Replacing Timber Cladding with Hardie® Plank VL Cladding on a detached Garage & Extension in Portishead, Bristol
The Existing Condition and Client Brief
The property, located in Portishead, Bristol, featured traditional varnished timber weatherboarding installed to both the main house and detached garage. While the timber had been regularly maintained, it required ongoing cycles of sanding, staining, and sealing to remain weatherproof, particularly given exposure to coastal conditions.
Our customer’s primary objective was to eliminate the need for continued maintenance while retaining the appearance and texture of timber cladding. In addition, they wanted to update the external finish to achieve a lighter, more contemporary look that would sit cohesively with the existing stone brickwork.
Solution - Hardie® Plank VL Cladding
Following the site survey and product review, Hardie® Plank VL fibre cement cladding was specified to replace the existing timber weatherboarding.
The material was selected to meet our customer’s requirement for a low-maintenance alternative to timber, while retaining a comparable textured appearance. As a fibre cement product, it provides long-term dimensional stability and resistance to weathering, eliminating the need for ongoing sanding, staining, or sealing.
The VL interlocking profile was chosen to achieve a clean, contemporary finish with consistent horizontal lines. Combined with the selected colour, Light Mist, the system delivered the updated aesthetic outlined in the original brief.
The Fascia Division are certified Hardie® Plank Preferred Installers. All cladding systems are installed in accordance with James Hardie™ manufacturer specifications, including correct fixing methods, ventilation detailing, and system build-up requirements.
Project Quick Facts & Specifications
Timber cladding on a garage and extension in Portishead, Bristol replaced with Hardie Plank VL cladding, creating a clean, modern, low-maintenance exterior.
- Location: Portishead, Bristol
- Service Type: Cladding replacement
- Core Materials: Light Mist Hardie Plank VL Cladding
- Substrate Preparation: Remove timber cladding and old battens
- Additional Materials: Treated battens, breather membrane
- Key Benefits: Clean, modern, low-maintenance transformation
- Project Size: 79m² Hardie® Plank VL Cladding
- Project Duration: 10 Days
- Hardie® Plank Product Warranty: 15 Years
- Workmanship Guarantee: 10 Years
The Colour and Material Consultation
The process for this project in Portishead began with an initial site visit carried out by our surveyor. During this appointment, full measurements were taken of both the main house and detached garage, and the existing varnished timber weatherboarding was assessed to determine suitability for replacement with a fibre cement system.
The surveyor also provided on-site guidance regarding appropriate cladding options for a coastal property exposed to elevated weathering conditions. Hardie® Plank sample kits were brought to site, allowing the customer to view different finishes directly against the existing stone brickwork and timber elements under natural light.
This ensured the selected finish worked across both buildings in context, particularly in relation to tone and contrast against the masonry. Following this review, the customer made their selection based on the most suitable visual match and performance requirements.
Installing Hardie® Plank VL Cladding
The existing timber cladding was removed from both the main house and detached garage, along with any existing battens.
The exposed substrate was inspected and prepared to confirm suitability for a ventilated cladding system.
A breathable membrane was then fixed directly to the external walls to provide a weather-resistant barrier while allowing vapour permeability.
Treated timber battens were installed over the membrane to create a ventilated cavity. Battens were fixed in line with manufacturer requirements to ensure correct spacing and airflow behind the cladding.
Hardie® Plank VL fibre cement cladding was then installed onto the battens using the interlocking VL system. This created a mechanically fixed rainscreen façade with concealed fixings and consistent horizontal alignment across all elevations.
The Final Result
The installation replaced the existing dark timber cladding with a lighter fibre cement system across both the main house and detached garage, creating a consistent external finish.
The updated façade provides a more contemporary appearance while reducing ongoing maintenance requirements, removing the need for regular sanding, staining, or sealing associated with timber.
The completed system delivers a durable, weather-resistant external envelope with improved long-term performance and visual consistency across the property.
Hardie® Plank VL Cladding – Key Questions
What is Hardie® Plank cladding made from?
Hardie® Plank is a fibre cement cladding product manufactured from a mix of cement, sand, cellulose fibres, and additives. This provides a stable and durable alternative to traditional timber cladding.
Is Hardie® Plank cladding low maintenance?
Yes. Unlike timber, it does not require regular sanding, staining, or sealing. Periodic cleaning is typically sufficient to maintain its appearance.
Is Hardie® Plank fire-resistant?
Yes. Fibre cement cladding is classified as non-combustible and achieves a Class A2-s1, d0 fire rating.
Does Hardie® Plank warp or rot?
No. Fibre cement does not warp, shrink, or rot in the same way as timber, making it suitable for long-term external use.
What finishes and colours are available?
Hardie® Plank VL cladding is available in eight colours. The cedar-texture finish provides a natural timber appearance while delivering the durability and low-maintenance benefits of fibre cement cladding.
See more Hardie Plank Cladding installations