I'm getting my siding figured out for my first SIP build, starting in September in SE Iowa. 

I'd like to use HardiPanel, then rip HardiPlank to 2" and nailed on a 12" vertical layout to give a board and batten look.  Any thoughts?

I am a little concerned about nailing into OSB only, but figure every 4' I can hit the spline for at least 1" of "wood" nailer.

Thanks,
Ben

Ben;

We use hardi siding over our steel sips all the time , besides the fasteners we use construction adhesive to ensure positive attachment.

As for the battens, you may eat up saw blades with all that ripping and may be difficult to keep the cut edges clean looking.
You may want to consider just buying the battens from hardi

Chris,

Thanks for responding to this post too. 

Do you consider your steel skin to be the secondary drainage plane behind your siding?  Since I'm planning on using felt behind the siding I won't be able to use adhesive as a fastener. 

I've had good luck running the planks through a table saw equipped with a hardi siding blade.  The edges stay surprisingly crisp and will look factory after painted.  If I'd have to rip all those with a circular saw.... wow, I'd be going the lap siding route for sure.

Ben

Ben;

Yes the steel skins are the drainage plane and they qualify in Florida for the secondary water barrier on roof panels

Hi Ben,

I installed ship-lap log siding over my sips pannels. They look great and I have had no problems with loose boards.

I used house wrap instead of felt. Also used 3 1/4" galvanized"ring shank" nails to attach. Insured that I nailed to each 2x6 splines and also nailed into just OSB every 16" to 24".

Did the same in 3 rooms inside (no house wrap inside). If you use ringshank nails you should have no problems. Galvanized nails outside prevent rust lines .

Any questions, please feel free to contact me @ [email protected] and I'll give you my phone #.

Lee

We always spec screws for this application.

Is the same process used to attach Hardie Plank to steel sided SIPS?

yes

Bill,

Would you mind letting me know where you get your screws?  I imagine they need to have a pretty thin head with a self tapping thread.

thanks,
Ben

screws available thru www.SipDepot.com

www.swansecure.com stainless steel !