What should the installers do where the boards meet in the middle of the wall?
The installers will create a butt joint (the place that the ends of two boards come together) by using “factory–to–factory” finished ends. Behind the joint will be a flashing detail to keep water from getting behind the siding. Caulk or other sealants should not be used in butt joints. If a cut end is used, it should be painted using a James Hardie® touch-up kit.