Installation Instructions
Allura Fiber Cement Siding Installaon Manual
72
It is never acceptable to leave a gap of any size at a butt end/ joint. Butt end/joints
should be installed with factory-sealed or factory-prefinished ends butted together
in moderate contact. Allura recommends (but does not require) the use of a butt end/
joint flashing made of a durable, non-corrosive material that is compatible with Allura
Fiber Cement Siding (e.g. #15 felt, trim coil, Bear Skin joint flashing). Check if local code
requires backflashing at the butt joint.
Do not caulk. Applying caulk to the butt joint is ineffective because the gap is not large
enough to accommodate the sealant. Also, on prefinished products, caulk may leave an
unsightly looking finish. Spreading or feathering the sealant into a thin film will create
a noticeably different appearance, and it can remove the needed thickness required to
withstand UV exposure and joint movement.
If the architect, designer, installer, project manager, contractor, property owner, code
official or other entity involved with determining the method of installation on a project
determines that spacing the butt joints and applying caulk is an acceptable practice
during installation, such practice will not affect the eligibility of the Allura Fiber Cement
Siding product installed on the project for warranty coverage with regards to product
defect, provided that the caulking of the butt joints does not inflict, cause, or otherwise
create a condition where this practice was, is, or becomes the cause of product failure.
NOTE: Do not use caulk to seal nail holes.
Painting
All Allura Fiber Cement Siding, Soffit, and Trim is sealed with Allura’s Primer/Sealer.
When the edges of field-cut Allura Fiber Cement Siding meet up with trim boards, the
edges must be coated with a high-quality 100% acrylic latex paint or primer, or caulked.
In all other locations, field-cut edges should be coated with a high-quality 100% acrylic
latex paint or primer, but NOT caulked.
Allura Fiber Cement Siding, Soffit and Trim must be allowed to breathe. Do not prime,
paint, or stain the back side. Some “spill-over” from primer, paint, or stain on the back
is normal.
You mu st app ly a f ini sh c oa t w ith in 6 m ont hs of in st al lat io n. O n al l Fib er Ce me nt
products with Primer/Sealer 4/4 and 5/4 fiber cement trim, apply a finish coat within 6
months of installation. Use a high-quality, 100% acrylic latex paint. Before applying the
finish coat, always follow the paint manufacturer’s recommendations for surface
preparation and paint application.
NOTE: Never apply oil-based paints or stains to Allura Fiber Cement Siding,
soffit, or trim.