Installation Guide and

Technical Specification
RAB™ Board*

COMMERCIAL

*Not available in WA.

Australia February 2024

Make sure your information is up to date.
When specifying or installing Hardie™ products, ensure
that you have the current technical information and guides.
If in doubt, or you need more information,
visit www.jameshardie.com.au or Ask James Hardie™ on 13 11 03.
CONTENTS
1 INTRODUCTION 2 1 Introduction
2 SAFE WORKING PRACTICES 3
Working Instructions 3
Storage and Handling 3 RAB™ Board is a 6mm fibre cement sheet, with factory applied CoreShield™ sealer
technology. It is installed beneath claddings or rainscreens as a weather barrier, and
delivers superior water resistance, long-term durability and strength. It is suitable
3 DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS 4 all classes and types of buildings including residential, apartments, commercial and
Framing and Structure 4 public.
Water Management 4
Structural Design 4 The RAB™ Board supplied by James Hardie is warranted for a period of 10 years.
Fire Safety 5 Please refer to the terms and conditions stated in the warranty document available
Energy Efficiency 5 at JamesHardie.com.au.
Ground Clearance 5
Temporary Weather Protection 5 If you are a specifier...
Facade System 6 Or other responsible party for a project, ensure the information in these specifications
Physical Properties 6 is appropriate for the application you are planning and that you undertake specific
design and detailing for areas which fall outside the scope of these specifications.

4 PRODUCT AND ACCESSORY If you are an installer...

DETAILS 7 Ensure that you follow the design, moisture management and associated details and
Overview 7 material selection provided by the designer and the RAB™ Board Installation Guide.
Components 7
Accessories 7 SCOPE
General
This guide covers the use of RAB™ Board in multi-residential and commercial wall
5 INSTALLATION 8
application over a seasoned timber or light-gauge steel frame.
Windows and Openings 9
The guide is intended to address the requirements of Class 2 - 9 buildings in
6 DETAILS 10 accordance with National Construction Code (NCC) Volume One.
Fastener and Fixing 10
Horizontal Slab junction 10
Joints 11
Corners 12
Windows 12
Parapet 13
7 PRODUCT INFORMATION 14

IMPORTANT NOTES
1. Failure to install, finish or maintain this
product in accordance with applicable
building codes, regulations, standards
and James Hardie’s written application
instructions may lead to personal injury,
affect system performance, violate local
building codes, and void James Hardie’s
product warranty.
2. All warranties, conditions, liabilities
(direct, indirect or consequential) and
obligations whether arising in contract,
tort or otherwise other than those
specified in James Hardie’s product
warranty are excluded to the fullest
extent allowed by law. For James
Hardie’s product warranty information
and disclaimers about the information in
this guide, visit www.jameshardie.com.au.

MADE IN AUSTRALIA
2 Safe Working Practices

WARNING - DO NOT BREATHE DUST AND CUT 2.1 WORKING INSTRUCTIONS

ONLY IN WELL VENTILATED AREA Refer to recommended safe working practices before starting any cutting
Hardie™ products contain sand, a source of respirable crystalline silica. or machining of product.
May cause cancer if dust from product is inhaled. Causes damage
VillaboardTM Knife - Score and snap
to lungs and respiratory system through prolonged or repeated
Score and snap is a fast and efficient method of cutting Hardie™ building
inhalation of dust from product.
Intact fibre cement products are not expected to result in any adverse products using Hardie’s Villaboard™ Knife. Preferably score on the face
toxic effects. The hazard associated with fibre cement arises from the side of the product. Score against a straight edge and repeat the action
respirable crystalline silica present in dust generated by activities such as to obtain adequate depth for clean break – normally one third of sheet
cutting, rebating, drilling, routing, sawing, crushing, or otherwise abrading thickness. Snap upwards to achieve break. Smooth any rough edges with
fibre cement, and when cleaning up, disposing of or moving dust. a rasp.
When doing any of these activities in a manner that generates dust,
follow James Hardie instructions and best practices to reduce or limit the Scored edge Straight edge
release of dust, warn others in the area and consider rotating personnel
across the cutting task to further limit respirable silica exposure.
If using a dust mask or respirator, use an AS/NZS1716 P1 filter and
refer to Australian/New Zealand Standard 1715:2009 Selection, Use and
Maintenance of Respiratory Protective Equipment for more extensive
guidance and more options for selecting respirators for workplaces. For
further information, refer to our installation instructions and Safety Data
Sheets available at www.jameshardie.com.au. FAILURE TO ADHERE
TO OUR WARNINGS, SAFETY DATA SHEETS, AND INSTALLATION
INSTRUCTIONS MAY LEAD TO SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.

JAMES HARDIE RECOMMENDED SAFE WORKING PRACTICES

CUTTING OUTDOORS Hardie™ Blade Saw Blade
1. Position cutting station so wind will blow dust away from The Hardie™ Blade Saw Blade used with a dust-reducing saw is ideal
the user or others in working area. for fast, clean cutting of Hardie™ fibre cement products. When sawing,
2. Warn others in the area to avoid dust clamp a straight-edge to the sheet as a guide and run the saw base plate
3. Consider rotating personnel across cutting tasks to further
along the straight edge when making the cut.
limit respirable silica exposures.
4. Use one of the following methods based on the required
cutting rate:
Best n
VillaboardTM Knifen
Hand guillotinen
Fibreshear
Better Position the cutting station in a well-ventilated area. Use a dust
n

reducing circular saw equipped with Hardie™ Blade Saw Blade

or comparable fibre cement blade and well maintained M-class
vacuum or higher with appropriate filter for capturing fine
(respirable) dust. Wear a properly-fitted, approved dust mask or
respirator (minimum P1).
CUTTING INDOORS
Cut only using VillaboardTM Knife, hand guillotine or fibreshears
n

(manual, electric or pneumatic).

Position cutting station in a well-ventilated area.
n

2.2 STORAGE AND HANDLING

DRILLING / OTHER MACHINING
When drilling or machining you should always wear a P1 dust mask and To avoid damage, all Hardie™ building products should be stored with
warn others in the immediate area. edges and corners of the product protected from chipping. Hardie™
IMPORTANT NOTES building products must be installed in a dry state and protected from
1. For maximum protection (lowest respirable dust production) James weather during transport and storage. The product must be laid flat under
Hardie recommends always using best practice cutting methods cover on a smooth level surface clear of the ground to avoid exposure to
where feasible. water, moisture, etc.
2. NEVER use a power saw indoors or in a poorly ventilated area.
3. ALWAYS use a dust reducing circular saw equipped with a sawblade
specifically designed to minimise dust creation when cutting fibrecement -
preferably a sawblade that carries the Hardie™ Blade logo or one with at
least equivalent performance - connected to a M class or higher vacuum.
4. NEVER dry sweep - Use wet suppression, or an M class vacuum or
higher with appropriate filter.
5. NEVER use grinders.
6. ALWAYS follow tool manufacturers’ safety recommendations.
7. ALWAYS wear a properly fitted, approved dusk mask, P1 or higher.
DUST MASKS AND RESPIRATORS
As a minimum, an AS/NZS1716 P1 respirator must be used when doing
any activity that may create dust. For more extensive guidance and
options for selecting respirators for workplaces please refer to Australian/
New Zealand Standard 1715:2009 “Selection, Use and Maintenance
of Respiratory Protective Equipment”. P1 respirators should be used in
conjunction with the above cutting practices to minimise dust exposure.
For further information, refer to Safety Data Sheet (SDS) available at www.
jameshardie.com.au. If concern still exists about exposure levels or you do
not comply with the above practices, you should always consult a qualified
industrial hygienist or contact James Hardie for further information.

RAB™ BOARD INSTALLATION GUIDE AND TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION PAGE 3 OF 12

3 Design Considerations
All design and construction must comply with the appropriate 3.2.3 Sealing Tape
requirements of the current National Construction Code (NCC) and other Vertical joints, horizontal junction and windows must be sealed with a
applicable regulations and standards. suitable and approved sealing tape. James Hardie recommends using
either 3M All Weather Flashing 8067min 75mm wide or Pro Clima
TESCON EXTORA min 60mm wide .
3.1 FRAMING AND STRUCTURE
The sealing tapes must be pressed hard over the Hardie™ rigid air
3.1.1 Framing barriers surface while fixing so that they achieve the required bond. The
RAB™ Board is installed vertically over timber stud or light-gauge sealing tapes must not be exposed to elements for more than 180 days.
steel framing. The framing used must comply with the relevant building This achieves the required protection when the cladding is installed.The
regulations and standards. claddings must be installed within 180 days.
Steel framing must have the appropriate level of durability required to prevent
corrosion, particularly in coastal areas. Steel framing BMT must be between 3.3 STRUCTURAL DESIGN
0.55mm to 1.66mm. Refer to Table 1 for steel stud and fastener spacing.
Refer to the NASH standard or frame manufacturer for more information. 3.3.1 Design Wind Pressure
RAB™ Board is suitable to withstand high wind pressures in conjunction
Timber framing must be in accordance with framing manufacturer’s
with cladding and commercial façade systems. In these applications,
specifications.
RAB™ Board must be fixed directly to appropriate steel or timber framing
The builder is permitted to cut the RAB™ Boards to make up shorter members.
segments of wall, for example between openings, however boards must
Where Design Wind Pressure exceeds 7.0kPa please contact James
span over at least three studs so that a minimum two-span continuous
Hardie for more information.
arrangement is maintained. Do not fix boards in a single span layout.
NOTE: RAB™ Board has been designed for a lower wind speed on the
3.1.2 Tolerances basis that it is a temporary structure and must therefore be covered by a
Ensure frame is square and work from a central datum line. Frames suitable cladding or facade system within 6 months (180 days).
must be straight and true to provide a flush face to receive the sheeting.
A suggested maximum tolerance up to 4mm in any 3000mm length of TABLE 1 - STUD AND FASTENER SPACING
frame will give best results. RAB™ Board will not straighten excessively ULTIMATE DESIGN WIND PRESSURE
warped or distorted frames. Ultimate Design Wind Stud Spacing RABTM Board
Pressure – ULS (mm) Fastener Spacing
(kPa) (mm)
3.2 WATER MANAGEMENT 1.5 600 300
3.2.1 Water Control Classification 2.0 600 300
RAB™ Board is classified as a Water Barrier in accordance with the equivalent 2.5 450 300
water barrier classifications within AS/NZS 4200.1 ‘Pliable building 3.0 450 250
membranes and underlays, Part 1: Materials’ and AS 4201.4 ‘Resistance 3.5 450 225
to water penetration’. 4.0 400 225
4.5 400 200
RAB™ Board is factory sealed on the front face, CoreShield™
Technology, a penetrating sealer which repels moisture rapidly and resists 5.0 350 200
penetration, therefore no additional water barrier or sarking is required 5.5 350 200
when the jointing and taping is correctly applied. 6.0 300 200
6.5 300 200
3.2.2 Condensation Management
7.0 300 175
RAB™ Board is classified as Vapour Permeable (Class 4) when assessed
using the Vapour Permeance classifications of AS/NZS 4200.1 based on Notes to table 1:
testing in accordance with ASTM E96, and appraisal from BRANZ. 1. Table 1 is appropriate for V500 and V1000 regional wind designs.
2. RABTM Board has been designed for a lower wind speed with an annual recurrence interval (ARI) of 1:25, on the basis that it is
James Hardie recommends using a vapour permeable membrane in a temporary structure and must therefore be covered by the external façade within six months.
accordance with AS 4200.1:2017 and AS 4200.2:2017 such as RAB™ Board 3. The 6mm RABTM Board is designed to be supported/fixed onto its own stud-framing system, for example a minimum of
or equivalent in all external cladding in climate zones 2-8 (marked as green). 0.55mm gauge steel framing, independent of the external façade framing system. The external facade sheets may however
be fixed to the same framing as the RAB layer provided that (i) the RAB stud spacing is adequate for that product at the design
In Climate Zone 1, apply a vapour barrier membrane over the surface of wind loading level and (ii) the facade sheets are fixed through to the studs and do not rely on the RAB sheet for structural
support. Contact James Hardie if you wish to use timber framing for the RAB layer.
RAB™ Board in accordance with AS4200:2017.
4. The structural design and performance of any non-HardieTM façade system placed over the top of the RAB system, is the
responsibility of others.
•
Darwin

• Broome
Townsville •
• Port Hedland

Tropic of
Capricorn

Brisbane •

• Perth
• Adelaide Sydney •

Melbourne
•

Hobart
•

PAGE 4 OF 12 RAB™ BOARD INSTALLATION GUIDE AND TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

3.3.2 Structural Bracing 3.4.2 Fire Resistance Level (FRL)
When RAB™ Board is to be used as structural bracing it must be fixed Both one and two way fire rated wall systems are available with the
along the top and bottom edge (see Table 2). The spacing between the RAB™ Board when used as part of an external wall system. This
fixings depends on the required bracing capacity. Do not affix RAB™ will depend on the wall configuration and internal materials used. For
Board to a deflection head track. more information refer to the Hardie™ Fire and Acoustic Rated Walls
For more information and specification of fastener spacings, the designer Application Guide.
must refer to Hardie’s Structural Bracing Application Guide available at When RAB™ Board is installed as part of a fire rated wall system, the fire
www.jameshardie.com.au. rated plasterboard should be installed direct to the stud framing system,
and RAB™ Board installed over the top. Increase the length of the
TABLE 2 - BRACING CAPACITY specified fastener by the thickness of the plasterboard to ensure adequate
Bracing Capacity (kN/m)* Maximum Fastener
embedment.
Wall Configuration
Stud Spacing
Timber 0.55 BMT 0.75 BMT 3.5 ENERGY EFFICIENCY
stud Steel Stud Steel Stud Spacing A/B/C (mm)
(mm) 3.5.1 Airtighness
RAB™ Board - 3.0 3.3 600 200/200/200
RAB™ Board is classified as an air barrier in accordance with ISO
affixed to external 2.8 3.0 3.3 600 150/150/200 9237- 1995. RAB™ Board can be used as part of an airtight assembly
side of stud –
3.3 5.4 6.0 600 100/100/150 to satisfy the requirements of J1P1(e) NCC 2022 Vol 1. When installed
assuming standard
plasterboard or no 3.3 6.0 6.2 450 100/100/150 as part of an airtight assembly, with all joints and junctions adequately
internal lining~ 6.6 6.0 6.2 450 50/100/150 sealed, RAB™ Board can reduce leakage of internal air to achieve
occupant comfort air-change rates.
* Bracing capacity will be reduced where the wall is higher than 2.7metres. Walls that are 3m will require a reduction factor of 0.9.
Bracing capacity will be reduced for panels that are cut and installed less than 900m width. Refer to HardieTM Structural Bracing James Hardie recommends utilising the blower door test in accordance
Design Guide Tables 2 and 3 for more information.
with NCC Vol 1 J1V4 (Method 1 of AS/NZS ISO 9972), during and
after construction to validate the airtightness of the envelope, allowing
3.3.3 Fastener Selection
the designer to adjust by incorporating more ventilation or improve the
Fasteners must have the appropriate level of durability required for the intended building seal.
project. This is of particular importance in coastal areas, areas subject to salt
spray and other corrosive environments. James Hardie recommends using 3.5.2 Thermal Efficiency
minimum Class 3 fasteners in coastal areas. Section J of the NCC 2022 Vol 1 requires the structure to have certain
Fasteners must be fully compatible with all other materials that they are in degree of thermal performance to ensure a limited energy usage. Table 3
contact with to ensure the durability and integrity of the assembly. Contact presents different system variations and their respective R-Value required
fastener manufacturers for more information. as input data in the different compliance pathways (Assessed based on
AS4859.2:2018 Thermal Insulation Materials for Building. Part 2: Design).
For timber framing use a 2.8 x 30mm galvanised fibre cement nail.
Each calculation result is subject to any specific table requirements
For steel use 25mm HardieTM Drive Screw. and notes.
RABTM Board is sealed with CoreShieldTM Technology, the fasteners are not
required to be patched, sealed or otherwise treated. 3.6 GROUND CLEARANCE
NOTE: Fasteners must NOT be overdriven. Fasteners should be screwed as Install RAB™ Board with a minimum 150mm clearance to the earth on
close as possible to the stud corners to avoid deflection of the stud flange. the exterior of the building or in accordance with local building codes if
greater than 150mm is required. Maintain a minimum 50mm clearance
between RAB™ Board and roofs, decks, paths, steps and driveways.
30mm clearance is required for undercover balconies.
Adjacent finished grade must slope away from the building in
accordance with local building codes, typically a minimum slope of
50mm minimum over the first metre.
Do not install RAB™ Board such that it may remain in contact with
Unacceptable: Acceptable: Preferable: Acceptable: Unacceptable: Unacceptable: standing water.
Over driven Screw Drive screw flush Exposed nailing Flush nailing Under driven Over driven
3.6.1 Termite Protection for Timber Framing
The National Construction Code (NCC) specifies the requirements for
3.4 FIRE SAFETY termite barriers. Where the exposed slab edge is used as part of the
3.4.1 Non-Combustibility termite barrier system, a minimum of 75mm of the exposed slab edge
must be visible to permit ready detection of termite entry.
RAB™ Board is a pre-sealed fibre cement sheet manufactured to
comply with AS/NZS 2908.2:2000 Cellulose-cement products - Flat 3.7 TEMPORARY WEATHER PROTECTION
Sheets (ISO 8336 Fibre-cement flat sheets) and is therefore suitable
Installation of internal lining can be started after Hardie™ rigid air barriers
where non-combustible materials are required in accordance with
have been installed on the exterior of the building envelope. In order to
Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions of the NCC Volume One Amendment 1.
achieve this, all sheet joints and penetrations must be sealed and the
(Refer to Section C, Part C2, C2D10).
roof, soffit lining, windows/doors (including flashings) must have been
The nominated accessories, including the tapes and jointers are have installed to ensure the building is weathertight.
been assessed in accordance with the exemptions and concessions
The selected cladding must be installed within 180 days.
within the fire safety provisions of the NCC (refer to advisory note IGNS-
8057). The project specifier or certifier is responsible for ensuring that
the materials, accessories and components are suitable and compliant
for the specific building.

RAB™ BOARD INSTALLATION GUIDE AND TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION PAGE 5 OF 12

3.8 FACADE SYSTEM
The claddings/facades used over Hardie™ rigid air barriers must satisfy
the various performance requirements of the NCC 2022.

TABLE 3 - TYPICAL FACADE SYSTEMS INCORPORATING RABTM BOARD

HardieTM and intermediate top hats HardieTM and intermediate top hats
1
fixed to structural noggins fixed to 15mm horizontal top hats
3

2 Thermal Thermal Thermal Thermal Wall Thermal Thermal Thermal Thermal Wall
5 4 Stud Stud Batt R-Value R-Value U-Value U-Value Acoustic thickness R-Value R-Value U-Value U-Value Acoustic thickness
Spacing Size Size Summer 3 Winter 3 Summer Winter (Rw)4 (mm) Summer 3 Winter 3 Summer Winter (Rw)4 (mm)

600 1.33 1.43 0.75 0.70 1.54 1.65 0.65 0.61

6
450 64mm R1.5 1.27 1.36 0.79 0.74 45 124 1.46 1.56 0.69 0.64 47 139
300 1.17 1.25 0.86 0.80 1.32 1.41 0.76 0.71
1 10mm plasterboard.
2 Min 0.55mm Steel stud
with fibreglass insulation (64, 92, or 150mm).
600 1.74 1.86 0.57 0.54 2.12 2.27 0.47 0.44
Noggins spaced at 900mm centers.
3 6mm RABTM Board. 450 92mm R2.5 1.64 1.74 0.61 0.57 47 152 1.96 2.09 0.51 0.49 50 167
If an FRL is required fire resistant plasterboard 300 1.46 1.55 0.68 0.64 1.71 1.82 0.59 0.55
must be installed to stud underneath the RABTM
Board in accordance with HardieTM Fire and
Acoustic Rated Walls Guide.
4 15mm horizontal top hats spaced at 600 1.85 1.97 0.54 0.51 2.19 2.36 0.46 0.42
900mm centers. 450 150mm R2.5 1.75 1.86 0.57 0.54 50 210 2.05 2.20 0.49 0.46 54 225
5 35mm HardieTM Top hat fixing system.
6 ExoTecTM Facade Panels. 300 1.58 1.68 0.63 0.60 1.81 1.94 0.55 0.52

Notes:
1. The above estimates the resulting (overall) Total R for the whole wall surface (excluding glazing) from the 4. Refer to HardieTM Fire & Acoustic Rated Wall Application Guide or call James Hardie on 13 11 03 for increased fire and
parallel heat paths. Insulation R adjusted for its mean temperatures for 18°C indoor and 12 °C outdoor acoustic performance. The presented Rw is an acoustic estimate only and was produced using a software tool called
winter, or 24 °C indoor and 36 °C outdoor summer, Australia. Indoor and outdoor air temperatures per INSUL. Comparisons with test data show that it is generally within 3 STC points for most constructions.
AS/NZS4859.2:2018 Clause 5.1. For full report access, please contact James Hardie. 5. If 12mm ExoTecTM cladding (R0.020) is used instead of 9mm ExoTecTM cladding (R0.015), all Total R results will increase
2. Steel frame systems have been estimated with a nominal Base Metal Thickness (BMT) of 0.75mm. by 0.005.
For frames with BMT of 0.55mm or lower the overall Total R-Value may be increased by 0.1. 6. 10mm plasterboard has R0.059, so for VillaboardTM (R0.013) indoor lining, subtract 0.046 from the above Total R results.
3. Overall resulting R Value per AS/NZS 4859.2:2018 Clause 4.3. Total transmittance (U) calculated by 7. RABTM Board is assumed to be non-reflective on both sides, if the cavity side was reflective, all total R Values results
U=1/R. Total R & U values include indoor and outdoor air film. would increase by about 0.5.

3.9 COMPLIANCE AND CERTIFICATION

When used as part of a façade system, RAB™ Board replaces the In addition, James Hardie has conducted a series of tests to determine
‘sarking’ layer (pliable building membrane) as the weather barrier. Because RAB™ Board’s suitability as a secondary weather barrier behind cladding
RAB™ Board is rigid, and not a pliable membrane, it must be certified (see Table 4), and as a temporary weather protection for 180 days (see
as an alternative to NCC Volume One, F3D3. RAB™ Board has been Table 5).
subjected to full scale weatherproofing testing in accordance with AS/ James Hardie can provide any relevant documentation, such as test
NZS 4284 as part of Hardie’s ExoTec Façade system, which can be used certificates, to certifiers, engineers and surveyors upon request via our
to demonstrate compliance with F3P1 Weatherproofing. Engineering Solutions team on 13 11 03.

TABLE 4 - RABTM Board Physical and Performance Properties

Property Result Test Method or Standard NCC Requirement
Weathertightness Suitable for use as a weather barrier behind a AS/NZS 4284 F3P1 Weatherproofing
cladding or facade system with a drained cavity
Water Control Category Water Barrier AS/NZS 4200.1 (AS 4201.4)
Air Control Category Air Barrier (<0.6cm2/cm2 Sec) ISO 9237
Vapour Control Category Vapour Permeable - Class 4 (0.72 MN s/g) AS/NZS 4200.1 (ASTM E96B)
Non-combustible Construction Suitable for non-combustible construction DTS via C1.9(e)(iv) via AS/NZS 2908.2 (ISO 8336) C1P2 Fire Spread
Flammability Index 0,0,0,0-1 AS 1530.3
Material R-Value 0.016m2K/W ASTM C 518 J1P1 Energy Use
Thermal Expansion 0.4x10-6 C-1 AS 4459.8 B1P1 Structural Reliability

TABLE 5 - RABTM Board Temporary Weather Protection Properties

Property Result Test Method or Standard
Vapour Resistance 0.72 MN s/g ASTM E96 B
Vapour Permeance 1.37μg/N.S (Class 4) AS/NZS 4200.1
Water Permeability Passes AS/NZS 2908.2
Water Barrier Passes AS/NZS 4201.4
Water Resistance 199.1g/m2 AS/NZS 4201.6

PAGE 6 OF 12 RAB™ BOARD INSTALLATION GUIDE AND TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

4 Product & Accessory Details

RABTM Board is installed

vertically with green side m
30m
facing outwards.

1
3

Min. 60mm
sealing tape
m
15 in.
mm
Damp proof
course
Seal joints
with approved
flashing tape

COMPONENTS
1 6mm RABTM Board
A 6mm specialised fibre cement rigid air barrier that can be used Product Code Length (mm) Width (mm) Weight (kg) Pack Size
beneath cladding, providing added protection against the elements. Vertical install over 600, 400 and 300mm framing
This panel is sealed with James Hardie’s innovative CoreShield™
402980 2450 1200 24.0 40
penetrating sealer technology, keeping water, air and wind out,
Thickness: 6mm while allowing moisture vapour to easily escape. Easy to install and 405131 2750 1200 26.8 40
Mass: 8.7kg/m2 can be exposed for up to 180 days before installing the cladding. 402981 3000 1200 30.0 40

ACCESSORIES
2 HardieTM 6mm 2 HardieTM PVC 3 Sealing Tape
PVC Flashing Mould Straight Jointer

A PVC extrusion for multicourse fixing of A PVC extrusion used to vertically join Tape used to seal vertical joints and flash
6mm thick sheets. 3000mm long. sheets over a concrete column around window, door and pipe penetrations.
Product Code: 305552 Product code: 305546 Recommended Tapes:
- 3M All Weather Flashing 8067 min 75mm wide
- Pro Clima TESCON EXTORA min 60mm wide
Please contact James Hardie for alternative
tape specifications.

FASTENERS
4 Hardie™ Drive Screw 4 Hardie™ Drive Screw 4 Fibre Cement Nail
25mm Collated 25mm

A Class 3 self-tapping wing tipped screw A Class 3 self-tapping wing tipped screw T2.8 x 30mm fibre-cement nail for timber
for fastening 0.5mm to 1.6mm BMT light for fastening 0.5mm to 1.6mm BMT light frame. Not supplied by James Hardie.
gauges steel frames. 1000 per box. gauges steel frames. Suitable for use in
Product Code: 305979 most auto feed screw guns.
Product Code: 305980

TOOLS
Villaboard™ Knife HardieTM HardieTM Blade Saw Dust reducing saw with M class
Fibreshear Blade 185mm Dia. vacuum or greater extraction

A score and snap knife designed to Electric tool for cutting fibre cement sheets. Poly-diamond blade for HardieTM fibre With HardieTM Blade saw blade used to cut
efficiently cut through fibre cement Product Code: 300653 cement. Pack Size: 1 each. HardieTM fibre cement.
sheets. Product Code: 305915 Product Code: 300660

RAB™ BOARD INSTALLATION GUIDE AND TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION PAGE 7 OF 12

5 Installation
LAYOUT & FIXING
STEP STEP STEP

1 Ensure your
frame is
2 Cut RABTM
Board to 3
square, and size.
suitable to fix
RABTM Boards
vertically.

Damp
proof
Use the Villaboard™ course
Knife or Hardie™
RABTM Boards must be Blade saw blade in
installed vertically direct m
to the stud frame with
accordance with Part 2 15 in. Boards should
Safe Working Practices . mm overlap slab
the green side facing to cut the sheets. minm edge by 15mm.
outwards. 75m

TAPING
STEP STEP STEP

4 5 6 Min. 30mm
tape overlap

Refer to Table 1 for

fastener spacing. NOTE:
12 RABTM Board
12
mm
mm must be installed
before windows.
m
0m
15
1122mmm Do not overdrive,
m fixing heads must mm
50m Boards should
be flush with frorners
2m overlap slab edge
2mm RABTM surface. co
m RABTM Board must min by 15mm. Tape
. 30 bottom edges
be fixed on-stud. Fasteners fixed mm
around the perimeter of boards to
Fix 12mmm from Damp proof slab with 30mm
sheet edges. of the opening. course overlap.

STEP STEP STEP

7 8 Ensure tape
extends up
9
to flashing
upstand.
.
min
mm Extend RABTM
30
Board sheets
mm
. 30 over the edge of
min Overlap the
m the concrete slab
30m
second RABTM and join with the
Board over PVC jointer. Apply
the horizontal tape over the PVC
jointer by Jointer to seal
Tape vertical joints and corners 30mm, to seal over the slab.
with a minimum 30mm overlap the joint.
at any point where two lengths
of tape meet.

STEP STEP STEP

10 RABTM Board and

other surfaces must 11 max.
100mm 12
be clean, and free
min.
from dust to ensure
200mm
tape adhesion.
Apply pressure
using a roller,
squeegee or similar
to adhere tape. max.
100mm

100m
Inspect facade and apply mm
in. co Apply min 60x60mm
minimum 60x60mm tape ver
strip of tape over any
over any holes, punctures holes or punctures.
or penetrations.

PAGE 8 OF 12 RAB™ BOARD INSTALLATION GUIDE AND TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

WINDOWS AND OPENINGS
STEP STEP STEP

12 60
mm
13 14 30m
m

60
mm

Apply another layer of

same size tape over
Measure and cut flashing the adhered tape with
tape lengths to extend 60mm Slice and fold the flashing 30mm overlap and
beyond head, sill and jambs. tape over the window sill. up the jamb.

STEP STEP STEP

15 16 Apply tape to
jambs, allowing a 17
30mm overhang

30
mm

Cut the overhang Cut the overhang

30 and fold into the
and fold down over mm
the window sill frame, press firmly
corner on both sides. to ensure adhesion.

STEP STEP STEP

18 Apply tape to the

window head 19 20 Corrosion
resistant
flashing with
150
mm
allowing 30mm
overhang min. 75mm
mm
30 upstand

Install window head flashing,

Cut overhang and and window in accordance with
fold into the frame, manufacturers instructions.
press firmly ensuring Tape head flashing to
adhesion. RABTM Board.

RAB™ BOARD INSTALLATION GUIDE AND TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION PAGE 9 OF 12

6 Construction Details
FASTENER AND FIXING DETAILS
1200 panel width 100 1200 panel width 100
NOTE: Do not fix NOTE: Do not fix
HardieTM Drive to deflection HardieTM Drive to deflection
screw head track. screw head track
Maximum Maximum
RABTM Board stud spacing RABTM Board stud spacing Additional horizontal
-refer to -refer to track or nogging
Table 1 Table 2

Refer to Table 1 B

Refer to C
Table 1 Fixing to noggings Fixing to noggings
not required not required

2mm 2mm

NOTE:
Refer to 12mm
12mm For A/B/C
Table 1
spacings refer to A A
Table 3.
12 min. 50mm 12 min. 12 min. 50mm 12 min.
2 nom. joint 2 nom. joint 2 nom. joint 2 nom. joint

FIGURE 2 STEEL FIXING LAYOUT (NO BRACING) FIGURE 3 STEEL FIXING LAYOUT FOR STRUCTURAL BRACING

HORIZONTAL SLAB JUNCTION DETAILS

1200 panel width 100

Fibre cement
nails
Maximum 6mm RABTM
RABTM Board stud spacing Board
-refer to
Table 2

Refer to Table 2
Min 60mm
sealing tape
Refer to
Table 1 Fixing to noggings
not required
DPC

Concrete slab
2mm or block work

Ground level
Refer to
12mm
Table 2

12 min. 50mm 12 min. 50 - 150mm clearance

2 nom. joint 2 nom. joint (Refer to Ground Clearances Section)

FIGURE 4 TIMBER FIXING LAYOUT (NO BRACING) FIGURE 5 BASE DETAIL GROUND FLOOR

6mm RABTM Board

6mm
RABTM
Board Min 60mm
sealing tape

Concrete slab Max. 200mm

or edge beam
Min 60mm
sealing tape Max.
200mm Leave gap of 6mm +
expected deflection
Concrete slab / footing Max.
200mm Either HardieTM 6mm
min.
Waterproofing membrane applied to 15mm PVC Flashing or 9mm
suitable tray flashing in accordance Aluminium Horizontal
30mm
with manufacturer's specifications h Flashing depending
and Australian standards Deflection head on project conditions.
Maximum 25mm
Foam backing rod
NOTE:
Do not fix
Suitable Tape
to deflection
Tile head track
Mortar bed
6mm RABTM Board

FIGURE 6 BASE DETAIL BALCONY FIGURE 7 HORIZONTAL SLAB JUNCTION (CONTINUOUS)

PAGE 10 OF 12 RAB™ BOARD INSTALLATION GUIDE
 NOTE: Ensure concrete
edge is sufficiently sealed
from water penetration
Steel Stud Concrete structure Steel Stud

6mm gap

Min. 60mm
Concrete slab or
Sealing Tape
edge beam

Min. 60mm
Sealing Tape

6mm gap
Deflection head
100mm
6mm RABTM max.
External Hardie 6mm
TM
Min. 60mm Fixing Board NOTE:
6mm RABTM
Cladding straight jointer Sealing Tape System Do not fix
Board
to deflection
head track

FIGURE 8 VERTICAL COLUMN JUNCTION (CONTINUOUS) FIGURE 9 HORIZONTAL SLAB JUNCTION (BUTTED)

NOTE: Ensure concrete

edge is sufficiently sealed
from water penetration
Concrete structure Steel Stud

Steel Stud Concrete slab or

edge beam

Min. 30mm

HardieTM Joint 6-20mm gap

Sealant and 100mm
Backing Rod max.
Min. 60mm
Sealing Tape
Flashing trim
Deflection
head

6mm RABTM
Board
6mm RABTM HardieTM Joint Sealant and Min. 60mm External Fixing
Board Backing Rod Sealing Tape Cladding System

FIGURE 10 VERTICAL COLUMN JUNCTION (BUTTED) FIGURE 11 UNDER SLAB JUNCTION

JOINTS

NOTE:
Where RABTM
Board is used
as an airtight
layer, apply tape
over the joint.
50mm

6mm

Either HardieTM
6mm PVC
2mm gap Flashing or
9mm Aluminium
50mm Horizontal
h Flashing
depending on
6mm project
Min. 60mm
RABTM conditions.
12mm 12mm Sealing
Board Tape

FIGURE 12 VERTICAL SHEET JOINT FIGURE 13 HORIZONTAL SHEET JOINT

RAB™ BOARD INSTALLATION GUIDE AND TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION PAGE 11 OF 12
 Packer

Wall Backing rod

HardieTM Joint Sealant

Flexible sealant Foam backing rod

6mm gap 6mm

RABTM
Min. 60mm Board
Sealing Tape

12 12
6mm RABTM Board mm mm Min. 60mm
Sealing Tape

FIGURE 14 VERTICAL CONTROL JOINT FIGURE 15 ABUTMENT TO MASONRY WALL FOR BALCONY INFILL

CORNERS

6mm
RABTM
Board

Min.
60mm
Sealing
6mm RABTM
Board Tape

Min. 60mm
Sealing Tape NOTE:
Do not create a radius
on an internal corner.
6mm gap 6mm gap Roll the tape to ensure
a tight seal
6mm
RABTM
Board

FIGURE 16 EXTERNAL CORNER FIGURE 17 INTERNAL CORNER

WINDOWS
Internal Lining

Tape head flashing to RABTM

Board (Min. 60mm Sealing Tape)
6mm RABTM Board

6mm RABTM Solid Packer and

Board fixing to Window Solid Packer and
Manufacturer’s fixing to Window
Specification Manufacturer’s
Specification
Backing Window
Rod and 6mm head
sealant nom. flashing

Min.
60mm Min. 60mm Backing
Sealing Sealing Tape Rod and
Tape back into frame sealant

Flashing

FIGURE 18 FLUSH WINDOW JAMB FIGURE 19 FLUSH WINDOW HEAD

 Min. 60mm
Sealing
Tape back
into frame

Backing Rod
and sealant

Solid Packer and

External
fixing to Window
cladding
Manufacturer’s
Specification

6mm
RABTM Internal
Board Lining
Fixing
system

FIGURE 20 FLUSH WINDOW SILL

PARAPET
Metal hold down Hardwood support
clips scew through Positive fall toward screw fixed to
s
inside face of par structural framing
apet

Structure

Capping
overlap
50mm
min.

30
mm

External 1º 2º
cladding to assure
hugging fit
External
cladding
fixing system

6mm RABTM Parapet

Board lining

FIGURE 21 PARAPET DETAIL

PAGE 13 OF 12 RAB™ BOARD INSTALLATION GUIDE

7 Product Information
PRODUCT INFORMATION
Material
The basic composition of Hardie™ building products is Portland cement,
ground sand, cellulose fibre, water and proprietary additives.
Hardie™ building products are manufactured to AS/NZS 2908.2
‘Cellulose-Cement Products-Flat Sheet’. These are also compliant
with equivalent standard ISO 8336 ‘Fibre-cement flat sheets - Product
specification and test methods’. For product classification refer to the
relevant Physical Properties Data Sheet.

Durability
Resistance to Moisture/Rotting
RAB™ Boards have demonstrated resistance to permanent moisture
induced deterioration (rotting) by passing the following tests in
accordance with AS/NZS 2908.2:
For water permeability, heat rain, warm water and soak dry refer to
Certificate of Physical Properties of RAB™ Board.

Alpine Regions
Hardie™ external cladding products are tested for resistance to frost
in accordance with AS/NZS 2908.2. Refer to Certificate of Physical
Properties for RAB™ Board.

PAGE 14 OF 12 RAB™ BOARD INSTALLATION GUIDE AND TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

RAB™ BOARD INSTALLATION GUIDE AND TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION PAGE 15 OF 12
For information and advice
call 13 11 03 | jameshardie.com.au
Australia February 2024
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™ and ® denote a trademark or registered mark owned by James Hardie Technology Limited.