Caulking Hardie Plank Siding
When james hardie siding products butt into wood based materials a 1 8 gap will allow for expansion and contraction of the wood based product.
Caulking hardie plank siding. Trim boards that sit on top the siding. Wherever hardie siding meets a trim board the company recommends you leave a 1 8 gap between the siding and the trim and apply a 3 8 bead of approved caulking to protect and seal the edge of the siding. James hardie believes it is good building practice to seal the joints to prevent moisture such as wind driven rain and snow from penetrating the wall cavity. Rubber adhesive sealant caulk by flex shot best caulk for hardie board and interior objects.
It s also recommended to use a cloth or rag ready to wipe up and smooth excess caulking before it sets on the siding what should never be caulked. If nail is countersunk caulk nail hole and add a nail. 801 caulk 10 1 oz by dap best exterior caulk for hardiplank siding. Hardie no longer recommends the caulking of any joint in their lap siding colorplus or primed.
Electro galvanized nails are acceptable for use with james hardie siding products but may exhibit premature corrosion. James hardie also does not recommend applying caulk to the horizontal overlap between siding planks see figure 2. Fasteners must be corrosion resistant galvanized or stainless steel. In the old days the builder would install the trim bring the siding up to it and caulk the corner.
Deterioration of the caulking in the joint has become a maintenance issue for home owners over time. How much expansion contraction is going to take place with this siding. James hardie recommends the use of quality hot dipped galvanized nails. All weather window door max shield by ge sealants and adhesive best caulking for hardie board siding in budget.
James hardie does not recommend using caulk or h jointers for the butt joints of hardieplank siding with colorplus technology. Caulking around windows doors eaves and trim edges gives added insurance that leaks will not occur.