HARDIE BOARD SIDING

VANCOUVER’S LEADING HARDIE BOARD RESIDENTIAL CONTRACTOR

The Ultimate Guide to Hardie Board Siding: Everything You Need to Know

Introduction

Silverline Exterior is an award-winning vancouver siding contractor. Hardie board is one of the most popular siding material in the market today. In this guide, we will cover everything homeowner needs to consider when choosing Hardie Board siding.

Brief overview of Hardie Board siding

Hardie Board siding, also known as fiber cement siding, is a popular and durable choice for homeowners seeking an attractive, low-maintenance exterior for their homes. Manufactured by James Hardie, this versatile siding material can mimic the appearance of traditional wood siding, stucco, and even brick while offering superior protection against weather-related damage, insect infestation, and fire. Hardie Board siding is designed to withstand the toughest climates, making it an ideal choice for homeowners in the Vancouver area. Learn more about the benefits of Hardie Board siding and the installation process by exploring our resources and Hardie Board color schemes.

Importance of choosing the right siding for your home

Your home’s siding plays a crucial role in protecting the structure from the elements, insulating the interior, and enhancing the overall curb appeal. Selecting the right siding material and style is essential for ensuring your home remains well-maintained, energy-efficient, and visually appealing. In this section, we will discuss the importance of choosing the right siding for your home and the factors you should consider when making your decision.

Table of Content

What Is Hardie Board Siding?

Advantages Of Hardie Board Siding

Choosing The Right Hardie Board Siding For Your Home

Working With A Reputable Contractor

Maintenance And Caring For Your Hardie Board Siding

Warranty Information

Conclusion

Free Estimate

1 + 2 = ?

What is Hardie Board Siding?

Composition and manufacturing process

Fiber cement boards, including Hardie board, are made using a specific manufacturing process. The process involves mixing cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, along with water and other additives, to create a slurry. The slurry is then poured onto a conveyor belt and passed through a forming machine, which compresses the mixture into the desired thickness and shape.

After the fiber cement mixture is formed into the appropriate shape, it is then cured in a high-temperature kiln to strengthen the material and remove any excess moisture. The curing process can take several hours, depending on the size and thickness of the fiber cement board.

Once the curing process is complete, the fiber cement board is trimmed to the desired size and shape using special cutting tools. The boards may also be sanded or painted at this stage, depending on the manufacturer’s specifications.

The final product is a durable and low-maintenance building material that is resistant to damage from fire, moisture, and insects. Fiber cement boards are known for their strength, durability, and versatility, making them an excellent choice for a wide range of building applications.

History of Fiber Cement Siding

The history of fiber cement siding can be traced back to the early 1900s, when Austrian engineer Ludwig Hatschek developed a process for producing a type of fiber cement called Eternit. This material was made from a mixture of cement, asbestos fibers, and water, and it quickly gained popularity as a durable and fire-resistant building material.

However, concerns about the health hazards of asbestos led to a decline in the use of Eternit in the 1980s. This prompted companies to develop new types of fiber cement that did not contain asbestos.

In the 1980s, Australian entrepreneur James Hardie developed a new type of fiber cement siding that was made from a mixture of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. This new material was stronger and more durable than Eternit, and it quickly gained popularity as a building material in Australia and the United States.

Today, fiber cement siding is a popular choice for homeowners and builders who want a durable and low-maintenance product that can withstand harsh weather conditions. It comes in a variety of colors and finishes, and it can be painted to match any home’s exterior. James Hardie Industries, the company behind Hardie Board siding,  has since become a global leader in siding solutions.

Advantages of Hardie Board Siding

Hardie Board siding boasts numerous benefits that make it a top choice for homeowners. Some of these advantages include:

Durability

Made from a blend of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, Hardie Board siding is incredibly strong and resistant to weather-related damage, such as warping, cracking, and rotting. This material can withstand harsh climates, making it an ideal choice for homeowners in areas prone to heavy rainfall, high winds, and fluctuating temperatures.

Fire Resistance

Hardie Board siding is non-combustible, providing an added layer of protection against fire hazards. This fire-resistant quality can potentially lower your home insurance premiums and provide peace of mind for homeowners.

Pest Resistance

Unlike wood siding, Hardie Board siding is not susceptible to damage from termites, carpenter ants, or other wood-destroying insects. This resistance to pests can help protect your home’s structural integrity and save you money on pest control services.

Low Maintenance

Hardie Board siding requires minimal upkeep compared to other siding materials. With its baked-on ColorPlus Technology finish, the siding resists fading and chipping, ensuring your home looks fresh and vibrant for years to come. Occasional cleaning with a garden hose and mild detergent is typically all that’s needed to maintain its appearance.

Choosing the Right Hardie Board Siding for Your Home

Different product lines and styles

Hardie board offers a variety of product lines and styles to fit the unique needs and aesthetic preferences of homeowners and builders. Here are some of the most popular product lines and styles of Hardie board:

  1. HardiePlank® Lap Siding – This is the most popular and recognizable style of Hardie board, also commonly called Hardie board lap siding. It features long, horizontal planks that overlap each other, creating a traditional and timeless look.

  2. HardieShingle® Siding – This style of Hardie board mimics the look of cedar shingles. It is available in various textures, including staggered edge, straight edge, and half-round.

  3. HardiePanel® Vertical Siding – This style of Hardie board features vertical panels that create a sleek and modern look. It can be used alone or in combination with other Hardie board styles.

  4. HardieTrim® Boards – HardieTrim® boards are used to add decorative accents to homes and buildings. They come in a variety of styles, including batten, crown, and fascia.

  5. HardieSoffit® Panels – HardieSoffit® panels are used to cover the underside of roof overhangs and eaves. They come in vented and non-vented styles and can be painted to match the rest of the home’s exterior.

Considering local climate and regional factors

When selecting Hardie Board siding, it’s essential to consider your local climate and other regional factors. James Hardie has developed a unique HardieZone System to help you choose the best siding for your area’s specific needs.

Color and texture options

Hardie Board siding comes in a wide range of colors and textures, allowing you to create a unique and personalized look for your home. From smooth finishes to authentic wood grain textures, there’s something for every taste. Explore James Hardie’s Dream Collection of colors and learn about Hardie Board color schemes.

Hardie Board and Batten in Arctic White

Hardie Board and Batten in Arctic White

Hardie Straight Edge Shingle in Boothbay Blue

Hardie Shingle Boothbay Blue Installed at Chilko Residence

Hardie 8-1/4 Plank Cedar Mill Iron Gray Finish

Hardie 8-1/4 Plank Cedar Mill Iron Gray Finish

Hardie Smooth Panel with Easytrim in Iron Gray

Hardie Smooth Panel with Easytrim in Iron Gray

ColorPlus® Technology

James Hardie’s Color Plus program offers pre-finished siding with curated color options giving homeowner the benefit of a superior paint finish, and save time and money painting their homes. They use baked-on bond and UV resistant paint achieving a consistent finish throughout, and back up the paint finish with a 15-year warranty. Check out the The Statement Collection Colors below:

Timber Bark

hardie board siding timber bark

Navajo Beige

hardie board siding navajo-beige

Khaki Brown

hardie board siding khaki brown

Night Gray

hardie board night gray chip

Gray Slate

hardie board siding gray slate chip

Monterey Taupe

hardie board siding monterey taupe

Iron Gray

hardie board siding iron gray

Evening Blue

hardie board siding evening blue

Boothbay Blue

boothbay blue

Aged Pewter

hardie board siding aged pewter chip

Arctic White

hardie board siding arctic white

Pearl Grey

hardie board siding harpearl grey chip

Working with a reputable contractor

Choosing a reliable contractor to install your Hardie Board siding is crucial for ensuring a successful project. Look for a contractor with experience in installing hardie board siding and a strong reputation in your community. Here are some tips for choosing a decent siding contractor.

SilverLine Exteriors is a HPCN certified contractor, ensuring that our team has the necessary training and expertise to properly install James Hardie products. Our installation process includes:

  1. Consultation: Our team will meet with you to discuss your siding needs, answer any questions you may have, and provide a detailed estimate for your project.
  2. Preparation: Before installation, we’ll remove the existing siding, repair any damaged sheathing, and install a weather-resistant barrier to protect your home from moisture infiltration.
  3. Installation: Our skilled technicians will meticulously install the Hardie Board siding, ensuring proper alignment and adherence to James Hardie’s installation guidelines. This attention to detail ensures your siding performs at its best and lasts for years to come.
  4. Finishing Touches: We’ll complete the installation by adding trim, soffits, and other finishing elements to give your home a polished, cohesive look.
  5. Clean-up and Inspection: Once the installation is complete, our team will clean up the work area and conduct a thorough inspection to ensure your satisfaction with the finished product.

Written Contracts Guaranteed Workmanship

Maintenance and Caring for Your Hardie Board Siding

Maintaining and caring for your Hardie board siding is relatively easy and can help prolong its lifespan and appearance. Many customers ask how often should I clean Hardie board siding? As a general guideline, cleaning Hardie board siding once or twice a year is typically sufficient for most situations. Here are some tips for maintaining and caring for your Hardie board siding:

  1. Clean Regularly – Regular cleaning of your Hardie board siding can help prevent dirt and debris from building up and causing damage. Use a soft-bristled brush or a power washer on a low setting to clean the siding. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or materials that could scratch or damage the surface.
  2. Inspect Annually – Inspect your Hardie board siding annually for any signs of damage, including cracks, chips, or discoloration. Any damaged boards should be replaced immediately to prevent further damage to the structure of the home.
  3. Maintain Gutters and Downspouts – Ensure that your gutters and downspouts are clean and functioning properly to prevent water from seeping behind the siding and causing damage.
  4. Trim Trees and Shrubs – Keep trees and shrubs trimmed back from the siding to prevent damage from branches or debris during storms or windy conditions.

Warranty Information

James Hardie offers a 30-year limited, non-prorated warranty on their siding products, providing homeowners with peace of mind. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the terms of the warranty. Learn more about non-prorated, prorated, and limited manufacturer warranties.

The warranty is transferable to subsequent owners of the property, providing added value to the home. However, it is important to note that the warranty does not cover damage caused by improper installation, accidents, or natural disasters.

In addition to the standard warranty, James Hardie offers an optional ColorPlus® Technology warranty, which covers the color of the siding for up to 15 years. This warranty ensures that the siding will maintain its color and resist fading or chalking for the duration of the warranty period.

To be eligible for the warranty, the siding must be installed according to James Hardie’s specifications and guidelines. This includes using the appropriate nails or screws, sealing joints with the recommended sealant, and following the manufacturer’s instructions for painting and maintenance.

Conclusion

Hardie Board siding is an excellent choice for homeowners looking for a durable, attractive, and low-maintenance exterior solution. With its exceptional resistance to weather-related damage, fire, and pests, Hardie Board siding is designed to protect your home while enhancing its curb appeal. SilverLine Exteriors is committed to providing expert installation and personalized service to ensure your siding project is a success. Contact us today for a free estimate and learn how Hardie Board siding can transform your home’s exterior.