
Painting Hardiplank siding requires careful preparation and the right choice of paint to ensure a long-lasting finish. While sanding is not recommended, as it may damage the siding, it is crucial to clean the surface thoroughly before painting. This can be done with a soft nylon brush and soapy water, or a power wash for tougher stains. Once the siding is clean and dry, a primer should be applied, with acrylic latex paint being the recommended choice due to its superior adhesion properties. Finally, two coats of high-quality 100% acrylic exterior paint should be applied using smooth, even strokes, following the grain pattern from top to bottom.
Do I have to sand Hardiplank siding for painting?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Sanding | Not recommended as the material is relatively soft. Extreme sanding may damage the siding. |
| Priming | Necessary. Use a high-quality latex primer, or a 100% acrylic primer. Avoid oil-based primers. |
| Caulking | Essential. Use a quality 50-year paintable product. |
| Painting | Use 100% acrylic exterior paint. Avoid oil-based paints. |
| Painting technique | Avoid direct sunlight. Use a paint additive to slow down drying time. |
| Painting timeframe | Paint within 90 days or 3-6 months of installation to prevent deterioration. |
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What You'll Learn
- Sanding is not recommended as the material is soft, but if you do sand, be careful not to expose the fibre cement
- Wash the siding with soap and water, or power wash to remove dirt, dust, or mildew
- Prime the surface with a high-quality latex primer, avoiding oil-based primers
- Choose 100% acrylic exterior paint for maximum durability and an aesthetically pleasing appearance
- Apply two coats of paint, using smooth strokes and following the grain patterns, allowing time to dry between coats

Sanding is not recommended as the material is soft, but if you do sand, be careful not to expose the fibre cement
If you're looking to paint Hardiplank siding, there are a few important steps to follow to ensure a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing finish. Firstly, it is recommended to paint Hardiplank siding within six months of installation to prevent deterioration. If the siding is unprimed, this timeframe is shortened to three months. Before applying any paint, it is crucial to prime your Hardiplank siding to enhance adhesion and improve the longevity of your paint job. A suitable primer for this is a high-quality latex primer or a masonry primer specifically formulated for cement-based materials.
When it comes to choosing the right paint, opt for 100% acrylic exterior paint, which is specifically designed for fibre cement. This type of paint will ensure maximum durability and provide an aesthetically pleasing finish. It is also flexible, allowing it to expand and contract with temperature changes, reducing the likelihood of cracking or peeling.
Now, to address your question about sanding, it is generally not recommended to sand Hardiplank siding as the material is relatively soft, and you risk exposing the fibre cement underneath. However, if you do choose to sand, exercise extreme caution to avoid damaging the siding and stop immediately if you reach the fibre cement layer.
Other important steps to consider when painting Hardiplank siding include thoroughly cleaning the surface with a power wash or a soft nylon brush and soap to remove any dirt, dust, or mildew. Additionally, caulking and sealing all cracks, seams, joints, and gaps with a quality acrylic or siliconised acrylic caulk will enhance the finished appearance of your paint job. Also, remember to avoid painting in direct sunlight and consider using a paint additive to slow down drying time.
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Wash the siding with soap and water, or power wash to remove dirt, dust, or mildew
When preparing Hardiplank siding for painting, it is essential to start with a clean surface. This means washing the siding with soap and water or power washing to remove any dirt, dust, or mildew.
Hand washing is the safest and most recommended way to clean Hardie siding. While a pressure washer may seem like a quick solution, it can damage the siding if used improperly. Therefore, it is better to use a low-pressure garden hose with a mild cleaning solution.
To prepare the cleaning solution, mix warm water with a mild liquid dishwashing soap in a bucket. For tougher stains, you can add a small amount of household ammonia or use a bleach-based cleaner. Oxygen bleach is safe for both siding and landscaping. If you are dealing with mould or mildew, a DIY solution of one part white vinegar to three parts water is effective. You can also use a store-bought mildew cleaner that is safe for fibre cement siding.
Once you have prepared the cleaning solution, start by rinsing the siding with the garden hose from the top down to prevent streaking and ensure that any existing dirt and grime are washed away. Then, dip a soft cloth or a long-handled, soft-bristle brush into the cleaning solution and gently scrub the siding, again working from the top down. Finally, rinse the siding thoroughly with the garden hose to remove all soap residue, as this can attract more dirt if left behind.
By thoroughly washing your Hardiplank siding before painting, you can increase the durability of the paint job and prevent premature peeling and chipping.
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Prime the surface with a high-quality latex primer, avoiding oil-based primers
When preparing Hardiplank siding for exterior painting, it is crucial to use the right primer and paint to ensure a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing finish. While sanding is not explicitly mentioned as a requirement, preparing the surface by cleaning it with a power wash or a garden hose to remove dirt, dust, or mildew is recommended.
A high-quality latex primer is an excellent choice for priming Hardiplank siding before painting. Latex primers are water-based and are ideal for preparing unfinished drywall, concrete, or cement-based materials. They are known for their superior adhesion properties, which will result in a durable and robust coating on your Hardiplank siding. Additionally, latex primers offer flexibility, allowing them to expand and contract with temperature changes, reducing the likelihood of cracking or peeling. By using a latex primer, you can also avoid the drawbacks associated with oil-based primers.
Oil-based primers should be avoided when priming Hardiplank siding or any material with a cement base. The oil in the primer can react with the alkali in the cement, leading to saponification, where the paint turns into soap. This reaction can cause premature peeling and chipping of the paint. Oil-based primers also have longer drying times, which can extend the duration of your painting project, and they release higher levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) compared to latex primers, which can be harmful to people when exposed to high concentrations or for prolonged periods.
When priming Hardiplank siding, it is recommended to use a 100% acrylic exterior paint, specifically designed for fiber cement. Acrylic latex paint provides the best results in terms of both look and quality. It forms a strong bond with the siding's surface, resulting in a long-lasting finish. Additionally, caulking and priming all rough and cut ends are essential steps to ensure a uniform texture for the paint to adhere effectively.
By following these guidelines and using a high-quality latex primer with acrylic latex paint, you can achieve a beautiful and durable finish on your Hardiplank siding that will enhance the appearance of your home and protect it from wear and tear.
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Choose 100% acrylic exterior paint for maximum durability and an aesthetically pleasing appearance
When preparing to paint Hardiplank siding, it is important to choose the right type of paint to ensure maximum durability and an aesthetically pleasing finish. While there are various paints available on the market, 100% acrylic exterior paint stands out as the ideal choice for Hardiplank siding.
Acrylic latex paint, a type of 100% acrylic exterior paint, is specifically designed for exterior surfaces such as fiber cement, stone, and stucco. It offers superior adhesion to the siding's surface, resulting in a robust and long-lasting coating. This strong bond prevents the paint from chipping, cracking, or peeling, ensuring that your siding remains protected and intact. The flexibility of acrylic latex paint is another advantage, as it allows the paint to expand and contract with temperature changes, further reducing the likelihood of cracking or peeling.
By choosing 100% acrylic exterior paint, you also gain resistance to various elements. This type of paint provides defence against UV rays, preventing the colour from fading and maintaining a vibrant exterior. Additionally, it protects against chipping, cracking, and mildew, reducing the need for frequent touch-ups and maintenance.
When selecting a brand of 100% acrylic exterior paint, consider options such as Benjamin Moore Aura, Sherwin Williams Emerald, or Sherwin Williams Duration. These brands are known for their high-quality formulas that deliver long-lasting results. For instance, Sherwin Williams Emerald and Sherwin Williams Duration are specifically designed for durability and an extended finish on fibre cement siding.
Before applying the paint, it is essential to properly prepare the surface of the Hardiplank siding. This includes caulking and sealing any cracks or gaps, as well as priming the surface with a high-quality latex primer. A suitable primer for cement-based materials is the Sherwin-Williams Loxon Masonry Primer. By taking the time to prepare the surface and using the right materials, you will achieve a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing finish on your Hardiplank siding.
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Apply two coats of paint, using smooth strokes and following the grain patterns, allowing time to dry between coats
When it comes to painting Hardiplank siding, there are several steps you can take to ensure a smooth and long-lasting finish. Firstly, it is essential to clean the surface by power washing or using a garden hose to remove any dirt, dust, or mildew. For tough mildew stains, a solution of bleach and water can be applied, left for 20 minutes, and then rinsed off. If there is any old or peeling paint, it should be carefully scraped off to ensure a smooth surface.
Once the surface is clean and dry, it is time to prime. Priming is an important step as it enhances the adhesion and longevity of the paint job. It is recommended to use a high-quality latex primer or a primer specifically formulated for cement-based materials, such as the Sherwin-Williams Loxon Masonry Primer. Caulking and priming all rough and cut ends are crucial steps to ensure a consistent sheen on the finish.
After priming, you can move on to the painting process. Using a high-quality roller or brush, apply the paint in smooth strokes, following the grain patterns, and work from top to bottom. It is important to take your time and not rush this process. Allow the first coat of paint to dry completely before applying the second coat.
For Hardiplank siding, it is recommended to use 100% acrylic exterior paint or acrylic latex paint. These types of paint are specifically designed for exterior surfaces and offer benefits such as superior adhesion, flexibility, and resistance to UV rays. By following these steps and applying two coats of paint, you can achieve a beautiful and durable finish that will enhance the appearance of your home and protect the siding from wear and tear.
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Frequently asked questions
Sanding Hardiplank siding is not recommended as the material is relatively soft and you could damage the siding. However, some sources suggest that it is important to sand, wash and re-prime the surface before painting.
Before painting, the siding should be thoroughly cleaned with a power wash or a garden hose to remove any dirt, dust, or mildew. For tough mildew stains, use a solution of bleach and water, wipe the mildew areas and rinse off after 20 minutes.
It is recommended to use 100% acrylic exterior paint for Hardiplank siding. Acrylic latex paint is specifically designed for fiber cement and will provide the best results in terms of look and quality.
Priming Hardiplank siding before painting is essential to enhancing the adhesion and longevity of your paint job. It is recommended to use a high-quality latex primer and to avoid using oil-based primers as these are not suitable for unprimed fiber cement.










































