Tools To Replace Worn Hardie Board Like A Pro
Updated: Jul 17, 2022
Replacing Worn Hardie Board
Well this painting project required us to replace worn Hardie Board on a bay window. On a difficulty level I would give it a 6 out of 10. Keep everything level, take your time and you will succeed. This list will give you the tools to replace your Hardie Board quickly and professionally. As always these are my opinions and experiences.
1. Circular Saw
The Circular Saw is used to cut the Hardie board to length. I recommend the 7 1/4 Inch corded Circular Saw. If you have a Miter Saw it will be ok for cross cuts. But what I have run into with replacing Hardie Board some pieces will have to be cut long ways with a table saw or Circular Saw.
2. PCD Fiber Cement Circular Saw Blade
This is a very important tool when it comes to cutting your Hardie Board. The PCD stands for Polycrystalline Diamond. The PCD Fiber Cement Circular Saw Blade is a diamond tip blade and will last a Long time.
3. Flat Pry Bar Nail Puller
The Flat Pry Bar Nail Puller is needed to remove nails and Hardie Board from the wall it is installed to. Spend a little extra on a Nail Puller and it will last a lifetime.
4. Level
The Level will be used to level up your Hardie Board replacement pieces. I recommend the 2 foot Level but just like in my other blog posts I suggest the 3 piece Level kit for beginner DIYers. The kit comes with a short 10 inch torpedo, 2 foot and 4 foot level.
5. Speed Square
The Speed Square will be used to Mark your cuts and square up your boards. I recommend the Swanson brand, they have been around for a long time. My Swanson Speed Square has lasted 20 years so far.
6. Claw Hammer
As I have said before when shopping for a Hammer start with a 16 ounce and go from there. My wife uses a 16 ounce daily and I tend to use it for smaller DIY projects around the house.
Purchase what feels good in your hand and what is heavy enough to drive nails efficiently.
7. Tape Measure
Use the Tape measure to measure your Hardie Board to cut. I have suggested numerous tape measures on my blog. I use a 25 foot Lufkin but I also have a Craftsman 25 foot a Stanley 25 foot Tape Measure. Just like the Hammer try them all and purchase what feels best in your hand. If you have smaller hands I recommend a 16 foot Tape Measure for comfort. I know comfort and Tape Measures sounds silly but purchase one that is to big to hold on to and you will see what I am talking about.
Bonus Tool
Chalk Line
The Chalk Line can be used to mark your Hardie Board for straight line long cuts. It can also be used to lay out your lines on the walls where you are installing Hardie Board. These are cheap and will help with other DIY projects also.
Summary
This project was completed and painted in less than two days. It was like I previously said a 6 out of 5 on the difficulty level. Some head scratching and conversations with myself. As always wear the proper PPE. Be safe in everything you do. Check out my other Blog posts while you are here www.top5toolstouse.com