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The Steps To Install James Hardie Siding in Southeastern PA

One of the many reasons that homeowners love James Hardie siding is that the company has invested so much time doing research and development to create the best possible siding product on the market. However, if you don’t select a contractor that knows all the steps to install Hardie siding correctly, your excitement over your new siding can quickly turn into a nightmare. 

Below, we outline the critical installation steps (that many contractors miss) and tips for choosing an experienced installer for your project.

Critical Steps to Install Hardie Siding

  • Install the water-resistant barrier over the step flashing and the roofing felt to prevent water damage to your home. 
  • Leave the bottom piece of the step flashing out and bent, to divert runoff water away from the wall. 
  • Extend the shingles at least 1-inch out from the fascia. 
  • Seal the cut edges of the siding. 
  • Ensure that the gutter and end cap end a minimum of 1-inch from the siding. 
  • Cut the trim block into two pieces to retrofit it around the existing vent. 
  • Ensure that the porch roof overhang equals the porch roof wall height. 
  • Leave a minimum of a ½-inch clearance between the trim and the horizontal surface of the siding. 
  • Leave a minimum of a 6-inch clearance between the bottom of the siding and the ground. 
  • Ensure there is a minimum of a ⅛-inch caulked gap between the siding and the side trim pieces. Do not caulk between the siding and the flashing. 
  • Leave a minimum of a 2-inch clearance from the highest point of decking. 

Failure to follow any of these steps during the James Hardie siding installation process could lead to structural issues or problems with your siding’s efficiency.

3 Qualities to Look for When Hiring a James Hardie Siding Contractor

So, how can you ensure that you hire a contractor that knows about all of the critical installation steps we’ve outlined above? Follow these tips when searching for a contractor. 

1. Hire a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor

James Hardie offers a Contractor Alliance program for installers that want to take the time to complete annual training about installation best practices for Hardie products. 

The highest recognition in this program is becoming an Elite Preferred Contractor, which requires training on installation requirements, a review of best practices, and a high level of customer satisfaction on previous projects. MHX Designs is proud to be an Elite Preferred Contractor so we can best serve our clients. 

2. Read Customer Reviews

Don’t forget to take some time to read through reviews from past customers before hiring a James Hardie installer. These testimonials will give you an unbiased look at what it’s like to work with a particular contractor, helping you to make a more informed decision. 

After all, who knows a contractor better than the customers who have hired the team in the past?

3. Look Through the Contractor’s Portfolio

Finally, before you decide which installer to hire, comb through their portfolio of past James Hardie installation projects. This will show you real before and after photos so you can get a better sense of the quality of installation and work that a contractor does. 

MHX Designs Is Your Local James Hardie Expert

When you’re planning your James Hardie siding installation, don’t risk hiring a contractor that doesn’t know the right steps to install Hardie siding. Instead, trust the MHX Designs teams. We’re proud to be your local James Hardie expert installer, with hundreds of successful projects under our belt. 

When you hire our team, we’ll work efficiently, using the James Hardie-recommended installation practices so your siding will last for decades. Contact us today to request a free quote for your project.