February 28Feb 28 My builder sold me on the idea of Hardie VL Plank as a means to cover my extension, so I went for it as it does seem to give a clean modern look used on many new builds these days. I didnt know they hadnt used the system before, otherwise I probably would have thought twice about my decision, with my house being the training run. I am having the cladding running vertically, my choice. I have an over hang and it was supposed to follow this, however the overhang cladding was wood and it ended up running parallel to the house, but thats another story. Where some of the lengths of plank have been cut, they make a butt joint. My query is , is this an acceptable method for continuing a run. All the brochures of course show seamless runs of continuous planks. I did find a guide on using butt joints and it advised using some flashing underneath. Just curious to your opinion. Also the guides all talk about sealing the cut ends. I have noticed quite a few ends that are not sealed. What is the downside of this if not sealed/painted. Also this section by the door has been ripped out of a plank and then joined with a butt joint. The upper section is not supported by the rail that supports those sections to the left and it meets a not straight rip cut with a butt joint. I dont think its right, but again welcome your opinion and feedback. Also the section on the left under the trim you can see unsealed ends, this continues along this trim, you can see the bare cement through the holes in the trim. Can a section be replaced easily, or does the whole side need to come off to get to the problem board? Edited February 28Feb 28 by andeebee
February 28Feb 28 It is best to seal all the cuts with their touch up paint but I think it is more for aesthetics than durability. With a butt join it would be best to have factory finished ends and join on a support.
March 5Mar 5 Author On 01/03/2026 at 15:00, Nickfromwales said: That cut was sheer laziness! I agree and unfortunately this happens at the edge of every window and door Im hoping I can piece in a full height plank later
March 5Mar 5 5 minutes ago, andeebee said: I agree and unfortunately this happens at the edge of every window and door Im hoping I can piece in a full height plank later Post back here when you go to do this and we can advise on methodology; you don't want to open a can of worms by disturbing the boards either side etc
March 6Mar 6 I hope they vented top and bottom? What a shame to have somebody, doing something for the first time, using your hard earned cash.
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