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Cladding manufacturer James Hardie has defended its monolithic wallboard product against a developer's criticism, saying the problem is not with the goods but how they are used.
North Shore developer Rick Martin spoke out against monolithic cladding systems, saying he had banned the product from his sites.
Asked in a previous edition of the Herald's Leak Report what he had learned after the full scale of the leaky building crisis had been exposed, Mr Martin criticised the product, which he blamed as one of the main reasons for building failures.
Cameron Hamilton, head of communications at James Hardie in Sydney, said the firm's cladding was fine but builders were at fault for installing it incorrectly.
"There is overwhelming evidence of poor workmanship and lack of moisture management detailing, such as correct flashings, permitting significant moisture ingress, with consequent damage occurring.
"These areas are clearly outside the control and responsibility of James Hardie."
Mr Hamilton said the Government endorsed his firm's product.