Living in Calgary is great; however, we are all aware of the dramatic wildly changing weather here. Changes that can cause vast issues. When it comes to our renovation goals. Oftentimes we have clients who wish to postpone due to concern over the winter months. However, these are unfounded when it comes to Hardie Siding in Calgary.
Is James Hardie Calgary weather safe?
The James Hardie line of products is designed to be exceptional in all weather. They have created two separate product lines designed to cater to specific temperature regions. The HZ5 is designed for winter weather, freezing temperatures, snow, and ice, as well as seasonal temperature variations. This means that it is ideal for our dramatic mood-swinging weather variations here in Calgary. The Hardie line of products can be installed in all weather, well below freezing, up to -30 degrees Celsius.
Installing Hardie Siding in Calgary
When installed correctly the product is intensely durable, beautiful, and low maintenance. There are some things to watch out for when installing the product, due to Hardie board being made from fiber cement, the expansion rate is not as drastic as vinyl products or metal, this means that your contractor does not have to leave as much space in between panels for the material to expand in the summer. Hardie must have 6-inch clearance from the ground, and 2-inch clearance where it meets the roof, deck, path, steps, driveways, or other solid surfaces regardless of the weather conditions, this means that you will need flashing to be installed underneath. Flashing can also be installed in the winter; however, it can be tricky. At Tymbridge we custom create all our flashing year-round and therefore can ensure a perfect fit every time.
Another consideration to be made with James Hardie products is the correct handling of the materials prior to installation. Hardie Board is incredibly resilient however it must be kept off the ground, it is advised that it be kept away from moisture, and the elements before installation to avoid any warping or staining. Hardie Siding in Calgary must be placed on a pallet, above the snow and ground, and always covered.
Accidents do happen! No contractor is perfect and there will be some troubleshooting during your installation. If for instance, the material does get wet, fear not! If the material is laid out to completely dry on a flat surface it will not warp! Suppose your product dents or scraps during installation, James Hardie Calgary offers a variety of color-matched touch-up products that your contractor can use to correct even the slightest imperfections.
What about Safety for James Hardie product installs?
There are a few non-negotiables when it comes to Hardie Siding in Calgary, primarily the respect and adherence of OSHA regulations during work. James Hardie products are Silica based, what this means is that when the product is cut to size it emits silica dust, which is hazardous to the lung health of anyone who aspirates it. This is a significant and important consideration, it means that the product must be handled in a well-ventilated area, with proper safety equipment and tools.
At Tymbridge, we adhere to all safety regulations and go above that to keep ourselves and you safe. You may see our workers wearing protective gear, including masks, goggles, and potentially full-body protective suits, do not be alarmed! You are unlikely to harm by the dust unless you inhale it continuously as our workers would be at risk of it. However, it is advised that you give the team plenty of space and avoid being around during the cutting of the product.
OSHA regulations also require proper and well-maintained equipment to be used, the materials to be handled with two workers depending on weight, as well as your contractor having First aid training, and always have a working first aid kit on site. At Tymbridge our crews have at least one certified First aid carrier, as well as a working kit.
Maintenance
One of the best features of Hardie Board is its low maintenance requirements. Hardie can essentially be left alone unless it is damaged. However, it can get dirty as all siding can, in that case, you may wish to wash it. Hardie siding will tolerate soap, medium pressure water, and being scrubbed. However, Hardie board is NOT designed to handle high-pressure water, or sanding, this can lead to damages to your finishing.
Hardie products may need finishing updates or touch-ups down the road, it can be painted however it is advised you use James Hardie Calgary products to do so. James Hardie provides a variety of different colors that can be used to change up the look of your siding at your discretion.
Hardie products are designed to be lifetime products, and so will not need to be changed unless physically damaged. They are rated for up to 60 years, and the HZ5 line is very specifically designed for Calgary-like weather changes. While the product is not hail-proof, it does hold up against most hailstorms and is considered hail resistant.
So…Can I get a Winter installation for Hardie Siding in Calgary?
Absolutely you can install Hardie siding in the winter with few adaptions needed. James Hardie HZ5 is designed to hold up to our intense dramatic weather. We can handle changes up to -30-degree weather. As long as safety measures are kept in place, and the material is handled properly. Both prior to and during installation, you will have a lifetime product.
