Fibre Cement Installation

General Framing

Sheets can be fixed to either timber or light gauge steel framing. They can be used with proprietary suspended metal framing systems normally used in commercial applications.  Frames should be straight and true for a flush face before fixing on the sheeting.  For the best outcome, maximum tolerances should be between 3mm and 4mm for any 3000mm length frame.  Lining sheets will not straighten excessively warped or distorted frames and this warping may still be visible after the decorative coating is applied.

Timber Framing

Only use seasoned timber, as unseasoned timber is prone to shrinkage. The minimum frame thickness must be 38mm.  If the JH PVC Eave and Soffit Joiner 6mm accessory are used, the ceiling joint supporting and parallel to the accessory must be a minimum 45mm thick.  Do not fix sheets to the bottom chord of roof trusses.  Instead, fix to battens or furring channels.

Steel Framing

The base metal thickness of a steel frame must be between 0.55mm and 1.6mm.  Sheets must not be fixed directly to drawn steel or hot-rolled steel sections. These members should be battened out with 38mm minimum finished width timber battens or lightgauge metal furring channels of a similar minimum width. If the JH PVC Eave and Soffit Joiner 6mm accessory is used the ceiling joint supporting and parallel to the accessory must be a minimum 45mm thick.

General Fixing

Select the fastener suitable for the required framing depending on the type of framing (timber or metal).

Note:  Fasteners must not be overdriven as this can reduce the holding capacity of the sheet. If nailing depth cannot be controlled adequately when gun nailing, under-drive fasteners then tap flush with a hammer. Adhesives must not be used to attach sheets to the frame.

Class 3 external grade finish must be used for all external applications.

Self-embedding head screws must not be used in 4.5mm thick sheets. Locate fasteners not less than 12mm from sheet edges and 50mm from sheet corners.

Coastal Area Fixings

Fasteners must have the appropriate level of durability required for the intended project. This is of particular importance in coastal areas, areas subject to salt spray and other corrosive environments.  Fasteners must be fully compatible with all other material that they are in contact with to ensure the durability and integrity of the assembly.  Contact fastener manufacturers for more information.

Fastening to Timber

Hand nailing for fixing 4.5mm thick lining and 6mm thick lining, use 2.8 x 30mm fibre cement nails.  For fixing 9mm thick lining use 2.8 x 40mm fibre cement nails.