Have any of you used Hardi Panels (fiber/cement) for walls on an outbuilding? I need to remodel an old building with bare studs 24 inches on center and am wondering with the 5/16 panels can really hold up without something underneath them for support. They are rated for this spacing, just wanted to hear some real experience. Termites are an issue is this older building, would love to use this termite resistant material. Most of the panels will go up without cutting, so cutting shouldn’t be too big an issue , although I hear that it can be a bear. Is the score and break technique satisfactory on the 4×8 panels, or is it just for the smaller Hardi Planks? Thanks!
Woody
Replies
I did my dormers with 1/2" hardi panels over plywood sheathing. I think you will be better off cutting with a diamond blade. The score and break takes just as much time if not more.
Thanks for the info! I am hoping to do it without the plywood panels, due to the previous termite damage. I'm afraid they would be an invite for more trouble.Woody
Ther are special blades for your 7 1/4" saw to cut this stuff but its very dusty when doing so. Cutting does give a more controled result.
I believe Hardie panels are rated for sheer walls, so they'll be plenty strong for your shed. As for impact resistance, it's quite good. Many homes today are sheathed in vinyl over insulation board and have so little impact resistance that burglars punch right through the wall and walk in.
If your framing is pressure treated, be sure to use the nails rated to resist corrosion from the lumber.
Thanks, exactly what I needed to know. I hate vinyl siding, have that one the lake house. Will likely consider Hardi planks for that. I will use 6d (2 in) hot dipped galvanized in my framing nailer.Woody