When you’re planning a siding replacement project, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is which material to use. James Hardie siding, a fiber cement material, is one of the most popular options for Indianapolis-area homeowners. But, how long does James Hardie siding last? Is it a good investment for your home?
We’re here to answer all of your questions. Continue reading to learn more about the longevity of James Hardie homes and tips to prolong the lifespan of your new siding.
How Long Does James Hardie Siding Last in Indianapolis, IN?
On average, you can expect your James Hardie siding to last about 30 years. In fact, James Hardie is so confident in its product that the manufacturer offers a 30-year non-prorated warranty for all its siding products and a 15-year warranty on its trim boards.
Of course, there are a few things you can do to prolong your James Hardie siding lifespan even beyond 30 years, which we’ll talk more about in a minute.
Why Does James Hardie Board Last So Long?
Quality is no concern when considering how long does James Hardie siding last. James Hardie cement board siding is expected to last for decades thanks to its unique make-up. James Hardie fiber cement siding is made from a combination of the following ingredients:
- Portland cement
- Wood cellulose fibers
- Sand
- Water
The result is an extremely durable material that’s made to last. Beyond the material itself, let’s take a closer look at a few of the other reasons for the long lifespan of James Hardie siding.
Resistance to Weather Extremes
One of the reasons so many homeowners choose our team to install James Hardie siding in Indianapolis is because it’s designed to withstand our many weather extremes. Unlike other materials, which are very susceptible to storm damage, James Hardie siding can handle heavy winds, rain, snow, ice, hail, and extreme heat.
It Comes With ColorPlus® Technology
Another reason for its durability is the baked-on finish that’s available on James Hardie siding products. Called ColorPlus® Technology, this has UV resistance built in, so your siding won’t fade over time. This ensures that your siding continues to look vibrant even years after installation.
It’s Resistant to Fire and Pests
Unlike other siding materials, James Hardie siding is fire resistant so it won’t contribute fuel in the event of a fire. Similarly, it’s resistant to common pests like termites, carpenter bees, and woodpeckers, so you won’t have to worry about the kind of damage you might get with wood siding.
Tips to Prolong the Lifespan of Your James Hardie Siding
While 30 years is an excellent lifespan for siding, there are a few things you can do to make your investment last even beyond the warranty period.
Choose the Right Contractor for the Job
Just like any other material, if James Hardie siding isn’t properly installed from the beginning, it’s more likely to fail over time. The best thing you can do to improve your siding’s lifespan is to choose a certified James Hardie installer for the job.
Our team is proud to be a James Hardie Elite Remodeler, which means that we’ve completed training to learn the proper installation techniques so your siding lasts as long as possible.
Keep Up With Regular Maintenance
Especially compared to other siding materials, James Hardie siding is relatively low maintenance. However, if you rinse it down with a garden hose and use a gentle brush to remove dirt once or twice a year, this can go a long way in helping your siding to last longer.
Combat Moisture
James Hardie siding is very resistant to moisture issues, especially when compared to other siding materials. However, the more you can keep water away from your siding, the longer it will last.
We recommend adjusting your sprinklers away from your siding so it doesn’t directly spray your home’s exterior. You can also plant flowers and gardens away from your siding to prevent excess water at the base of your siding.
Schedule Your James Hardie Siding Installation With the Aztec Homes Team
Now that you know how to answer the question, “How long does James Hardie siding last?” you should have a better idea about whether it is the right siding material for your replacement project.
When you are ready to take the next step and get one step closer to the updated exterior of your dreams, the Aztec Homes team is here for you. Contact us today to ask us any questions you have about James Hardie siding or to request a free quote for your project.
