James Hardie Board Siding Pros and Cons
You have a lot of options to choose from for siding material. Each material has certain unique qualities that make it a good fit (or a not-so-good fit) for various homeowners. For this reason, you should do your research to find the best siding for your needs. If you need siding installation in Minnesota, call Elite Remodeling Services at (952) 646-2480.
What is Hardie Board Siding
James Hardie Siding, also called HardiePlank, was named after its creator James Hardie. Hardie board fiber cement siding comes in horizontal strips. It is part wood and part mineral. Hardie board is a popular option for many homeowners whose homes need to withstand tough weather.
Pros of Hardie Board Siding
- Aesthetic value
Hardie board’s distinctive feature is that it closely resembles wood grain. The embossed texturing of the fiber cement makes it look rich and uniform. However, it is clearly different from wood when you examine it closely. This material can also be easily painted to match any color scheme.
- Longevity
The material cannot rot, and (unlike traditional wood) it is resistant to insects. For this reason and others, it can last you a long time. Consider this siding if you plan to be in your home for over 50 years.
- Weather resistance
This siding is fire resistant, moisture resistant, and waterproof. It can handle even the toughest Minnesota weather, from summer to winter. Unlike some siding materials, fiber-cement will not buckle in extreme heat.
- Low maintenance
You may have to clean your siding once or twice a year to keep it looking pristine. This process simply involves running hose water along the boards. Too much pressure or aggressive scrubbing can damage the siding.
Cons of Hard Board Siding
The main drawback of Hardie board siding is that installation can be challenging. This material is relatively heavy, weighing about 300 pounds per 100 square feet.
Because of its weight, it can require:
- Attention to detail from contractors
- More time to install than other materials
- A large labor force
For these reasons, Hardie board siding can be expensive to install. If you have this siding and it requires repair, you will want to hire a professional contractor. Contractors are trained to work with Hardie board, so they can fix your siding without voiding your warranty.
How much does Hardie Board siding cost
The cost of this siding depends on several factors, such as:
- Supply and demand
- The size of your home
- The length of time it will take to install
- If you require painting
In general, Hardie board costs three times more than vinyl siding. However, it also lasts much longer. Since it is durable and long-lasting, it will likely be well worth the expense in the long run. Additionally, Hardie board siding can increase the value of your home if you ever decide to sell it.
At the end of the day, you want a home that you love coming back to. Call Elite Remodeling Services today at (952) 646-2480. We’ll help you find and install the perfect material.
