Technical Manual

plank™
Contents plank™
Designed to attain pure luxury
Aesthetic Cladding | Decorative Fencing | Gable End Cladding | External Wall Cladding |
Fascia Board | Decking | Flooring | Ceiling | Eaves Lining

1. Introduction 03
1.1 General
1.2 Applications
1.3 Features & Benefits
1.4 Tests and Certification

2. General Fixing Instructions 03

2.1 Material Selection
2.2 Framing Specification
2.3 Batten Specification
2.4 Fasteners
2.5 Sealing Joints & Gaps
2.6 Jointing Against Other Materials

3. External Wall & Gable End Cladding 04

3.1 General
3.2 Framing Construction
3.3 Flashing
3.4 Sarking
3.5 Plank Overlaps
3.6 Installation Procedures
3.7 Fixing to Timber
3.8 Fixing to Steel
3.9 Joints
3.10 Ground Clearance
3.11 Corners
3.12 Details at Openings

4. Cladding to Masonry Wall 07

4.1 General
4.2 Battening Requirement
4.3 Installation Method
4.4 Sarking
4.5 Jointing
4.6 Corners
4.7 Openings
4.8 Wall to Eaves Junction
Contents plank™
Designed to attain pure luxury
Aesthetic Cladding | Decorative Fencing | Gable End Cladding | External Wall Cladding |
Fascia Board | Decking | Flooring | Ceiling | Eaves Lining

5. Fascia Board 09
5.1 General
5.2 Support
5.3 Installation
5.4 Joints

6. Decorative Fencing 10
6.1 General
6.2 Framing Requirememt
6.3 Installation

7. Ceiling & Eaves Lining 11

7.1 Genaral
7.2 Framing Requirememt
7.3 Installation

8. Decking / Flooring 13
8.1 Genaral
8.2 Framing Requirememt
8.3 Installation

9. Finishes Recommendation 16

10. Working Instructions 16

10.1 Cutting
10.2 Drilling
10.3 Handling & Stroage
1 Introduction

1.1 General 1.4 Tests and Certification

is an autoclaved cellulose fibre reinforced cement siding
plank™ plank™ meets the national & international fibre cement
board manufactured by Hume Cemboard Industries Sdn Bhd, an ISO standards, namely MS 1296, ISO 8336, AS/NZS 2908.2, BSEN 12467
9001 and ISO 14001 certified company. Manufactured from Portland and ASTMC 1186.
cement, cellulose fibre, finely ground sand and water, plank™ has
1.4.1 Serviceable Life
become extremely popular when a relatively maintenance free
When installed and maintained as per good building practice and
timber planking appearance is desired.
specifications described in this manual, plank™ is expected to
1.2 Applications have serviceable life of 50 years.
plank™ is designed for external applications where superb
1.4.2 Standard Sizes and Mass
weatherability and long-lasting durability form part and parcel of
plank™ comes in standard thickness of 7.5mm, 9mm, 12mm,
performance criteria. These applications includes:-
16mm and 25mm. It is available in three patterns:
• External wall cladding
• Gable end cladding
• Aesthetic cladding
• Fascia board plank™ - Smooth
• Gate and fencing is available with a flat unsanded
• Ceiling surface
• Skirting
• Floor and Decking
plank™ is used where there is a requirement for traditional timber
look and to add character and depth to flat mundane surfaces. plank™ - Woodgrain
1.3 Features & Benefits has an enhanced timber texture
• Natural timber look on the front surface
• Weather resistant
• Will not rust or rot
• Termite resistant
• Does not warp or twist plank™ - Timbergrain
• Fire resistant- Class 'O' is straight grain timber texture,
• Aesthetically Pleasing available on one surface or two surfaces
• Environmentally Friendly

2 General Fixing Instructions

2.1 Material Selection Framing components must have adequate durability for the intended
plank™ thickness should be selected based on the intended use. These durability criteria shall among others include resistance to
applications. For general cladding, fascia board and fencing weather; corrosion and pest (i.e. termite attack).
applications, 7.5mm thick plank is adequate. When higher
Framing timber should be thoroughly dry and selected to minimize
performance (stronger and more impact resistant) material is desired,
shrinkage when planks are installed.
use 9.0mm or thicker plank™.
Steel framing must be fabricated from cold-formed galvanized light
For best result, the use of 9.0mm thick plank™ is highly recommended
gauge steel or zincalume steel of a minimum 0.55mm to 1.60mm
for fascia board application where rafters are to be exposed (in
base metal thickness.
absence of eaves lining board).
As the straightness of finished wall is highly dependent on
Refer to plank™ product brochure for information on applications
workmanship of framework, best result can be achieve when frame
based on product thickness, standard length and width dimensions
straightness is between 3mm to 4mm in any 3000mm length.
and texture profile.
2.3 Batten Specification
Trimming plank to a size less than the standard width will reduce its
Thick hot rolled structural steel sections and masonry wall must be
capacity to withstand loads. In instances where reduced-width planks
battened prior to installation of plank™ cladding.
are desirable such as for fencing application, always refer to Hume
Cemboard before specifying or applying them. Use timber batten with a minimum of 25mm thick x 50mm wide to
allow adequate nail penetration.
Do not apply plank™ in areas where it remains in contact with
standing water. Steel battens must have a minimum 35mm face width. They are
typically 'Z' or top hat sections. Use only galvanised light gauge steel
2.2 Framing Specification
/ zincalume of a minimum 0.55mm to 1.60mm base metal thickness.
plank™ can be applied to timber or light gauge steel framing
members. Construction shall be in accordance with local building
practice.

03
2.4 Fasteners
Select the appropriate type of fasteners based on the type of framing.
Fasteners should have acceptable level of durability and be suitably
coated for the intended application.
At least class 3 external grade finish fasteners must be used for
external applications.
Fasteners must be compatible with all materials that they are in
contact with to ensure the durability & integrity of the system.
plank™ can be fixed by hand nailing or air gun nailing. For screw
fixing, use screw gun with high torque and variable speed of zero to
2,500 revolution per minute fitted with a depth control attachment.
Nail head should finish flush with the plank™ face and avoid
overdriving.
Table: Fastener Specification
Drive screw slightly below the plank face and cover fastener head
with exterior grade jointing compound jointing compound .
Smoothen with sandpaper if necessary before painting.
2.5 Sealing Joints and Gaps
Gaps at plank joints, corners and openings must be sealed with
flexible/ paintable polyurethane sealant. Sealant must be compatible
with cementitious panel products. Apply masking tape at both plank
edges and start filling the bottom edge and squeezing the sealant in
the upward direction. Use spatula to smoothen and remove any
excess sealant Remove masking tape immediately upon completion.
Sealant manufacturer's instruction must be adhered to. Sealant must
only be painted as recommended by the manufacturer.
2.6 Jointing Against other Material
When butt jointing plank™ and other building materials such as
masonry wall, a minimum of 6mm gap must be provided. Seal gap
with paintable/ flexible sealant, as shown in Figure 1.

Fasteners to Timber Fasteners to Steel

masonry wall

2.8mm Ø x 30mm Galvanised Nails Self-embedding head, self-drilling

2.8mm Ø x 40mm Galvanised Nails “Wing Teks” Screws for fastening to
(for plank thickness 16 & 25mm) 0.55mm to 1.60mm BMT steel frames
1
No.8 X 1 8 (28mm) for plank
thickness ≤ 12mm
1
No.8 X 1 4 (32mm) for plank
thickness - 12mm & 16mm
3
No.8 X 1 4 (44mm) for plank
thickness - 25mm

apply sealant
Note:
1. Drive nail head snug or flush with plank face. vapour permeable sarking/
6mm
2. Pre-drilling is required when nailing between 20mm to 50mm from building paper (optional)
the plank end.
3. Drive screw heads not more than 1mm below plank face. plank™
4. Overdriven fastener point should be cover with exterior grade cladding
jointing compound before painting.
5. Hold plank firmly against the frame while driving the fasteners. Figure 1: Jointing with other material

3 External Wall & Gable End Cladding

3.1 General nogging

m g
plank™ is suitable for general wall cladding application when a top plate mu in
m axi spac
lightweight wall system is preferred. The usage includes construction stud m tud m mineral wool/ fibreglass
0m s s 60
0m
of new buildings such as residential dwellings and resorts. In addition, 60 ntre m insulation (optional)
ce 0m
60
plank™ can also be used for renovation/ extension of existing
mm
600
buildings especially in the construction of upper storey.
3.2 Framing Construction vapour permeable sarking/
building paper (optional)
plank must be supported at 600mm maximum centres. Refer
™

Figure 2. The minimum stud face width shall be as follows:- end joints to be staggered
• Timber framing - 50mm min. (refer joint detail options)
• Steel framing - 35mm min.
plank™
Timber framing is typically 50mm x 75mm and light-gauge metal cladding
framing is typically 35mm x 64mm x 0.55mm BMT.
ground clearance
When on-stud jointing is preferred, stud face width must be increased
to provide for adequate edge fixing distance. Use frame off-cuts to flashing
pack stud at plank joint if required. starter strip

Figure 2: Horizontal planking

04
3.3 Flashing 3.7 Fixing to Timber
When applied as external wall cladding it is a good building practice When applied onto timber framing, plank™ must be nailed at
to apply flashing material at corners, above the head and under the centre of overlap through both thicknesses, as shown in Figure 4.
sill of an opening.
3.4 Sarking
During windy condition, the external pressure would generally be
greater than the building's internal pressure. The pressure differential vapour permeable sarking/
building paper (optional)
will likely draw water into the wall cavity through the plank's joints
and laps. It is recommended to install vapour permeable sarking
between plank™ and the framing surface. The use of reflective
flat head nail fixed at
sarking will enhance the thermal insulation property of the cladding centre of overlap
system.
12mm min.
3.5 Plank Overlaps
For external cladding applications, plank must overlap the previous
course by a minimum of 25mm. Plank overlap may be increased to
achieve the desired exposed plank surface. Higher overlaps may also
improve the weatherproofing of a framed-wall particularly when plank™cladding
sarking material is not applied. When necessary, overlap may be
increased to obtain full-course planking to match the wall height.
To facilitate plank installation with consistent overlaps, use a lap
gauge. A lap gauge can be fabricated from plank™off-cuts or
timber piece. Refer Figure 3.

3.6 Installation Procedure 25mm min. overlap

These steps provide a general guide for installation of plank . ™

1. Ensure framing is true and align prior to fixing plank.™ internal lining board
2. Apply building paper sarking over the framework. ( liner™/ flex™)
3. Fix flashing at all internal and external corner and heads of
openings such as door and window.
4. Install timber moulds at internal and external corners. Figure 4: Fastening to timber frame
5. Secure a 40mm wide plank™starter strip or treated timber
strip along the bottom plate.
6. Use a spirit or water level to locate the top edge of the first 3.8 Fixing to Steel
course of the plank Planks are screwed to light gauge steel framing through the top
7. Drive a series of guide nails around the perimeter of the timber plank only. Refer Figure 5.
framework to indicate the top edge of the first course of the
plank.
8. Fix the first plank starting from the external corner. Set the top
vapour permeable sarking/
edge of the plank flush against the guide nails and the end building paper (optional)
abutting the (moderate contact) timber corner stop. Drive
fastener to the bottom plate through the plank thickness and
the starter strip at 200mm centres maximum.
9. Fix the balance of the planks of the first course around the
building. Planks may be joined with proprietor PVC jointer. 25mm min. overlap
10. Provide a minimum of 25mm overlap between each successive
plank course. Measure the total wall height to be clad and
calculate the suitable overlap so that a near full-width plank
finishes at the top of the clad wall. Remove the guide nails and plank™ cladding
continue the next course of the plank with an off-cut plank. This
is done to ensure that the plank joints would be staggered
between courses.
11. Check level occasionally. screw fixed through the
top plank only
7.5mm
new/ subsequent
plank course
sarking/ building
25mm min. overlap
previous course

stud internal lining board

( liner™/ flex™
7.5mm
x= net cover width (plank width - overlap) Figure 3: plank™ Lap gauge
eg 230mm - 25mm = 205mm Figure 5: Fastening to steel frame

05
3.9 Joints
Joint options are shown below. When applied as wall cladding, plank
joints should preferably be staggered between each plank course.
plank™ "off-stud" jointing method incorporates proprietary PVC
jointer between plank ends. Refer Figure 6.
internal lining board plank™ cladding
( liner™/ flex™

vapour permeable sarking/

stud
vapour permeable sarking/
building paper (optional)
building paper (optional)
damp-proof course
or flashing exterior grade timber
or fibre cement trim

150mm min. clearance

PVC jointer

concrete slab

plank™ cladding Figure 8: Ground Clearance

3.11 Corners
Internal and external corners may be finished with timber stops as
illustrated in Figure 9.

internal lining
Figure 6: Off-stud joint
corner studs

vapour permeable sarking/

building paper (optional)
On-stud jointing can be done by butt jointing plank ends with
moderate contact. Alternatively, provide a nominal 3mm gap and seal flashing (not required when
joint with exterior grade paintable/ flexible sealant. Refer Figure 7. reflective sarking is used)

plank™ cladding
25 x 50mm timber stop
trim-packing for narrow stud as required External Corner
(at plank joint only) 25 x 25mm timber stop

vapour permeable sarking/

building paper (optional) Figure 9: Timber stop corners Internal Corner

ap
mg
3m
Alternatively, when timber posts are utilized, plank ends abutted to
nailing to support (pre-drilling the side of the posts. Refer Figure 10.
when nailing between 20mm
to 50mm from plank end)

moderate contact or allow

3mm gap and seal gap with stud
paintable/ flexible sealant timber post

plank™cladding
plank™cladding
3mm gap (apply sealant)
Figure 7: On-stud joint vapour permeable sarking/
building paper (optional)

3.10 Ground Clearance External corner

Provide a minimum of 150mm clearance between bottom edge of
internal lining
plank (or starter strip) and the earth as shown in Figure 8.
Internal corner

Figure 10: Timber post corners

06
 3.12 Details at Openings
When applying plank at around window or door openings, allow an
internal lining board
approximately 5mm clearance at the sill, jamb and head. Seal gap ( liner™/ flex™ )
with paintable/ flexible sealant Do not apply sealant between head
flashing and plank edge.

optional vapour permeable

sarking to lap over flashing
plank™cladding
head flashing
backing piece as required vapour permeable sarking/
building paper (optional) lintel
5mm gap
between plank nominal 5mm clearance
and flashing (do not apply sealant)
window frame
5mm clearance minimum 25mm
around opening architrave
(apply sealant) thick window trim
head flashing

plank™cladding

full plank width is recommended window frame

Figure 11: Window/ door opening detail

Figure 12: Head Flashing Detail

window frame

backing piece as required

window frame architrave

architrave internal lining board
sill flashing ( liner™/ flex™)

backing piece as required

vapour permeable sarking/

building paper (optional)
internal lining board
( liner™/
nominal 5mm
plank™cladding flex™ clearance plank™cladding
(apply sealant)
vapour permeable sarking/
building paper (optional)

Figure 13: Sill Flashing Detail Figure 14: Door/ window jamb detail

4 Cladding To Masonry Wall

4.1 General
plank™ can be clad onto masonry wall to enhance the aesthetic
appearance of residential or commercial buildings.
4.2 Battening Requirement
Masonry wall must be battened prior to applying plank™ . Battens
must be spaced vertically at 600mm maximum centres. Ensure
batten's straightness is within the acceptable tolerance. Battens must
be adequately fastened onto the masonry wall.
4.3 Installation Method
plank™ may be installed horizontally. In any case, support must
be provided at 600mm centres. lnstallation method is similar to that
of external cladding application.
Battens can be applied directly onto relatively flat/ even masonry
wall. Refer Figure 15.
Provide spacers or brackets when battening uneven masonry wall as
shown in Figure 16. Alternatively, sub-framing may be installed
horizontally to uneven surface at approximately 1500mm maximum
interval before securing the battens. All framing components must be
adequately secured onto masonry wall. Consult a qualified engineer
to verify structural adequacy if required.

07
 masonry wall masonry wall

vapour permeable sarking/ vapour permeable sarking/ framing spacer or

building paper (optional) building paper (optional) bracket at
1200mm centres
timber/ steel batten installed
vertically at 600mm max. centres timber/ steel batten installed
vertically at 600mm max. centres
plank ™
cladding installed horizontal
plank™ cladding installed horizontal

Figure 15: Battening onto flat masonry wall Figure 16: Battening onto uneven masonry wall

4.4 Sarking
masonry wall
It is recommended to install a vapour permeable sarking material on
vapour permeable sarking/
the masonry wall prior to fixing battens. building paper (optional)
4.5 Jointing
Planks can be jointed with PVC jointer or Butt Joined. These jointing
methods are similar to the external cladding joints shown in Figure 6
& 7.
timber/ steel batten installed
4.6 Corners vertically at 600mm max. centres
Internal and external corners can be decorated with exterior grade
timber trim. Trim can also be fabricated using plank™ cladding, plank™ cladding
cut to the desired width. Refer Figure 17.
nominal 5mm clearance
(apply sealant)

External Corner in-situ concrete or

pre-formed coping
to architect’s approval
window frame
masonry wall

exterior timber or
Figure 18: Window head detail
fibre cement trim

window frame
in-situ concrete or
pre-formed coping
plank™cladding to architect’s approval

vapour permeable sarking/

building paper (optional)
internal Corner nominal 5mm clearance
(apply sealant)
Figure 17: Corner details vapour permeable sarking/
building paper (optional)
4.7 Opening
Door or window opening may be finished with trims. Provide Smm plank™ cladding
gap between plank™and trims around the opening as described masonry wall
in Figure11.
When desired, opening may be decorated with in-situ concrete or
pre-formed coping as illustrated in Figure 18, 19 and 20. Figure 19: Window sill detail

08
 4.8 Wall-to-Eaves Junction
window frame Provide adequate ventilation between masonry wall and plank™
cladding. The ventilation can either be provided through the roof or
masonry wall below the eaves. Ventilated path though the roof is depicted in
vapour permeable sarking/ Figure 21 below.
building paper (optional)

plank™
fascia board
ventilation through
soffit/ roof

liner™/ flex™
eaves lining board masonry wall
masonry wall
vapour permeable sarking/
building paper (optional)

in-situ concrete or
plank™cladding
pre-formed coping plank™cladding
to architect’s approval nominal 5mm clearance
(apply sealant)

timber/ steel batten installed

Figure 20: Window jamb detail vertically at 600mm max. centres

Figure 21: Wall ventilation detail

5 Fascia Board Introductions

5.1 General
plank™ superior durability makes it a perfect choice for fascia board
around the roof perimeter. With the choice of various surface texture, rafter/ truss at 600mm centres
plank™fascia board
plank™ fascia board is not only aesthetically pleasing but also fastener
cost effective.
5.2 Support
plank™ fascia board is normally fixed to timber or metal rafters/ roof batten
trusses with spacing not exceeding 600mm centres. When support
spacing exceeds 600mm, provide a continuous battening behind the
fascia board. Alternatively, a 'dummy' rafter/ truss should be provided
as intermediate support. The use of 9mm thick plank is highly
recommended when support spacing is more than 600mm centres.
5.3 Installation
Apply a minimum of 2 fasteners at each rafter or truss end. Drive
at .
fastener 12mm from plank edge and 50mm from corner. er ax
s ten m m
fa 0m
Fix a metal angle capping at ends of metal rafters/ trusses to facilitate 30
plank™ fascia board installation as described in Figure 23. PVC mould (to be located not
more than 150mm away from rafter/
Fixings of attachment (such as bracket for gutter) to fascia board truss in absence of eaves lining batten)
must be connected to the roof structural element.
5.4 Joints timber beading as required eaves
Planks can be jointed with PVC jointer or Butt Joined. Provide 3mm lining batten/ support
gap if joint is to be sealed. These jointing options are shown in Figure *PVC mould is available for
22 & 23. When Off-support Joint without PVC jointer is preferred, 7.5mm thick plank only
provide additional metal/ timber backing piece behind the fascia flex ™
eaves lining board
board. Ensure planks are secured to the backing piece. Hold backing
piece firmly while driving the fasteners. Figure 22: PVC joint (Timber frame)

09
 metal rafter/ truss at
600mm max. centres plank™ fascia board
backing piece

in.
mm
12m

n
mi
mm fastener
50

3mm gap sealed with

flexible/ paintable sealant

butt joint (moderate contact)

timber beading as required

flex™eaves lining board

Figure 23: Butt joint & sealant (Metal rafter/ truss)

6 Decorative Fencing

6.1 General
plank™ can be incorporated in the construction of conventional gap to architect
approval
masonry, timber or steel framed fencing for medium to high-end
terrace houses as well as semi-D or bungalows.
6.2 Framing Requirement
Framing durability must satisfy the minimum requirement of the 30mm min.
intended use. It is recommended to use exterior grade (treated
timber) or steel hollow section to form the support. Steel hollow Horizontal Section
section must be suitably coated to resist external weather.
6.3 Installation plank™fencing applied vertically
plank™ can be installed vertically or horizontally. In any case,
support must be provided at 400mm centres maximum. Install
gap to architect 100mm max
fasteners approximately 30mm from edge and 50mm from corner of approval overhang
plank. Fix at least 2 fasteners at each support.
plank™ ends must not overhang (cantilever) more than 100mm
from the support.
610mm max.

The following fasteners are suitable if it is desired to have screw heads 30mm min.
from edge
exposed:-
• Timber Support: Use No.10 x 30mm Hexagon head, Type 17 point
screws masonry wall
• Steel support: Use No.10 x 25mm Hexagon head, self-drilling
point screws
100mm max timber/
Refer to screw manufacturer's instruction on the minimum screw overhang steel frame
penetration to framing member:
Front Elevation

Figure 24: Vertical fencing

10
 timber/ steel frame at plank™fencing applied horizontally
400mm max.centre timber/ steel frame

610mm
30mm min.
max.
from edge

gap to architect
approval

Horizontal Section

Figure 25: Horizontal fencing masonry work

gap to architect approval

Front Elevation

7 Ceiling and Eaves Lining

7.1 General 7.2 Framing Requirement

plank™ 9mm with 2 sided V-edge profile in ‘Smooth’,
‘Woodgrain’ or ‘Timbergrain’ surface texture is always the preferred
choice as alternative to the wood plank as the ceiling lining which
provides the warmth and beauty of natural timber looking ceilings. It
is not only durable but environmental friendly comparing by using
traditional forest timbers.
Light gauge galvanized steel C-section with standard size 50mm x
35mm x 0.50mm BMT is used as the metal framing for ceiling hanger
and ceiling joist. plank™must be supported at 407mm maximum
centres, refer Figure 26. Ensure the ceiling joists are reasonably flat
and level prior the plank installation.

100
mm

Ceiling hanger at 900mm max c/c

(Light gauge galvanised steel c-channel
0.50mm base metal thickness)
Light gauge galvanised steel c-channel at
407mm max c/c
(0.50mm min base metal thickness) Light gauge
galvanised steel
U-channel (0.50mm
min base metal
thickness)

40
7m
m m
ma 0m
x. c 10
/c

75mm / 100mm (W) x

3660mm (L) x 9.0mm (T)
plank™V-edge
/c
x. c
ma
m
0m
90

Figure 26: Typical plank™ Ceiling Layout

11
7.3 Installation
Install plank™ 9mm across the ceiling joist in a staggered All fastener heads must be covered with jointing compound with
pattern. Fasten the plank onto ceiling joist by using the self-drilling 10% cement mixing ratio. Clean dust out of holes to ensure adhesion
self-embedding head wing tek screw ( fastener - Wing Tek 28mm C1 ) of joint compound.
with 407mm fasteners spacing as shown in Figure 27. The screws are
The plank™ is generally installed with butt jointing plank ends
fastened at the centre of the plank. For plank width joint area, the
with moderate contact as shown in Figure 28.
screws are fastened 12mm minimum from the plank edge, refer
Figure 27 Detail A. If the plank width edges fall at the off-stud
jointing, a light gauge steel nogging is placed on top of the edge
joints. Fasten the plank to the nogging accordingly.

75mm / 100mm (W) x

3660mm (L) x 9.0mm (T) Ceiling joist @ 407mm c/c
plank™V-edge
Staggered joint

12mm

407mm max. c/c

Figure 27: plank™ceiling installation

Butt joint with moderate contact

75mm / 100mm (W) x

3660mm (L) x 9.0mm (T)
plank™V-edge

Figure 28: Joint Detail

12
8 Decking / Flooring

8.1 General
plank™Decking, offering choices of Smooth and Timbergrain
textures and with light chamfer at length edges, is ideal for decking
and flooring applications. It is the best substitution to natural timber
decking for commercial and residential buildings and can be used for
interior and exterior applications. plank™ Decking can be applied
on the steel frame and direct to the floor slab. For thickness 12mm, it
is recommended to be laid directly to the floor slab.
8.2 Framing Requirement
The steel framing system is generally fabricated using light gauge
galvanized steel C-section with BMT 0.75mm to 1.6mm BMT or mild
steel hollow section with maximum BMT 1.6mm. It is the
responsibility of structural engineer to ensure the framing system in
which plank™ decking will be laid on will perform under the
design load.
The decking or flooring joist or frame spacing shall be determined by
loading requirements and comply with local building regulations. In
all cases, the joist spacing must not exceed 610mm centres. Refer
table below for the load selection table for recommended joist
spacing based on plank thickness.

Table: Plank Thickness vs Load Selection

Joist Spacing @ 305mm c/c Joist Spacing @ 407mm c/c Joist Spacing @ 610mm c/c
plank™
Thickness
UDL CL UDL CL UDL CL
19.2 kN/m2 4.2 kN 9.0 kN/m2 2.3 kN 2.5 kN/m2 1.0 kN
16mm
1957 kg/m2 428 kg 917 kg/m2 234 kg 255kg/m2 102 kg
43.3 kN/m 2
9.5 kN 20.5 kN/m 2
5.3 kN 5.9 kN/m2 2.3 kN
25mm
4414 kg/m2 968 kg 2090 kg/m2 540 kg 601 kg/m2 234 kg

Note: How to use table above:

• UDL = Uniformity Distributed Load; CL = Concentrated Load Step 1: Determine the actual application of the deck system (i.e. House, Institutional
• Bending strength for plank™16mm & 25mm is 16 N/mm2 Buildings, Offices etc)
• Modulus of Elasticity for plank™16mm is 6000 N/mm2 and 25mm is Step 2: Refer to Malaysia Uniform Building By-Law (UBBL) for the minimum UDL and CL
4000 N/mm2 for the intended application.
• Minimum factor of safety is 3 has been factored in Step 3: Determine the type of finishing material to be applied on the decking, the
• Allowable maximum deflection is limited to L/250 of joist spacing weight of this material must be added to the UDL value obtained in Step 2.
• Concentrated load is applied over 300mm x 300mm area Step 4: Select the suitable joist spacing that meets the minimum UDL (plus weight of
finishing materials) & CL stated in Step 2.
Metal framing system is not required for plank™decking direct installation to
concrete slab.

8.3 Installation
8.3.1 On Metal Framing
Ensure the framing system is designed and constructed in
accordance with applicable building standards and acceptable
building practices. Floor joists must be true and level. Lay
decking in staggered position across the floor joist, refer Figure 29.
Use self-embedding head self-drilling wing tek screw to fasten the
board to the frame according to Figure 30. Other fasteners can be
used but might require pre-drilling. The fastener points to be
covered with jointing compound with 10% cement mixing ratio or
can be left un-covered which corrosion resistance at least Class 3
plank™
fasteners are required.

150mm x 3660mm x 25mm thick

Self embedding head
plank™V-edge Self drilling screws
installed in staggered position

25mm

12mm

Mild steel hollow section

or light gauge galvanised
steel c-section
Staggered joint

305mm to 610mm 25mm

based on designed load

Figure 29: Typical Layout for plank™ decking onto Steel Frame Figure 30: Fastener Fixing

13
Sheets are normally butt joint at along edges and butt joint or
expressed joint with 3 to 4mm gap at the cross edges, refer Figure 31
& 32 below. For wet area application, please ensure all the surfaces (6
sides) of plank are coated with water proofing sealer and coatings.

75mm / 100mm (W) x

Self embedding head
3660mm (L) x 9.0mm (T)
Self drilling screws
plank ™
V-edge
25mm

Butt joint with moderate

Mild steel hollow section

or light gauge galvanised
steel c-section, spacing
c/c to engineer details

Figure 31: Joint Detail at along edges

75mm / 100mm (W) x 75mm / 100mm (W) x

3660mm (L) x 9.0mm (T) 3660mm (L) x 9.0mm (T)
3 to 4mm wide gap
plank™V-edge plank™V-edge
12mm 12mm 12mm 12mm

Self embedding head screw, Self embedding head

Self drilling screw Self drilling screws

Mild steel hollow section Mild steel hollow section

or light gauge galvanised or light gauge galvanised
steel c-section, spacing steel c-section, spacing
c/c to engineers detail c/c to engineers detail

Figure 32: Butt Joint and Express Joint at cross edges (width joint)

8.3.2 Direct to Concrete Slab

plank™decking must be pre-sealed with water repellent sealer
for all 6 surfaces prior installation. Tile or chemical adhesive is used for
bonding the plank™ sheet to the concrete slab. A rough finished
concrete slab surface is preferable to have good bonding with either
tile or chemical adhesive. Dust, loose particles and grease must be
removed from the concrete surface prior applying the adhesive.
Prepare the adhesive as per manufacturer’s recommendation. Refer
table below for the recommended tile adhesive and chemical
adhesive for plank™ decking.

Table: Recommended Tile and Chemical Adhesives for plank™decking

Brand Commercial Product Name Description

Weber Belcem Superflex 21 Single Part Semi-Flexible Tile Adhesive

Mapei Keraflex Maxi Flexible S1 Adhesive Adhesive Single Part Semi-Flexible Tile Adhesive
SIKA SikaBond-52 Parquet Solvent-free Elastic Chemical Adhesive

14
For application using tile adhesive, spread the tile adhesive to the
plank™ bottom surface at bed thickness of around 10 mm. A
triangular or rectangular notch trowel can be used to do the job.
Promptly fix plank™ onto concrete slab and followed by slight
twisting action to ensure good contact before the skin-over of tile
adhesive occur. Re-trowel the adhesive bed if the adhesive bed is no
longer tacky or sticky. Remove surplus adhesive before it hardens and
allow the adhesive to set and cure for 24 hours. It is recommended to
install the plank™ in staggered layout. It is key to allocate 3-4mm
gap at along (length) and cross (width) joints for tile adhesive
application.
For application using chemical adhesive, insert the sausage chemical
adhesive into the adhesive gun, extrude a triangular shaped bead of
adhesive approximately 10 mm high and 8 mm wide at maximum
305 mm c/c onto the concrete slab. Refer to Figure 33 for chemical
adhesive distance and plank orientation. Always refer to
manufacturer’s recommendation for the skinning time or the laying
time of the chemical adhesive. The plank™ is pressed firmly onto
the chemical adhesive. A rubber hammer can be used to knock on
plank edges to ensure it is laid tightly to the slab. Allocate 3-4mm gap
at width joint area and butt joint for along length area, refer Figure 34.

plank™
Decking installed in
staggered position

/c
x. c
ma
m
5m
30

Chemical adhesive
at 305mm max. c/c

Figure 33: Chemical Adhesive Span Distance and Plank Orientation

3-4mm wide gap

plank™ Decking plank™
Decking
Butt Joint

Chemical adhesive at
Chemical adhesive at 305mm max. c/c
305mm max. c/c

Figure 34: Joint Details (Along and Cross/Width Joints)

15
9 Finishes Recommendations
Under normal circumstances plank™ must be coated within
3 months after installation. For best result, decorate plank™ with
2 coats of 100% quality acrylic paint. For general-purpose
applications, there is no requirement for primers or sealers. Ensure
planks are dry prior to painting. For decorative fencing application,
plank must be coated on both surfaces and all edges. All plank
exposed surfaces and edges must be painted.
For translucent varnish colour appearance, Nippon Fibercote is
recommended as it will provide or highlight the natural grain of the
product.
10.1 Cutting
Cutting must be carried out in a well-ventilated area using one of the
following methods:-
• Score and Snap - Score the plank face with 'score and snap'. Repeat
until depth reaches 1/3 of plank thickness. Snap plank upward to
achieve clean break. Trim cut edge with rasp if necessary.
Figure 26: Score and Snap Method (left), Machine Cut (right)
• Hand Saw
The use of fine-toothed hand saw coupled with quick jabbing
action will normally'produces best result.
• Power Cutting Tool
When large amount of plank cutting is involved, use power cutting
16
It is difficult to cover the fastener with jointing compound with
translucent varnish paint and thus a layer of white primer or sealer is
recommended to paint as first layer prior the translucent varnish
paint.
For certain applications, it will be looked good by exposing the
fastener head without any jointing compound.
In all cases, coating manufacturer's recommendations must be
strictly adhered to.
10 Working Instructions
tool equipped with carbide-tipped or diamondtipped circular saw.
10.2 Drilling
Small holes can be formed using high-speed (HSS) drill bits. Larger
circular holes can be created by drilling a series of small holes around
the perimeter of the proposed hole, and gently tapping out the
waste piece. Smoothen the rough drilled edge with rasp if necessary.
plank™
10.3 Handling & Storage
must be stacked on flat ground and supported wfth level
bearers prior to installation. Ensure all timber bearers of a stacked
plank are aligned with other stacks. Improper plank stacking may
result in permanent plank deformation that causes unsightly
appearance
plank™ such as waviness.
must always be kept dry, preferably stored under a protected
shade. When stored outdoors, it must be protected from water
ingress and weather by covering with tarpaulin sheet. Allow wet
plank to dry to equilibrium under a natural ventilated condition prior
to installation. plank™
To minimize breakages. must be carried with up-right.
 50
Years
50 Years Durability

WARRANTY
Hume Cemboard Industries Sdn Bhd (“the Company”) warrants that it will at all times ensure that the products referred to herein (“the Products”) shall be supplied by it to the purchaser free of any
manufacturing defects and defective materials used in their manufacture.

In the event and if contrary to this assertion the Products prove to be defective, whether as a result of manufacturing defects or arising from the Company’s use of defective materials, the Company will
supply replacement Products. The Company shall, however, have the option and may choose to reimburse the purchaser the purchase price of the Products instead. The Company shall not be liable for any
economic or consequential losses arising from any use of defective Products.

This warranty shall be void unless the purchaser has, in its handling and installation of the Products, complied with the recommendations contained in this brochure and other good building practices
expected of a reasonable purchaser.

ADVISORY NOTE
Successful installations of Hume Cemboard Industries Sdn Bhd’s Products depend on a large number of factors that are outside of the scope of this brochure. Particular design, detail, construction
requirements and workmanship are beyond the control of the Company. As such, Hume Cemboard Industries Sdn Bhd’s warranty does not extend to non-usability of Products or damage to Products arising
from poor or defective designs or systems or poor quality of workmanship in the installation of Products.

For more information, please contact us at:

No. 12 Jalan Tandang, 46050 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia.

Malaysia Sales Tel: + 603 7625 9999 Fax: +603 7625 7822 Email: sales@humecemboard.com.my
Oversea Sales Tel: + 603 7625 3880 Fax: +603 7625 3990 Email: exportHCI@humecemboard.com.my
www.primafibrecement.com
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