Replacing your home’s siding is a huge decision. New siding is a significant financial commitment but also impacts your home’s durability, appearance, and resale value. It is essential to make the right decision for your budget and your property!
If you are considering James Hardie® fiber cement siding for your replacement—you are making a great decision! However, we understand you may still have some lingering questions you would like answered before committing to North America’s #1 siding brand.
James Hardie Siding Q&A with Beissel Window & Siding
We are part of the James Hardie Contractor Alliance, so we know a thing or two about this popular siding product! So, to help you make the best decision for your home, here are our answers to some of the most common questions homeowners have about James Hardie:
1. How long does Hardie Board siding last?
Hardie siding is one of the longest-lasting siding materials on the market. When properly installed and well maintained, it can last up to 50 years!
2. How much does Hardie siding cost?
Your contractor will give you a quote for your siding replacement that includes the cost of labor and materials. The total cost for your project can vary depending on your contractor’s experience level, location, the state of your old siding, and other factors.
However, Hardie siding is more affordable than brick and stucco. Overall, it is a cost-effective material that makes an excellent investment!
3. What is fiber cement siding made from?
Fiber cement siding consists of a blend of cement, sand, water, and cellulose fibers. This material is resistant to damage from pests, fire, weather, and wind.
4. Is Hardie siding low-maintenance?
Hardie siding is easy to maintain, especially compared to high-maintenance materials that require regular treatments and repairs, like wood.
Twice a year, rinse your fiber cement siding with a garden hose, gently scrub away any dirt or grime that has accumulated with a soft-bristled brush, and you are good to go!
5. How can I purchase Hardie siding for my replacement?
It is best to purchase your siding through an expert local contractor for a seamless installation process. Since we are a part of the James Hardie Contractor Alliance, we can secure you the best deals and warranties and ensure your siding replacement is completed with meticulous care for long-lasting performance.
6. What siding styles does James Hardie offer?
James Hardie has plenty of siding styles to match all types of architectural styles—from historic homes to contemporary dwellings.
Hardie siding comes in lap, vertical, or shingle styles to encompass a wide range of architectural designs, and in unique textures, like smooth or cedar, to create the perfect look and feel for your Twin Cities home.
7. Can James Hardie siding hold up in my climate?
If any siding can hold up in the Twin Cities climate—it is James Hardie!
Hardie siding is Engineered for Climate®, meaning it is made to withstand the snow, sleet, moisture, and humidity your home endures in Minneapolis and St. Paul. When you install HZ5, you will not need to worry about your siding shrinking, swelling, cracking, or developing mold.
8. Does Hardie siding fade?
Some siding materials fade as time passes—but not Hardie siding. You can choose if you would like to receive your boards pre-primed for paint or, more popularly, order boards with beautiful colors already applied in a factory-controlled setting.
ColorPlus® Technology, the second option, allows you to enjoy gorgeous, vibrant shades that last. You can choose from a wide selection of beautiful, baked-on shades, so you are sure to find the perfect match for your home.
9. How does Hardie siding’s cost compare to other siding materials?
Hardie siding is not as expensive as brick and stucco, and it is similar to the price of hardboard or composite siding.
Fiber cement siding has historically been more expensive than vinyl siding. However, in recent years, these two materials have become comparable in price—making it easier to choose long-lasting Hardie siding, even if you are on a budget.
10. Is Hardie siding fire-resistant?
As we mentioned earlier, Hardie siding is fire-resistant and noncombustible due to its durable makeup. This means that even if your Hardie siding is exposed to a flame, it will not add fuel to the fire, so you can rest assured that your home is safe and protected.
Many companies offer insurance discounts for homes covered with James Hardie siding, so reach out to your provider to see if you can save a few bucks every month!
11. Does Hardie Board siding come with a warranty?
James Hardie offers one of the best warranties in the construction industry—a 30-year, non-prorated, transferable warranty. ColorPlus Technology also comes with a 15-year limited warranty that covers paint and labor, protecting your boards against cracking, peeling, and chipping.
Although it is unlikely anything will go wrong with your fiber cement siding, even if something happens, you can have peace of mind this top-notch warranty will cover your siding repairs or replacement.
12. What type of trim can you use with Hardie siding?
You can use fiber cement, natural wood, engineered wood, vinyl, or corrosion-resistant aluminum trim with your Hardie siding. However, we recommend using HardieTrim®—James Hardie’s durable, beautiful trim—with your new fiber cement siding.
Beautify and Fortify Your Minnesota Home’s Exterior with James Hardie Siding Installation
If you like what you are reading about Hardie siding, you are in good company! James Hardie siding is currently installed on over eight million homes in North America—and that number continues to grow daily.
If you have more questions about Hardie siding, or if you are ready to get a quote for your siding replacement, contact our professional team at Beissel Window & Siding.
