By Rochel Maday | Published Apr 13, 2023 9:50 AM
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Hardie Board, a type of fiber cement siding, is a popular option for homeowners looking for a durable and low-maintenance material to cover the exterior of their home. Made from a blend of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, Hardie Board siding is sustainable; resistant to fire, insects, and rot; and able to offer homeowners a high return on investment.
According to HomeGuide, Hardie Board siding cost typically ranges from $6 to $13 per square foot, including materials and labor. The total cost depends on several factors, such as the size of the siding project, the regional price differences, and the installation’s complexity. Additional costs to consider include the removal and disposal of existing siding along with finishing options and ongoing maintenance costs.
This guide will explain the main cost factors affecting Hardie Board siding installation, the unique benefits of this material compared to other types of siding, and the ways homeowners can save on installation costs without sacrificing the quality of the materials or workmanship.
Hardie Board siding was developed by the James Hardie Building Products company in the 1980s. Compared to other types of siding, Hardie Board siding offers a unique combination of features. It’s durable, low-maintenance, versatile, and surprisingly economical despite its long list of benefits (which one might think would send the price higher).
Hardie Board siding is a fiber cement siding consisting of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. It’s designed to mimic the look of wood siding or stucco with less fading, chipping, and peeling. Hardie Board siding is also designed to withstand extreme temperatures and high winds, making it an option for homeowners in every climate and location.
Hardie Plank siding cost typically ranges from $6 to $13 per square foot. While the cost of this unique siding may be higher than the cost of house siding alternatives, like vinyl, many homeowners and contractors still consider it an economical choice based on its durability and minimal maintenance costs.
The cost of Hardie Board siding can vary depending on several factors. Since local averages can fluctuate, it’s important for homeowners to understand the different factors that can impact Hardie Board siding cost. The following are some key considerations for homeowners to keep in mind.
The size of a home is a major factor in determining the cost for Hardie siding installation. Generally speaking, the larger the home, the higher the cost will be, since more materials and labor will be needed to complete the job.
Most siding, including Hardie Board, is charged by the square foot. Hardie Board siding costs between $6 and $13 per square foot, depending on the type of Hardie Board product chosen and any additional features or design elements.
It can be difficult for a homeowner to determine how much square footage the exterior surfaces of their home add up to, though; it’s often easier to estimate using the home’s interior square footage. Homeowners will want to note that costs may be higher for homes with multiple stories or complex architectural features. The following table shows the average cost for Hardie Board siding (including materials and installation) for various home sizes.
Hardie Board is a type of fiber cement siding that is available in a wide range of styles, so homeowners have the option to choose the one that best aligns with their preferred aesthetic and design preferences. Whether a home’s style can be described as Craftsman, colonial, modern, Victorian, Tudor, Cape Cod, or farmhouse, there’s a Hardie Board siding type to match.
Different Hardie Board siding types include vertical, board and batten, Dutch lap, shingle and shakes, horizontal, log, scallops, and clapboard.
While just about every style of Hardie Board siding fits into a typical range of $6 to $13 per square foot, some styles have more distinct price points. For example, shingles typically cost between $2 and $6 per square foot, while clapboard siding can range from $4 to $6 per square foot. It’s important to take siding type and style into account when homeowners are estimating Hardie Board costs. Each type of siding and its average cost are described in a section below.
Siding color can influence Hardie Board prices, depending on how the boards are painted. Homeowners have two main options when it comes to Hardie siding colors.
On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $1.50 and $2.75 per square foot to paint their pre-primed Hardie Board siding. For example, an 1,800-square-foot home would cost between $2,700 and $4,050 to paint.
Factory-painted siding costs more up front and can be limited in design choices. But it tends to require less maintenance over time and typically has a more uniform finish. Deciding between the two options comes down to a homeowner’s personal preference and budget.
Trim boards are used to finish the edges and corners of a home’s exterior siding. They can be made from wood, PVC, or fiber cement. Trim is designed to protect the edges of siding from moisture, insects, and other types of damage, making it a very important component to consider.
The cost of trim isn’t always included in Hardie Board pricing and can vary based on thickness, length, and material. The type of trim board can also affect its price. Common trim boards include the following:
Some types of trim, like window and door trim, can be quite detailed, which can boost installation costs. Others, like corner boards, can be thicker and more expensive. While every project is unique, an estimated cost for PVC trim for a house with 20 windows, two doors, one garage, and four simple corners is around $1,500.
The average labor cost to install Hardie siding can vary significantly by region and complexity of the job.
For example, installing Hardie siding in an area with a higher cost of living will likely be more expensive. Job complexity can refer to the height of a home or the need for additional preparation work. If more effort or caution is required to complete an installation, it will likely be more expensive.
When homeowners are estimating Hardie Board installation costs, it’s important for them to consider both materials and labor. Homeowners will want to note that installation labor for siding costs between $3 and $7 per square foot.
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When homeowners are considering Hardie Plank pricing, it’s important for them to keep in mind any additional components that may influence overall material and labor expenses. The following scenarios—including old siding removal, ongoing maintenance costs, and the cost comparison between fiber cement and other types of siding materials—can all have an impact on the cost of Hardie Board siding installation.
Removing old siding before installing new Hardie Board siding can impact the overall installation cost. Homeowners can expect to pay around $2,000 to have their existing siding removed. The process typically involves stripping away the existing siding, inspecting for signs of damage or rot, and disposing of the old material.
If repairs are needed, such as mold removal or repairs to dry rot, homeowners can expect their Hardie Board siding prices to go up. Removing mold typically costs between $20 and $30 per square foot, and repairing dry rot can cost between $100 and $2,000.
While it may add to the overall cost, removing old siding is necessary to ensure that a home’s new siding, including Hardie Board, is properly installed.
When comparing Hardie Board siding to other brands of fiber cement siding, homeowners will need to consider more than just price. For example, not all fiber cement siding is made from the same components. While other brands use wood fibers or synthetic binders, Hardie Board offers a unique blend of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. The result is a highly durable and weather-resistant product.
Other fiber cement siding brands are known for offering a wider range of styles and finishes compared to Hardie Board. However, Hardie Board is still the preferred choice for many homeowners and contractors because of its durability, resistance to moisture and pets, and extended lifespan, making it a worthwhile investment over the competition.
The following chart may be helpful for those interested in comparing Hardie Board pricing to pricing for other fiber cement siding brands. Prices are for materials only, so a homeowner will need to add labor costs to get a realistic picture of the total installation cost.
The best siding material for a project can depend on a variety of factors. While Hardie Board offers several benefits, other house siding materials do have some advantages over fiber cement.
For example, in terms of vinyl siding vs. fiber cement, vinyl is typically less expensive and easier to install. It also requires very little maintenance and is available in a wide range of colors.
Wood siding offers a natural and warm aesthetic and can be customized with different stains or paints. However, wood siding may require more maintenance than fiber cement.
Brick and stone siding offer a timeless and classic look that can instantly boost curb appeal and add value to a home. These materials are extremely durable and can be more expensive to install than fiber cement.
When homeowners are trying to decide between fiber cement and other siding materials, price can be quite influential. The following chart offers cost comparisons per square foot across the most common siding types.
Although Hardie Board siding is known for its durability and low maintenance, homeowners may need to do some occasional upkeep. It’s recommended that Hardie Board siding be visually inspected once a year for any cracks or damage. A homeowner can do this themselves or hire a professional for about $100. If cracks are found in the siding, a repair kit can be purchased for about $15 to fill in gaps with caulking.
Additionally, siding needs to be washed with a pressure washer at least once a year to remove dirt, grime, and other forms of buildup. Homeowners can either purchase a pressure washer for around $300 or rent one for about $40.
These maintenance tasks are small and easy to overlook, but keeping up with Hardie Board maintenance can help prolong the lifespan of the siding and prevent potentially costly repairs.
While Hardie Board siding is one type of siding material, it comes in a variety of styles. From clapboard to scallops, each style has its unique advantages that impact the overall Hardie Board siding cost, as explained below.
Board and batten siding is a popular style of Hardie Board. It features wide, vertical boards with narrow strips covering the gaps between them. This creates a distinctive, textured appearance that can complement a wide range of architectural styles. Board and batten siding is also sometimes used on the interior of a home as a drywall alternative.
Since board and batten siding requires additional materials to create its textured look, it can be more expensive than other styles. But the cost can vary depending on the size of the home and the complexity of the installation.
Clapboard is a classic style of siding that features long, horizontal boards with bevels or slightly curved edges that overlap each other. This feature helps to create a strong weather-resistant barrier. Beveled edges also create shadow lines that can give this type of siding a subtle texture.
Clapboard siding mimics the look of traditional wood siding and is easy to paint or stain. This allows homeowners to customize the final look of their Hardie clapboard siding. When it comes to pricing, clapboard siding is in the mid-range for Hardie Board siding styles.
Dutch lap siding by Hardie Board is similar to clapboard but features slightly curved horizontal boards with a groove between them, known as a “lap.” Just like clapboard siding, Dutch lap has a shadow line that offers a bit of texture and visual interest. Dutch lap is a classic siding type commonly used on traditional or colonial-style homes.
In terms of cost, Dutch lap siding is a mid-range style. It’s typically more expensive than simpler, smoother styles but less expensive than more intricate styles like board and batten. Installation can be a bit tricky for novices, since the curve of the boards must be perfectly matched.
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Hardie Board horizontal siding features long and narrow boards installed, as the name suggests, horizontally. The boards typically measure about 5 to 6 inches wide and can have either a smooth or textured finish.
Horizontal siding is one of the most versatile styles homeowners can choose. It looks great on nearly any architectural style, from traditional to modern and everything in between. One advantage of horizontal boards is that they are easier to install than most other siding styles, making them a popular choice for DIY homeowners.
Hardie Board log siding is designed to match the look of a traditional log cabin. Log siding features long, horizontal boards with a textured surface that mimics the look of natural wood. The boards are then staggered to create a natural and rustic feel.
Hardie Board log siding is resistant to moisture, rot, and insect damage, unlike traditional wood log siding. It’s also noncombustible, making it safer than traditional wood siding and even engineered siding, which includes wood chips.
Because of its detailed design, Hardie Board log siding can be more expensive than smoother siding options. However, it’s the ideal choice for homes that can benefit from a cabin-style aesthetic, such as vacation homes in the woods or mountain cabins.
Scallops are a siding style featuring curved, overlapping panels that create a scalloped, fish-scale effect. Compared to other siding options, a scalloped design can add quite a bit of visual interest and charm to a home’s exterior.
Hardie Board scallops can also provide an additional layer of insulation to a home and help to make it more energy efficient. Hardie Board scallops are great for cottage-style homes and are ideal for bungalows and homes in coastal areas.
Scallops have a more intricate design than some other types of siding. They can also be more challenging than other styles to install due to their curved panels. As a result, scallops can be more expensive than simpler Hardie Board styles.
Shingle and shakes siding is designed to mimic the look of natural cedar shingles and shakes. The siding features individual panels with textured surfaces that give the appearance of wood grain. Homeowners can choose to install shingle and shakes siding in a variety of patterns, including straight and staggered.
Hardie Board shingle and shakes siding is ideal for traditional or Craftsman-style homes and is a popular choice for homes in historic neighborhoods or areas with architectural restrictions. It’s important to note that installation can be challenging, so shingle and shakes may not be the best choice for DIY installations.
Hardie Board vertical siding features vertical panels that run the entire height of a home, creating a defined and modern look. Vertical boards are incredibly versatile and can be installed in a variety of patterns, including board and batten or alternating widths.
Vertical boards are a popular siding choice for homes with clean lines and a minimalist design. Adding vertical siding to a home can instantly transform it into a more modern style. Installation is a fairly straightforward process and it’s also less labor-intensive, making vertical siding an ideal choice for homeowners who want to tackle their own installation.
Siding is essential for protecting a home from the elements, and Hardie Board is one of the most beneficial options available. The siding’s durability, sustainability, and resistance to multiple threats make it an attractive choice. Additionally, the affordable maintenance costs make it a cost-effective option when homeowners are considering the cost to reside a house with Hardie Plank. The top benefits of Hardie Board siding are explored below in more detail.
Hardie Board is made from a mixture of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. This unique blend of materials makes the siding stronger and more resilient than traditional wood or vinyl options.
Hardie Board doesn’t rot, buckle, warp, or swell. It’s also highly resistant to insects, fire, and moisture. Additionally, more durable siding protects a home from the elements while typically improving energy efficiency and reducing energy costs.
Hardie Board siding can last for up to 50 years without needing to be replaced, providing a long-term investment for homeowners. Homeowners who choose Hardie Board siding are also less likely to have to take on costly repairs.
A sustainable home material should have a minimal negative impact on the environment throughout its life cycle. Hardie Board siding is a perfect example of sustainability in home improvement projects.
To start, it’s made from sustainable materials, including sand and cement. It has a lifespan of up to 50 years, which means homeowners won’t have to replace it as frequently, reducing waste. The siding is also low-maintenance and reduces the need for cleaning products and chemicals that can impact the environment.
Additionally, Hardie Board is recyclable, reducing waste and minimizing the impact on the environment once its lifespan comes to an end. By reducing their environmental impact and contributing to a healthier plant, homeowners can feel proud of their choice in Hardie Board siding.
Choosing Hardie Board siding can help homeowners avoid costly repairs and potential health hazards caused by pests.
Pests can cause damage to siding material, potentially leading to costly repairs or replacement. Termites or carpenter ants can create holes and weaken siding. Rodents can build nests and leave behind droppings that can corrode siding over time. In addition to causing physical damage, pests can pose health risks and create unpleasant living conditions in homes with vulnerable siding.
Hardie Board is made from a material that is less appealing to pests than traditional wood siding. It’s also less susceptible to rot, which can attract pests that feed on decaying wood. Hardie Board’s durability and strength also make it more difficult for pests to penetrate the siding and gain access to a home.
Weather can cause fading, chipping, cracking, warping, and rotting in common types of siding. From rain and hail to the sun’s UV rays and extreme temperature fluctuations, constant exposure to the elements can cause serious damage to siding over time.
Additionally, many common siding materials, like vinyl and wood, are flammable. Siding that is not fire resistant can easily ignite and make it easier for a fire to quickly consume a home.
Hardie Board siding is both fire and weather resistant. The siding’s unique composition is noncombustible and can slow down the spread of an isolated fire. Additionally, Hardie Board siding is engineered to withstand harsh weather conditions, including heavy rain, strong winds, and dangerous hail.
Common maintenance for siding includes cleaning regularly (a hose or power washer will often do the trick); removing debris; checking for cracks, warping, or loose panels; and checking for proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup. Some types of siding may need repainting or sealing on a regular basis as well.
Maintenance can eat up a lot of a homeowner’s resources, including their time and money. But compared to other siding options, Hardie Board requires minimal upkeep. Since it’s resistant to rot and mildew, it doesn’t require frequent cleaning. It’s also durable enough to minimize the risk of damage from pests and weather events, so costly repairs and replacements are rare.
Hardie Board makes it easier for homeowners to enjoy their siding without the hassle and expense of constant upkeep.
Return on investment when it comes to home improvement projects refers to how much value different projects have added to a property. The higher the return on investment, the more value a home improvement project has added to a home or property.
Projects that improve a home’s curb appeal, energy efficiency, or functionality can all offer a high return on investment. Examples include replacing windows or remodeling a kitchen or bathroom. Installing Hardie Board siding is also considered a high return on investment project for homeowners, as it improves a home’s curb appeal and boosts a home’s functionality by providing a strong, durable, and low-maintenance siding option that can withstand harsh weather conditions, pests, and even fire.
Installing Hardie Board siding can increase a home’s curb appeal, overall value, and ability to withstand the elements. When it comes to installation, homeowners have two main options: DIY or hiring a professional. Each approach has pros and cons, along with different potential Hardie Board installation costs.
It’s true that when taking on a siding installation themselves, homeowners can save quite a bit of money on labor costs. They can also work around their own schedule and further develop their home improvement skills, like learning how to cut cement boards.
However, a DIY siding installation requires specific tools and equipment. There’s also a risk of mistakes and improper installation. A DIY install can also take longer to complete than originally anticipated.
While hiring a professional for a Hardie Board siding installation will come with higher labor costs and offer homeowners less control over the project, a professional brings years of expertise and experience to an installation, along with the proper tools and equipment. They’re more likely to get the job done right the first time and in less time than a homeowner attempting a DIY installation.
Since Hardie Board siding cost varies depending on type and quantity, material costs won’t fluctuate much between going the
DIY route and hiring a professional. Labor costs vary depending on the contractor and location but are certainly an additional cost for a homeowner to consider when hiring a professional. However, a homeowner will likely pay between $1,200 and $2,100 just in tools to install their own Hardie Board siding, which could minimize any potential labor savings.
It’s important for homeowners to consider their level of expertise and experience before attempting a DIY installation. Homeowners will also want to remember that improper installation can lead to costly repairs down the line. While it’s possible for a homeowner to complete a DIY install of Hardie Board siding, hiring a professional can ensure a proper and efficient installation while minimizing the risk of mistakes.
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With a little creativity and effort, it’s possible to keep the cost of Hardie Board within budget. By implementing one or more of the following tips, homeowners can reduce the cost of Hardie Board siding while still enjoying its many benefits.
To ensure a successful Hardie Board siding installation project, it’s important for a homeowner to ask potential contractors a series of questions. Asking questions about a contractor’s qualifications, processes, and terms can give homeowners peace of mind knowing they made the right choice. The following are some key questions homeowners can ask.
Hardie Board siding is a durable, sustainable, and low-maintenance option for homeowners looking to upgrade their home’s curb appeal and exterior elements. Hardie Board siding costs can vary depending on factors such as house size and siding type, along with additional costs such as old siding removal.
Overall, investing in Hardie Board can be a wise choice for homeowners looking to improve their home’s functionality and value. For remaining questions about Hardie Board siding, homeowners can refer to the FAQ section below.
Yes, Hardie Board is a long-lasting siding option. When installed and maintained properly, it has a lifespan of up to 50 years. The material is very durable and resistant to several siding threats, like fire, pests, rot, and extreme weather. While Hardie Board can be more expensive up front than other siding types, its longer lifespan makes it a worthwhile investment.
Hardie Board siding is waterproof, making it resistant to water damage, rot, and swelling. Since waterproof siding can help protect the structure and integrity of a home, waterproof siding is ideal for areas with high humidity or frequent rainfall. Because of this feature, Hardie Board siding can help save homeowners money on potential water damage repairs.
Like all outdoor products, Hardie Boards can eventually fade from the sun due to the effects of UV radiation. However, compared to the fading in other siding products, Hardie Boards’ fading is minimal. Even after years of sun exposure, the finish only slightly dulls, meaning that it remains an attractive and durable siding option for homeowners concerned about fading.
Hardie Board siding tends to be more expensive than other siding types. Manufacturers are struggling to keep up with the demand for fiber-cement siding, leading to higher prices. Additionally, Hardie Board siding is heavier than vinyl, meaning it takes more effort and time to install. Painting is often part of the installation process as well, adding to higher labor costs. Finally, fewer contractors specialize in fiber-cement siding than in lvinyl, which contributes to the higher price.
No, Hardie Board siding does not break easily. Broken siding can allow moisture and pests to penetrate a home’s exterior and cause expensive damage. But Hardie Board is an incredibly durable siding material, resistant to rot, buckling, and warping. When properly installed and maintained, Hardie Board siding can withstand harsh weather conditions and maintain its structural integrity for several decades.
Yes, Hardie Board siding can increase a home’s value. Houses with Hardie Board siding offer multiple benefits and can be more attractive to potential buyers, resulting in a higher resale value.
Sources: HomeGuide, Angi, Fixr, Forbes, Remodeling Calculator, Stateline Exteriors
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