All-Tex Expert Series - James Hardie Siding

Siding FAQ, Selection and Installation Tips
Hardie Siding should be installed a minimum of 6" above the grade.
Hardie Siding should be installed no closer than 2" from a concrete patio or sidewalk.
Never nail too close to the edge. Use these measurements as guide. These are good rules of thumb however follow below on HardiPlank.
Blind nailing allows covering your nails with the next row of HardiPlank Siding. This is prefered in most cases. Always nail a minimum of 1 1/4 inch from the edge. Nails should be flush, not counter sunk.
The use of a professional set of synchronized gauges helps insure evenly spaced planks and a straight installation. Always check every other row to ensure you are in synch and still level.
Leave 1/8 inch gaps when butt jointing your lap siding. This allows for necessary expansion and contraction. The joint will be caulked later.
Leave a 1/8 inch gap at the corner trim as well to allow for expansion and contraction.
All butt joint end joints should be caulked with high quality paintable caulk.
A 2 inch gap at the the roof line of gables and other roof transitions should be maintained. All these areas should be properly re-flashed if there is any doubt in the integrity of the flashing.