What Is Hardie Board Siding? Pros, Cons, and More
If you’re “board” with traditional siding, this option may be your best bet
Hardie board siding is made of fiber cement, which is a mixture of sand, cellulose fibers, and cement.
Pros of Hardie board siding include its durability, low maintenance, customization, and eco-friendliness.
Cons of Hardie board are its high upfront cost, the fact that it requires professional installation, may require repainting, and takes longer to install.
Hardie board siding costs range from $5,000 to $37,500.
Hardie board siding is a home exterior option that can withstand harsh weather, from torrential downpours to hail, sleet, and snow. However, it comes at a higher cost due to its long lifespan and more durable material. Let’s dig into Hardie board siding’s pros and cons to help you decide if it’s the right siding for your home.
What Is Hardie Board Siding?
Hardie board siding is a durable product made from the brand James Hardie. It consists of a mixture of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers which help it protect your home from pests, moisture, and harsh weather conditions. Hardie Board siding can last anywhere from 30 to 50 years, depending on how well it’s maintained.
| Hardie Board Siding Pros | Hardie Board Siding Cons |
|---|---|
| Durable | High upfront cost |
| Customizable | Requires professional installation |
| Sustainable | May require repainting |
| Low maintenance | Longer installation process |
Pros of Hardie Board Siding
An alternative to wood or vinyl siding, Hardie board siding is a highly customizable material that can withstand even the strongest of storms. Whether you live in a region that is exposed to harsh conditions or prone to pests, Hardie boards can withstand a multitude of variables thanks to its durability. Although durability is its top benefit, it has several others that make it an excellent siding option for your home.
1. Durable
Wind or snow or rain or hail is not likely to damage Hardie board siding, since it’s resistant to cracking, warping, or rotting. Because it is moisture-resistant, it can sustain harsh conditions for years without being compromised.
2. Customizable
This type of siding comes in a variety of colors, styles, textures, and thickness, making it an optimal choice for a wide range of aesthetics. Want a more rustic look? You can choose a wood-grain Hardie board style, or if modern is your preference, you can opt for vertical panels instead of shingles or lap siding.
3. Sustainable
Made from raw materials like cement, cellulose, and sand, Hardie board siding depletes less resources in its creation as opposed to other materials like vinyl. Plus, it provides better insulation than metal and vinyl, so it’s more energy efficient. This can help you use less heating and air conditioning and lower your carbon footprint.
4. Low Maintenance
Because of its high durability, this specific type of siding doesn’t need regular maintenance like other materials. Since it won’t rot or crack, you won’t need to replace boards or repaint as often as other siding like wood requires. The most you’ll need to do is have your Hardie board siding cleaned and painted every 10 to 15 years.
Cons of Hardie Board Siding
While the pros of Hardie board siding are plentiful, there are some cons to consider when choosing this material for your home. Read on for more cons to help you decide if Hardie board is the right fit for you.
1. High Upfront Cost
Depending on where you live and how much siding you need, the cost of Hardie board siding ranges from $5,000 to $37,500. Most Hardie boards cost about $5 to $15 per square foot, with more basic colors and styles falling on the lower end and more customized options falling on the higher end. If you’re on a tight budget or looking for a lower-cost siding option, Hardie board may not be the right material for you.
2. Requires Professional Installation
We don’t recommend DIY installation with this type of siding. This material is best installed by a licensed professional, so you’ll need to hire a local siding contractor. They’ll know the specific requirements of the siding and have the tools and equipment necessary to do the job right. Although paying for labor may cut into your bottom line, it’s best to go with the experts for this project.
3. May Require Repainting
As durable as Hardie board siding is, it still may need a paint touch-up every decade or so, especially if you live in a region that is tough on outdoor siding. Depending on how customizable the color of your siding is, you may have to have the paint color matched by a professional so you don’t have visible touch-ups.
4. Longer Installation Process
Since Hardie board is made from fiber cement, its material is heavier and denser than other siding options like vinyl or wood. This makes it more physically demanding to handle, carry, and cut during installation, which can slow down the process. Unlike lightweight vinyl, which can be easily snapped into place, Hardie boards require more precision and often specialized tools.
Alternatives to Hardie Board Siding
If you’re considering alternatives to Hardie board siding, you’ll likely run into one of the following siding options:
Yes, Hardie board siding needs to be sealed once it's put in place. A licensed professional will know when and what type of sealant to use on your Hardie board siding. Consult a local siding contractor to schedule an installation, and ensure they plan to apply sealant in the final steps of the project.
Siding installation experts will use screws to secure Hardie board siding in place, since they allow for the strongest hold with the strong cement material. This siding material is known for its durability, so siding contractors will use the strongest methods possible to keep it in place on your home’s exterior.
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