What Kind of Paint for a HardiePlank?

Factory-Primed HardiePlank Painting

• For factory-primed HardiePlank, the manufacturer recommends the use of name-brand 100 percent acrylic latex exterior topcoats in flat, satin or semi-gloss finish. Factory-primed HardiePlank should be painted with topcoat within 180 days of installation. Application of topcoats should be done according to the paint manufacturer's instructions. Most manufacturers recommend applying two coats of topcoat.

Unprimed HardiePlank Painting

• For unprimed HardiePlank, the manufacturer recommends high-quality exterior grade primers that are specifically formulated for cement-based building materials such as fiber-cement, stucco, masonry or brick. Unprimed HardiePlank should be primed and painted within 90 days of installation. Topcoats should be name-brand 100 percent acrylic latex exterior in flat, satin or semi-gloss finish. Application of primer and topcoats to unprimed HardiePlank should be done according to the paint manufacturer's instructions. Most manufacturers recommend applying two coats of topcoat.

Oil-Base And Stains

• Oil-based paints are not recommended for unprimed HardiePlank. The oil content may cause surface roughness, loss of adhesion and cracking. Wood stains containing linseed oil should not be used on primed or unprimed HardiePlank surfaces.

Clear Coats And Sealers

• Clear coats or sealers applied on top of painted HardiePlank are not considered reliable by the manufacturer. Peeling, cracking or crystallization of clear coats or sealers applied on site is not covered by the HardiePlank warranty.