siding product contact Lowe’s or Home Depot, most branches in our area have it available.
