In the fast-paced building and construction sector, efficiency and productivity often take centre stage. But in the rush to get projects delivered, one crucial step is sometimes overlooked: reading and correctly interpreting the manufacturer’s installation guides.
Take James Hardie’s Axon™ cladding as a prime example. It’s a high-quality product, engineered for performance, but like any system, it relies on correct installation to perform as intended. Skipping over the guide or relying solely on “what we’ve always done” can lead to costly issues — not just for builders, but also for homeowners and the reputation of the entire project team.
Why Installation Guides Matter
- Compliance with the NCC – Many installation manuals are written to align with the National Construction Code (NCC) and relevant Australian Standards. Following the guide ensures your work meets compliance and avoids liability.
- Warranty Protection – Manufacturers will not honour warranties where products are not installed according to their instructions. A simple oversight, such as incorrect fixings or spacing, could leave builders exposed to high costs.
- Product Longevity – Installation details, like correct sealing, ventilation, or fixing methods, are designed to protect against premature failure. Done right, the system performs for decades; done wrong, it fails early and often dramatically.
- Professional Accountability – Clients expect that licensed builders and contractors will follow best practices. Cutting corners or disregarding installation guidance undermines trust and professional standards.
Common Pitfalls We See
As technical advisors, we frequently encounter issues that could have been avoided by following the manual:
- Using incompatible sealants or adhesives.
- Incorrect joint spacing or fixings.
- Neglecting clearance requirements, leading to moisture ingress.
- Overlooking the need for vapour barriers or cavity battens.
Each of these mistakes has the potential to cause defects, disputes, and rework — often at significant cost.
Practical Tips
- Keep the latest manuals on hand – Most manufacturers, including James Hardie, provide up-to-date PDFs on their websites.
- Build it into toolbox talks – A quick review before starting a new task can prevent hours of rework later.
- Don’t assume past jobs set the standard – Product specifications evolve, and so do compliance requirements.
- Encourage a culture of checking – When supervisors and leading hands model good practice, the whole team follows suit.
Installation guides are not just a “handy to have” — they are a technical standard, compliance tool, and warranty protector all in one. In an industry where margins are tight and reputations matter, reading and applying them correctly is one of the simplest and smartest investments you can make.
If you have any questions or need further guidance, please don’t hesitate to contact our Workplace Relations team:
📞 (02) 6175 5900
📧 workplace@mba.org.au
