Is My Fibre Cement Cladding Installed Correctly?
Fibre cement cladding is an excellent choice for durable, low-maintenance, and weather-resistant exterior protection. However, even the best materials can fail if not installed correctly. Ensuring that your cladding is properly installed is crucial to extending its lifespan, protect your home from the elements, and meet safety standards.
We've put together a checklist that covers some critical aspects of correct fibre cement cladding installation, to help you determine if your cladding is installed correctly. From the placement of flyscreens to the correct fixings and spacing, let's dive in!
1. Flyscreen (Vent Profile)
Correct ventilation is key when it comes to fibre cement cladding. Without it, moisture can become trapped behind the cladding, leading to rot, mould, and reduced longevity. That’s why the installation of a flyscreen (vent profile) at the top and bottom of the cladding, as well as at any openings, is essential.
The flyscreen allows for airflow behind the cladding while preventing pests and debris from getting in. This helps the cladding dry out and ensures the longevity of the material by reducing the chance of moisture damage.
2. Correct Fixings
Using the correct fixings is critical to the stability of your fibre cement cladding. While nails are sometimes used, screws are preferred for the best hold and long-term durability. Screws provide stronger attachment points, reducing the risk of loosening over time, especially in areas exposed to high wind or weather conditions.
When selecting screws for your fibre cement cladding, make sure you follow the manufacturers guidelines. All screws must be stainless steel to avoid rust and staining on the cladding surface with recommended sizes:
Cedral Cladding - 4.0 x 45mm (38mm Batten)
James Hardie Cladding - 4.0 x 35mm (25mm Batten)
Supertech Cladding - 4.0 x 45mm (38mm Batten)
3. Correct Quantity of Fixings
Another important aspect is the number of fixings used. When using the recommended timber batten spacing of 600mm, every full length of fibre cement cladding (3.6-meter length), should have seven (7) fixings evenly spaced along the board. This ensures that the cladding is securely fastened to the structure, reducing the risk of loose rattling, warping boards over time.
Incorrect or insufficient fastening could lead to boards coming loose or creating gaps that allow water to penetrate behind the cladding, causing damage to the building’s structure.
4. Continuous Airflow
An often overlooked but critical detail in fibre cement cladding installation is maintaining a continuous airflow around the cladding. There should be a 8-10mm air gap at the top and bottom of all cladding including above and below openings. This gap allows airflow behind the cladding, facilitating proper ventilation and moisture management.
A lack of an air gap can trap moisture behind the cladding, leading to structural problems like rotting or mould growth. Correct airflow helps the system dry out faster and keeps moisture from lingering on the building’s exterior.
5. No Silicone
One of the biggest mistakes during fibre cement cladding installation is the use of silicone. While silicone is a common sealant, it should never be used with fibre cement cladding. The cladding is part of a non-combustible system, and adding a fuel (silicone) can actually compromise this.
Silicone is flammable and can act as a fuel source if a fire occurs. Gaps in cladding don't need to be sealed, airflow is good for cladding. By avoiding silicone, you maintain the fire-resistant properties of the cladding and enhance the safety of your home.
Conclusion: Is Your Fibre Cement Cladding Installed Correctly?
Ensuring that your fibre cement cladding is installed correctly involves careful attention to detail, from using the right fixings to maintaining proper ventilation. To summarise, check for these key installation steps:
A flyscreen or vent profile is installed at the top and bottom of the cladding and around all openings for ventilation.
The correct fixings, preferably screws, are used for the strongest hold and long-lasting performance.
The cladding is fastened with sufficient fixings to maintain a strong hold.
An 8-10mm air gap is left at the top and bottom of all cladding including above and below openings for airflow and moisture control.
No silicone is used, maintaining the non-combustible nature of the fibre cement system.
By making sure your cladding install has all of the above, you can rest assured that your fibre cement cladding will perform well for decades, providing protection and peace of mind for your home.
If you're unsure whether your cladding has been installed correctly, consider consulting a professional for an inspection or send us a message with any questions.