Brought to you by Aztec Homes—Your Trusted Local Exterior Remodeling Experts
At Aztec Homes, we know that choosing the right siding for your home isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about making a smart investment in long-term protection, energy efficiency, and property value. That’s why we proudly recommend Hardie Plank® siding by James Hardie—the most trusted name in fiber cement siding.
Whether you’re renovating your forever home or preparing to sell in a competitive market like Indianapolis, Hardie Plank siding delivers across the board. In this guide, we explore ten essential advantages of choosing Hardie Plank siding—and why it’s the perfect match for Indiana’s unique climate conditions.
1. Unmatched Return on Investment
When it comes to siding, Hardie Plank continues to lead the industry in return on investment, earning top rankings year after year with ROI’s of around 88.4%. For more than a decade, fiber cement siding has been recognized as one of the most cost-effective home remodeling upgrades, consistently delivering strong resale value.
For homeowners in Central Indiana, this choice goes beyond improving curb appeal—it’s a financially smart investment. Hardie Plank enhances a home’s energy performance by improving thermal resistance, allowing HVAC systems to operate more efficiently through both sweltering summers and freezing winters.
And when it comes time to sell, homes outfitted with attractive, durable Hardie siding tend to stand out to potential buyers, often commanding higher offers and reducing time on the market.
2. Built for Indiana’s Climate with HZ5® Engineering
James Hardie’s HZ5® siding is engineered for zones like Indianapolis, where weather extremes are the norm. From July’s heat and humidity to January’s snow and sleet, Indiana’s climate puts any siding material to the test.
HZ5® is specially formulated to:
- Resist moisture absorption, preventing warping and swelling caused by freeze-thaw cycles.
- Maintain dimensional stability even with wide temperature swings—ideal for our 90-degree summers and sub-zero winters.
- Combat mold and mildew, which thrive in high-humidity environments like Indiana during the spring and summer months.
With this region-specific engineering, you get siding that performs year after year—regardless of what Mother Nature throws at it.
3. Timeless Style with Maximum Design Flexibility
At Aztec Homes, we know exterior design is personal. That’s why we love installing Hardie Plank—it offers an unmatched palette of colors, styles, and textures to complement virtually any architectural style in the Indy metro area.
Design highlights include:
- 23 vibrant ColorPlus® finishes, pre-cured for fade resistance and consistent application.
- Multiple textures—from cedar-style planks to sleek, modern panels and board-and-batten looks.
- Trim, soffit, and fascia combinations for fully customized curb appeal.
4. Non-Combustible and Fire Resistant
Fire risk may not be top of mind when selecting new siding, but it’s an important factor—especially as extreme weather events and fire hazards continue to rise in many areas. Unlike vinyl, which melts, or wood, which burns, Hardie Plank siding is non-combustible. It won’t ignite or fuel a fire, offering an added layer of protection that’s built into the material itself.
This makes it an ideal choice for families who prioritize safety, rural homeowners with outdoor fire pits or nearby wooded areas, and anyone concerned about evolving wildfire risks or rising insurance premiums. Because of its superior fire resistance, Hardie Plank is also recognized by building codes for use in fire-rated construction zones—something traditional siding materials simply can’t match.
5. Superior Fade Resistance with ColorPlus® Technology
Indiana summers can be brutal on exterior paint—but Hardie’s ColorPlus® Technology is built to last. This isn’t traditional painting: it’s a factory-controlled, UV-cured finish applied in multiple coats.
Benefits include:
- 30% longer color retention compared to on-site paint jobs
- Consistent finish with no streaks, drips, or uneven tones
- Longer repaint cycles—saving you money over time
And if you decide to switch up your color scheme in the future, Hardie Plank’s surface accepts new paint evenly and cleanly—unlike vinyl, which often requires full replacement to change colors.
6. Exceptional Weather and Impact Performance
From lake-effect snow to Midwest thunderstorms and gusty spring winds, Indiana weather can be punishing. Hardie Plank siding is built for impact and endurance.
Performance highlights:
- Wind resistance up to 130 mph, ideal for open lots or storm-prone suburbs
- Thick fiber cement composition that resists cracking, chipping, and deformation
- Protection from debris like hail, tree branches, and flying yard items
Vinyl may buckle, dent, or tear—but Hardie siding stays strong, keeping your home protected and looking sharp year-round.
7. Thicker, Stronger Construction for Lasting Protection
At 0.312 inches thick, Hardie Plank siding dwarfs typical vinyl siding, which averages only 0.04–0.05 inches. This increased density adds multiple functional benefits:
- Better noise reduction, particularly near busy streets or neighborhoods
- Stronger thermal resistance, which helps maintain comfortable interior temperatures
- Heavier weight and structural support, giving homes a “solid” feel both visually and physically
Clients frequently tell us their homes feel more insulated and secure after installation—a testament to the superior engineering behind Hardie products.
8. Elevate Your Home’s Curb Appeal
First impressions matter, and few elements shape a home’s exterior character more than its siding. James Hardie siding delivers the warm, natural look of real wood without the ongoing upkeep, allowing homeowners to enjoy timeless style with long-lasting performance. Its deep wood grain texture adds richness and authenticity, while thoughtfully designed trim accents around windows, doors, and corners provide architectural interest that enhances the overall appearance.
Unlike lower-quality materials, Hardie’s colorfast finish resists fading and maintains its visual appeal through the changing seasons. For homes in neighborhoods like Meridian-Kessler, Nora, or Fall Creek Place, this level of curb appeal can make all the difference—helping properties stand out and sell more quickly in a competitive market.
9. Virtually Maintenance-Free Living
Let’s be honest—no one wants to spend their weekends fixing faded, peeling siding. With Hardie Plank, you’ll enjoy long-term ease of ownership.
Low-maintenance features include:
- Fade-resistant finishes that don’t require repainting for 15+ years
- Moisture resistance, which eliminates rot and mold
- Pest-proof materials—no more termites, carpenter ants, or woodpecker damage
Maintenance boils down to a light wash with soap and water. That’s it. Enjoy more time outdoors and less time worrying about your siding.
10. Backed by Industry-Leading Warranties
Few siding manufacturers back their products with warranties as robustly as James Hardie. Your investment is protected by:
- 30-Year Limited Transferable Product Warranty: coverage for material defects including cracking, rotting, and delamination
- 15-Year Finish Warranty on ColorPlus®: protection from chipping, peeling, and fading
These warranties are not only generous—they’re reliable, because they come from a company with a long-standing track record of performance and support.
Why Proper Installation Matters: Choose the Right Contractor
Hardie Plank® siding is an industry-leading product—but its performance, longevity, and warranty protection all depend on correct installation. That’s why choosing the right contractor is just as important as selecting the siding itself.
Unlike vinyl, fiber cement is heavier and more rigid, requiring specialized tools, proper spacing, moisture barrier integration, and strict adherence to James Hardie’s installation standards. Poor installation can lead to water intrusion, premature wear, and even voided warranties.
At Aztec Homes, we’re trained in Hardie’s best practices and understand the demands of Indiana’s climate. From precise cuts and flashing to clean finishes around windows and trim, our skilled installers ensure your siding not only looks flawless—but performs for decades.
Protect your investment by trusting certified professionals. With Aztec Homes, your Hardie Plank siding is installed right the first time—backed by strong workmanship and full warranty coverage.
Ready to Transform Your Home’s Exterior?
Whether you’re upgrading for aesthetic reasons, increasing energy efficiency, or protecting your investment from the elements, Hardie Plank siding delivers across the board. With its superior construction, versatile design options, and proven long-term value, it’s easy to see why over 5.5 million homeowners have already made the switch.
If you’re considering a siding replacement or new installation, the professionals at Aztec Homes believe James Hardie siding should be at the top of your list—especially in regions with demanding climate conditions like the Indianapolis area.
To get started with your siding project, contact us today for a free consultation!
