Hardie Board is one of the most common siding products we install, known for its durability and long lifespan. But what is Hardie Board, and how does it compare to other materials on the market?
This post breaks down the facts: what it’s made of, how it performs in different climates, and the pros and cons that come with it. With a clear picture of the material, you can decide if Hardie Board is the right fit for your home.
What is Hardie Board Siding Made Of?
Hardie Board is a fiber cement siding made from a fiberglass mesh and concrete mix. Once it’s cured, the material is shaped into siding boards. Because it’s cement-based, it’s very durable.
There are several styles available:
- Horizontal lap siding (6-inch, 7-inch, or wider boards)
- Vertical panels in 4×8, 4×9, or 4×10 sheets
- Board and batten
- Smooth finish for a stucco-style look
- Wood grain texture for a traditional appearance
You can choose primed-only boards and paint them later, or go with pre-painted siding from the factory. The factory finish comes with a 15-year warranty.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Hardie Board?
Benefits of Hardie Board Siding
Hardie Board offers long-term value thanks to its strong build and design options. Here are the top reasons our customers choose it:
- High durability: The concrete base makes it strong against damage. It doesn’t sag, crack, or wear out like wood or vinyl.
- Hail resistance: This material stands up to harsh storms and extreme weather.
- Color flexibility: You can repaint it if you want to change the look years later. Vinyl siding does not allow that.
- Variety of styles: From smooth to textured finishes, it works well with many home styles.
Pro Tip: If you want siding that looks sharp and gives you control over future color changes, Hardie Board is a smart pick.
Downsides of Hardie Board
Even though it’s strong, there are a couple of things to keep in mind:
- It needs paint: If you go with primed-only boards, you’ll likely need to repaint in 5 to 6 years. Factory-painted options last around 15 years before repainting is needed.
- Higher cost: The material is harder to work with, so it costs more to install than standard vinyl siding.
Does Hardie Board Last a Long Time?
Yes. Hardy Board is designed to last 30 years or more. The factory paint lasts for about 15 years on the basis of weather and maintenance.
Once the paint wears down, you can repaint it. This keeps the home looking fresh without replacing the siding.
Key Takeaway: Hardie Board is a long-term solution. Just plan for repainting every 15 years to maintain its appearance.
Need expert help with Hardie Board? Contact Thermal King for a free consultation. We’ll help you compare styles, colors, and pricing.
Can I Change the Color of Hardie Board Later?
Yes, it is one of its best characteristics. If you want to update the style of your home below the road, you can repaint the siding.
In our experience, this is one of the biggest reasons people choose fiber cement. For example, one couple chose Hardie Board because they wanted the freedom to change to modern colors every few years. Vinyl wouldn’t allow that.
Hardie Board or Vinyl Siding?
If you want low maintenance and never want to repaint, premium vinyl may work better. But if you want flexibility with color and a tougher siding, Hardie Board is the better option.
Vinyl siding is usually less expensive up front and doesn’t need painting. But it can’t be repainted or updated once installed. Hardie Board lets you keep your home looking modern by changing colors over time. It also holds up better against hail and weather damage.
Why We Recommend Hardie Board
We’ve lived in homes with both Hardie Board and vinyl siding. Both did the job, but Hardie Board stood out when it came to style and durability.
It gave us the flexibility to update our home’s look without replacing the siding. From a design point of view, it offers more control.
In Summary
Hardy board is a hard, attractive siding made of cement and fiberglass. It opposes the weather, adds an appeal, and can be repainted as a change of style. It spends more and requires paint over time, but for many of our customers, the benefits are worth it.
Want a siding that’s strong, flexible, and stylish? Contact Thermal King today for a free quote on Hardie Board installation.
