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