Choosing James Hardie fiber cement siding is a fantastic decision for protecting and beautifying your home. You’ve selected a material known for its durability, fire resistance, and stunning looks. But the quality of the material is only half the equation. The success of your project and the long-term performance of your siding depend entirely on the installation process.
Unlike DIY-friendly materials, James Hardie siding requires specialized tools, techniques, and a deep understanding of the manufacturer’s strict guidelines. This guide breaks down the professional installation process from start to finish, so you know exactly what to expect when you partner with an expert team like Hexteriors.
Step 1: The Initial Consultation and Project Planning
Every successful siding project begins with a thorough consultation. This is where we lay the groundwork for a smooth and efficient process.
- On-Site Evaluation: A project manager from Hexteriors will visit your home to take precise measurements, assess the current condition of your exterior, and identify any potential challenges, such as existing wall damage or structural quirks.
- Design and Style Selection: We’ll discuss your vision for your home. This is the fun part where you choose your James Hardie products, including the style (HardiePlank®, HardiePanel®, HardieShingle®), texture, and colors. We can provide samples and show you examples to help you visualize the final look.
- Detailed Proposal: Following the consultation, you will receive a comprehensive, transparent proposal. This document outlines the full scope of work, the specific materials to be used, the project timeline, and a detailed cost breakdown. There are no hidden fees or surprises.
Step 2: Preparation and Material Delivery
Once you approve the proposal, we move into the preparation phase. Our team coordinates all the logistics to ensure everything is ready for installation day.
- Material Ordering: We place the order for all your James Hardie siding, trim, and necessary accessories. We ensure the correct products and colors are sourced for your project.
- Permit Acquisition: If your local municipality in Sacramento, the Bay Area, or the Lake Tahoe region requires a permit for re-siding, our team will handle the application and approval process for you.
- Site Preparation: Before the crew arrives, we ask homeowners to clear the area around the house. This includes moving patio furniture, potted plants, and any other obstacles to provide a safe and clear workspace.
- Material Delivery: Your new siding and all related materials will be delivered to your property. Our team ensures the materials are stored correctly to prevent any damage before installation begins.
Step 3: Removal of Old Siding and Wall Inspection
With the site prepped, our professional crew gets to work. The first major task is to remove the old siding.
- Careful Demolition: The crew will carefully tear off your old siding, whether it’s vinyl, wood, aluminum, or stucco. We work methodically to minimize disruption to your property and landscaping.
- Sheathing Inspection: Once the old siding is removed, the home’s sheathing (the layer of wood beneath the siding) is exposed. This is a critical checkpoint. We thoroughly inspect the sheathing for any signs of water damage, dry rot, or pest infestation.
- Necessary Repairs: If any damage is found, we will document it and discuss the necessary repairs with you before proceeding. Addressing these underlying issues is essential for the long-term integrity of your home and the new siding.
Step 4: Installing the Weather Barrier
Before any siding goes on, we must create a protective envelope around your home. This is where the weather-resistive barrier (WRB), like HardieWrap®, comes in.
The WRB is a crucial component that prevents water and air from infiltrating your walls while allowing moisture vapor to escape. Our factory-trained installers will expertly apply the barrier, properly flashing all windows and doors and sealing all seams according to James Hardie’s best practices. This step is vital for preventing moisture damage and is a requirement for the warranty.
Step 5: The Expert Installation of James Hardie Siding
This is where craftsmanship and expertise truly shine. Installing fiber cement is a precise science that our Hexteriors team has perfected.
- Specialized Tools: We use tools designed specifically for fiber cement, including special saws with dust-reducing technology and pneumatic nailers calibrated to the correct pressure.
- Proper Clearances: Our installers follow James Hardie’s guidelines for clearances, ensuring the siding is spaced correctly off of roofs, decks, and the ground to prevent moisture wicking.
- Blind Nailing: Whenever possible, we use a “blind nailing” technique where the fasteners are hidden by the plank above. This creates a cleaner, more professional finish without visible nail heads.
- Flashing and Trim: We install all necessary flashing around windows, doors, and transition areas to direct water away from the walls. We then expertly fit the HardieTrim® boards to create crisp, clean lines around corners, windows, and doors.
Step 6: Finishing Touches, Cleanup, and Final Inspection
A quality job isn’t complete until the site is pristine and the work is double-checked.
- Caulking and Sealing: We apply a high-quality, paintable sealant to any gaps as required by James Hardie specifications to create a final weather-tight seal. If you chose pre-primed siding for custom painting, this is when that process would occur.
- Thorough Cleanup: Our crew conducts a meticulous cleanup of the job site. We remove all debris, sweep for nails, and leave your property looking as good as, if not better than, when we arrived.
- Final Walk-Through: Once the project is complete, we conduct a final walk-through with you. We’ll review the finished work, answer any questions you may have, and ensure you are 100% satisfied with the transformation of your home.
The Hexteriors Difference: Your Local Installation Experts
The longevity and warranty of your James Hardie siding are directly tied to the quality of the installation. As a premier installer serving Sacramento, the Bay Area, and Lake Tahoe, Hexteriors is committed to upholding the highest standards of craftsmanship. Our teams are factory-trained and deeply experienced with James Hardie products, ensuring every detail is handled correctly.
Ready to Start Your Siding Project?
Understanding the installation process helps you appreciate the value of hiring a true professional. If you’re ready to invest in a beautiful, durable exterior that will last for decades, trust the experts at Hexteriors.
Contact us today for a complimentary, no-obligation consultation. Let us walk you through the process and show you how we can bring your vision to life with a flawless James Hardie siding installation.
