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James Hardie Fiber Cement Siding FAQs

The word is getting out among homeowners here in the Minneapolis area that fiber cement siding and trim products from The James Hardie Company are some of the best on the market for Minnesota homes. If you’re considering having Hardie siding installed on your home, you probably have some questions. Below are our responses to the most common inquiries we get.

James Hardie Fiber Cement Siding

Q: How does Hardie siding compare in terms of cost to other siding options?

A: Based on initial installation costs, Hardie siding is less expensive than fiberglass or steel siding and also less costly than brick or stucco. But Hardie siding products cost more than vinyl or wood. Labor costs are slightly higher than for other siding products because Hardie siding requires specialized skills and equipment to install properly. However, you also need to factor in cost savings such as discounts in homeowner insurance costs that many insurance companies offer since it is fire-restant. Also because of its long expected life, Hardie siding doesn’t need to be replaced as frequently as vinyl, so in the long run it can end up actually being more economical. It also doesn’t need the frequent upkeep that genuine wood siding does, making it more economical from a maintenance standpoint.

Q: Is Hardie fiber cement siding considered a ‘green’ product?

A: Yes, it’s one of the most eco-friendly siding products on the market, and for a number of reasons. First of all, it is made mainly from cellulose fibers mixed with cement and sand, all sustainable resources. Secondly, because it’s long-lasting and durable, it doesn’t need to be replaced very often. Building materials that are long-lasting get extra points for being environmentally friendly by virtue of reducing the need to manufacture more.

Q: How long can I expect Hardie siding to last?

A: Hardie fiber cement siding products come with a 30-year transferrable warranty; for most people, that means their siding will outlive them.

Q: Does fiber cement siding from The James Hardie Company stand up well to hail and other severe weather?

A: Since we live in a hailstorm-prone area, this is a question anyone in the market for new siding should be asking their siding company about whatever product they are considering. The answer is that Hardie fiber cement siding provides excellent protection against hail damage. In fact, builders in areas such as Montana that get much worse hail than Minnesota does highly recommend Hardie siding. This siding also withstands damage from high winds as well, up to 150 mph. And even the worst Minnesota tornadoes don’t approach that velocity.

Q: Can I combine Hardie siding with other exterior materials?

A: Yes. We have done a number of projects where we’ve used Hardie fiber cement siding in a couple of designs with accent areas in faux stone, like the Versetta Stone material we also install. It makes a beautiful combination. Hardie does make fiber cement trim, but your siding can also be trimmed out with real or engineered wood, vinyl, or coated aluminum.

If you’ve got other questions about fiber cement siding from James Hardie, we’d love to discuss them with you. We are a Preferred Contractor for James Hardie fiber cement siding installation here in the Minneapolis area.

“James Hardie provides a 30 year non-prorated Limited Warranty on their HZ5 products. This warranty covers replacement of the Hardie product AND the labor required to replace it. This is the best warranty in the business!” “James Hardie provides a 15 year warranty on products treated with their ColorPlus technology. For more detailed warranty information visit the Hardie website.