James Hardie Secura Interior and Exterior sheeting are high-quality, durable products designed for use in flooring and external decking. Engineered from fibre cement, these sheets offer superior resistance to moisture, making them an ideal choice for areas exposed to the elements or high humidity. This comprehensive installation guide covers all steps in detail, conforming to James Hardie’s guidelines.
Note: Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines and adhere to local building codes. Consider hiring a certified professional for installation.
You can find a copy of the technical specifications brochure on the following link.
Secura Interior Secura Exterior
James Hardie have released an informative video guide on the installation of Secura Interior flooring, which can be viewed on the following video.
James Mason, from Our Build, has released an equally great video on Exterior flooring which we will have viewable below.
Required Tools and Materials
- James Hardie Secura Interior or Exterior Sheeting
- Corrosion-resistant screws
- Measuring tape
- Chalk line
- Spirit level
- Circular saw with a diamond blade
- Power drill with suitable drill bits
- Caulking gun
- High-quality polyurethane adhesive
- Weather barrier (for exterior applications)
- Safety gear: gloves, safety glasses, and dust mask
You can find our range of Secura Interior flooring here, and Secura Exterior flooring here.
Pre-Installation Steps
Step 1: Substrate Preparation
- Ensure the joists and substrate are level, dry, and free of debris.
Step 2: Layout Planning
- Plan your sheet layout to minimize joints and optimize structural integrity.
Step 3: Weather Barrier Installation (Exterior Applications)
- Install a weather barrier as per James Hardie’s specifications if you're installing exterior sheets.
Installation Procedure
Step 1: Dry-Fitting
- Place the sheets on the joists without fastening them to get an idea of the layout.
Step 2: Cutting and Measuring
- Cut the sheets to fit using a circular saw with a diamond blade.
Step 3: Adhesive Application
- Apply a bead of polyurethane adhesive along the top of the joists where the sheet will be placed.
Step 4: Sheet Placement
- Carefully position the first sheet onto the joists, making sure it aligns with your chalk line.
Step 5: Fastening
- Secure the sheet to the joists using corrosion-resistant screws. Follow the screw-spacing guidelines as per the manufacturer’s specifications.
Step 6: Joining Sheets (Interior Applications)
- For internal applications, sheets can be butted tightly together without the need for a gap.
Step 7: Joining Sheets (Exterior Applications)
- For external applications, leave a gap between sheets for expansion, as specified in the installation manual.
Step 8: Successive Sheets
- Continue installing additional sheets, ensuring that joints between sheets are staggered for enhanced structural integrity.
Step 9: Final Fastening and Sealing
- After all sheets are installed, go around the perimeter and add any final screws or adhesive as needed.
- For exterior applications, apply sealant to any exposed edges for added moisture protection.
Step 10: Inspection and Cleaning
- Inspect the installation for any potential issues and correct as needed.
- Clean any adhesive spillage or dust off the surface.
Tips and Tricks
- Precision Cutting: Use a guide rail with your circular saw for precise cuts.
- Gap Management: Always refer to the manufacturer’s manual for precise gap specifications, especially for exterior applications.
- Proper Fastening: Overdriving screws can compromise the sheet’s integrity, so apply just enough force for a snug fit.
- Adhesive Application: Apply adhesive evenly without gaps to ensure a strong bond.
By following this thorough guide and referring back to James Hardie’s official installation manual, you can install Secura Interior and Exterior sheeting with confidence. These durable, moisture-resistant sheets offer both functional and aesthetic advantages, making them an excellent addition to any construction project.