North Americas leading siding material
What is James Hardie Siding?
Beatiful Siding That lasts!
James Hardie Fiber Cement Siding is a building material made of a mixture of cellulose fiber, Portland cement, sand, and other materials. It is designed to provide durability and low maintenance, while offering the look of traditional wood siding. It is resistant to fire, pests, and rot, and can withstand extreme weather conditions, making it a popular choice for residential and commercial construction.
James Hardie offers a range of styles and colors, allowing for a customized look for any building. The product is engineered to be energy efficient, reducing the amount of heat that is transferred into the building, helping to reduce energy costs. Overall, James Hardie Fiber Cement Siding is a versatile, long-lasting, and cost-effective option for siding.
Durability: James Hardie Fiber Cement Siding is known for its high resistance to weather, rot, and pests, making it a long-lasting option for homes.
Low Maintenance: The material is low-maintenance, meaning it doesn’t require frequent painting or staining.
Fire Resistance: James Hardie siding is made of fiber cement, which is non-combustible, providing added protection against fire damage.
Aesthetics: The siding comes in a variety of colors and styles to match the look of any home, making it a great choice for homeowners who want a stylish exterior.
Value: Number one return on investment for any exterior remodeling project rated by Remodeling magazine!
Compare Siding Options: James Hardie vs. Vinyl vs. LP SmartSide
|
Feature
|
James Hardie (Fiber Cement)
|
Vinyl Siding
|
LP SmartSide (Engineered Wood)
|
|---|---|---|---|
|
Durability
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Resistant to fire, moisture, rot, pests, hail, and extreme weather
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Susceptible to cracking in cold; melts near heat
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Better than vinyl; vulnerable to moisture if not maintained
|
|
Material Composition
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Cement, sand, cellulose fiber
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PVC plastic
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Wood strands with resin binder
|
|
Curb Appeal
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High-end look; woodgrain texture with deep shadow lines
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Plastic appearance; color fades over time
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Wood-like texture; decent appearance
|
|
Maintenance
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Low — just periodic cleaning and repainting (every 10–15 years)
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Very low — occasional washing
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Moderate — needs repainting every 5–10 years
|
|
Fire Resistance
|
Non-combustible (fire rated)
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Melts or burns
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Treated wood — not fire resistant
|
|
Moisture Resistance
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Excellent — resists swelling, warping, rot
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Poor — may warp or crack
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Good, but susceptible if paint seal breaks
|
|
Impact Resistance
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Very strong — stands up to hail and debris
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Weak — can crack or chip easily
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Better than vinyl, but not as strong as Hardie
|
|
Warranty
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30-year non-prorated limited warranty
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20–25 years (varies)
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Typically 50 years (limited, often prorated)
|
|
Cost
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$$$ (Premium investment)
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$ (Lowest cost)
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$$ (Mid-range)
|
|
Environmental Impact
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Green building material; long lifespan reduces waste
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Petroleum-based; less eco-friendly
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Uses wood fibers; moderate sustainability
|
|
Installation Skill Needed
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Requires certified installer (like us!)
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Easy; many install types
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Moderate; must be careful with moisture barrier
|
Key Questions About James Hardie Siding: Cost, Life, Upkeep & Warranty
The cost of Hardie siding installation typically ranges from $15,000 to $35,000+, depending on your home’s size, siding style, trim package, and project complexity. While it’s more expensive upfront than vinyl, it’s a long-term investment that offers exceptional durability, style, and value. We offer free, no-pressure estimates so you can explore options confidently.
Hardie siding is engineered to last 30–50+ years when installed correctly and maintained. It resists rot, insects, and harsh Pennsylvania weather — from snowy winters to humid summers — making it one of the most durable siding products available.
Hardie siding requires minimal upkeep. If you choose a ColorPlus® finish, you won’t need to repaint for 15+ years. Occasional rinsing with a hose and checking caulked joints annually is typically all that’s needed. No scraping, no warping, no mold — just long-lasting beauty.
Yes. James Hardie offers a 30-year limited warranty on the siding and a 15-year warranty on their factory-applied ColorPlus® finishes. When installed by a certified team like Kesting Construction, you’re covered — and your warranty is protected by professional workmanship.
Absolutely. While vinyl and wood may have a lower initial cost, they often require more frequent repairs or replacement. Hardie siding delivers greater longevity, better protection, and improved curb appeal, making it a wise choice for Pennsylvania homeowners looking for value that lasts.
Most projects take 7 to 10 business days, depending on the size and complexity of the home. We’ll give you a clear project timeline, handle permits and prep, and communicate throughout — so you know exactly what to expect.
Yes. Hardie siding comes in a wide range of profiles, textures, and over 20 factory colors. Whether your home is modern, traditional, or historic, we can help you select a design that complements your architecture and stands out in your neighborhood.
Yes. Hardie siding is non-combustible and approved for use in fire-rated construction. It doesn’t ignite or contribute fuel to a fire, offering added peace of mind for homeowners.
Hardie siding is built to withstand rain, snow, wind, and freeze-thaw cycles — making it a smart choice for Pennsylvania’s unpredictable seasons. Unlike vinyl, it won’t warp or crack, and unlike wood, it won’t rot or attract pests.
The Hardie Transformation!
Why Choose James Hardie Siding?
James Hardie Siding Product Catalog
HardiePlank Lap Siding
HardieShingle Siding
HardiePanel Vertical Siding
HardieWrap
What Discerning Homeowners Should Know Before Choosing James Hardie® Siding
Every elite product comes with tradeoffs. Here’s what to understand—before you invest.
At Kesting Construction, we work with homeowners who expect the very best—and James Hardie® siding consistently delivers on that expectation. But true peace of mind comes from knowing not just the benefits, but also the considerations. Here’s what you should know upfront:
Precision Installation Matters
James Hardie is a premium fiber cement product engineered for longevity. But to unlock its full performance, it must be installed with absolute precision. Improper installation can lead to water issues or void the manufacturer’s warranty.
This is not a product to trust to the lowest bidder—it’s why we’re an Elite Preferred Contractor.
It’s Heavier—Because It’s Built to Last
Compared to vinyl or engineered wood, James Hardie siding is substantially denser and more robust. That extra weight translates into durability—but it also requires skilled handling, specialized tools, and refined craftsmanship.
Luxury comes with substance—and structure.
It’s Low Maintenance—Not No Maintenance
Fiber cement doesn’t rot, warp, or attract pests. But for a pristine appearance, expect occasional care:
Gentle annual cleaning
Repainting every 10–15 years (unless using ColorPlus®)
Periodic caulking to protect joints
Our team walks you through a custom maintenance plan suited to your climate and home design.
Clearances Are Critical
Fiber cement performs beautifully when properly detailed. That means maintaining specific clearances from soil, decks, and roofing to avoid moisture intrusion. We design with these technical factors in mind from day one—so you don’t have to worry later.
Premium Selections May Require Patience
The most sought-after styles and designer colors occasionally have longer lead times. We help our clients plan ahead and select finishes that align with both aesthetic goals and timelines.
Great design is always worth the wait.
The Bottom Line on Investing in James Hardie Siding
James Hardie siding is unmatched in longevity, beauty, and performance—when it’s installed and maintained to the standards it deserves. At Kesting Construction, we bring that level of precision and care to every project we touch.
True luxury is never rushed—and never compromised.
Why Kesting For Your Hardie Siding?
Kesting Construction has a long history of providing top-notch home renovation services and has established a reputation for quality and reliability. Their team of experts is highly trained and experienced in all aspects of siding installation, and they are equipped with the latest tools and technology to ensure that your project is completed efficiently and to the highest standards.
Schedule Your FREE Hardie Siding Estimate
Tom and his team were true professionals.
From the quote stage all the way through completion, there was always open communication. 10/10 would recommend to anyone looking to have quality work done at an affordable price.
Anthony C. Customer Review
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