Why Hardie Board Siding Is Changing Home Exteriors
Let’s talk about what Hardie board siding installation really means for your home. In simple terms, it’s the process of attaching fiber cement panels to your home’s exterior walls to create a shield that’s both beautiful and incredibly tough. If you’re considering this upgrade for your Chicago home, here’s what you should know at a glance:
| Hardie Siding Installation Basics | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Timeline | 1-2 weeks for professional installation |
| Required Clearance | 6″ above grade, 1-2″ above horizontal surfaces |
| Key Installation Steps | 1. Install moisture barrier 2. Attach starter strips 3. Mount trim pieces 4. Install siding with proper overlaps 5. Caulk and paint |
| Tools Needed | Fiber cement shears, circular saw with diamond blade, pneumatic nailer, safety equipment |
| Professional vs DIY | Professional installation recommended for warranty validity |
When I talk with homeowners about exterior renovations, Hardie board siding installation consistently emerges as the smart choice for those who want both beauty and staying power. What makes it special? It’s the unique blend of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers that creates a material tough enough to stand up to whatever Mother Nature throws at it—especially important for us Chicagoans who experience everything from summer heat waves to winter blizzards.
Think about it: while vinyl siding can crack in the cold or warp in extreme heat, and wood requires constant maintenance to prevent rot, Hardie siding just keeps looking great year after year. I’ve seen installations from 15+ years ago that still look fresh and solid. With minimal care—just a gentle annual washing and repainting every 15-20 years—your home stays protected for decades. That’s why homeowners typically recoup up to 75% of their investment when they sell their property.
I’m Voytek Glab, and as the owner of Perfect Windows and Siding, I’ve personally overseen hundreds of Hardie board siding installation projects throughout the Chicagoland area during my 25 years in this industry. My team doesn’t just install siding—we perfect the techniques that ensure your James Hardie investment is protected by full warranty coverage while delivering maximum performance and curb appeal.
Hardie Board Siding 101: Composition, Styles & Cost Drivers
When James Hardie introduced fiber cement siding in the 1980s, they changed home exteriors forever. Today, their innovative products protect more than 8 million homes across North America, with nearly a quarter of all U.S. homes now showcasing fiber cement siding.
So what makes this material so special? At its core, Hardie board combines Portland cement, sand, water, and cellulose fibers pressed into remarkably durable panels. This clever mixture creates siding that looks just like traditional wood but stands up to challenges that would destroy other materials.
“Your home is your biggest investment, and its exterior should be both beautiful and resilient,” says our installation team leader at Perfect Windows & Siding. “We’ve seen how Hardie products transform homes throughout Chicago with lasting protection and style.”
Hardie siding comes in several versatile styles to complement any architectural vision:
- HardiePlank® Lap Siding gives you that timeless horizontal look that never goes out of style
- HardieShingle® delivers all the charm of cedar shakes without any of the headaches
- HardiePanel® offers striking vertical lines for contemporary homes
- Artisan® Collection features deeper shadow lines for an upscale appearance
- Aspyre Collection blends luxury with modern design flexibility
What truly sets Hardie board apart is their HardieZone® system. Instead of making one-size-fits-all products, they engineer siding specifically for different climate regions. Here in Chicagoland, we’re in HardieZone 5, meaning our siding is specially formulated to handle our challenging freeze-thaw cycles, snow, and those wild temperature swings we experience throughout the year.
Need expert guidance for your Hardie board siding installation? Learn more about our professional Siding services or Find Local Pros in your area.
Material Science & Climate Engineering
The science behind Hardie board siding installation truly impresses our customers. Unlike vinyl or wood, fiber cement is non-combustible and meets strict ASTM E136 standards. In practical terms, this means it won’t catch fire when exposed to flame—potentially giving your family precious extra time in case of emergency.
Moisture resistance is another huge benefit, thanks to the cement composition that doesn’t absorb water like wood or warp like vinyl when temperatures swing. Anyone who’s lived through a Chicago summer followed by a Chicago winter knows how valuable this quality is!
And those famous Chicago winds? Properly installed Hardie siding stands strong against wind loads up to 150 mph. The material’s density also provides excellent impact resistance against hailstorms and flying debris.
Perhaps my favorite feature to point out during consultations is that fiber cement is completely unappetizing to termites and other pests. As I often tell homeowners with a smile, “The only critters in your home will be the ones you’ve invited!”
Style Gallery & Color Options
When it comes to creating your dream home exterior, Hardie board offers incredible design flexibility. With over 700 color options through their ColorPlus® Technology, finding your perfect shade is virtually guaranteed.
The ColorPlus® process is fascinating—they apply multiple coats of finish (50% more than typical house painters use) between curing steps. This creates a finish that resists chipping, cracking, peeling, and fading far better than field-applied paint. Better yet, this factory-applied color comes with a 15-year warranty to complement the 30-year warranty on the siding itself.
Many of our Chicago clients have fallen in love with the Magnolia Home | James Hardie Collection, featuring color palettes created by designer Joanna Gaines. These thoughtfully curated finishes help create harmonious exterior designs that boost curb appeal and make neighbors take notice.
When homeowners visit our Des Plaines showroom, we help them explore options like the bold, head-turning hues in the Statement Collection®, the versatile, complementary tones in the Dream Collection®, or the Primed for Paint option for those who prefer a custom field-applied color.
Texture choices range from sleek modern finishes to the realistic Select Cedarmill pattern that captures the authentic look of natural cedar—without the maintenance headaches.
Budget Snapshot & Key Cost Factors
Planning your Hardie board siding installation budget requires understanding several key factors that influence the overall investment:
First, square footage forms your baseline—larger homes naturally require more materials. Next, consider your home’s complexity—multiple stories, dormers, and intricate architectural details increase labor time and material needs. Don’t forget about removal needs—taking off and disposing of existing siding adds to the project scope.
The trim package you select can significantly impact both aesthetics and cost—decorative elements like HardieTrim® boards create a more finished look but add to your investment. Finally, regional factors like Chicagoland labor rates and specific building codes affect pricing.
While each home is unique (which is why we provide personalized estimates), industry data shows that professional Hardie board siding installation typically falls between mid and high range for siding materials, reflecting its premium quality and longevity.
“Start with your budget, not just your dream,” is advice we often share with homeowners. This practical approach helps you make informed decisions about where to invest in premium features versus where to economize.
At Perfect Windows & Siding, we provide detailed, transparent estimates that clearly break down all costs. We can also suggest phased approaches for those working within budget constraints, such as focusing on street-facing walls first to maximize curb appeal while planning for future phases.
The long-term value of Hardie siding becomes clear when you consider its exceptional durability, low maintenance requirements, and the way it protects your home decade after decade—making it a smart investment in your property’s future.
Benefits & Comparisons With Other Siding Materials
When you’re weighing your options for home exterior materials, Hardie board siding installation consistently stands out from the crowd. It’s not just about looks – though it certainly delivers there – it’s about smart, long-term value for your Chicago home.
The numbers speak for themselves. Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report regularly shows fiber cement siding returning over 75% of its installation cost in added home value. That’s one of the highest returns you’ll find among exterior renovation projects. When we talk with homeowners in Des Plaines and throughout Chicagoland, this impressive ROI often seals the deal.
Let’s break down how Hardie board compares to other popular siding choices:
| Feature | Hardie Board | Vinyl | Wood | Stucco |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Cost | Moderate-High | Low | High | Moderate-High |
| Lifespan | 30-50 years | 20-40 years | 10-30 years | 50-80 years |
| Maintenance | Low | Very Low | High | Moderate |
| Fire Resistance | Excellent | Poor | Poor | Good |
| Impact Resistance | Excellent | Fair | Fair | Good |
| Appearance | Premium | Basic-Good | Premium | Distinctive |
| Color Options | Extensive | Limited | Extensive | Limited |
| Chicago Climate Suitability | Excellent | Good | Fair | Fair |
“After two decades installing exterior siding throughout Illinois, I’ve seen how Hardie board outperforms other materials,” our senior installer often tells customers. “Especially during those brutal Chicago winters and summer storms – that’s when you really see the difference.”
Here’s something many homeowners don’t realize: switching to fiber cement siding might actually lower your insurance premiums. Because of its impressive fire-resistant properties, many insurance companies offer discounts of 5-15%. We always recommend our customers check with their providers – that savings can add up over the years!
Want to learn more about how new siding can boost your home’s value? Check out Why New Siding is Worth the Investment.
Durability & Warranty Edge
When it comes to standing behind their product, James Hardie doesn’t mess around. Your Hardie board siding installation comes with a 30-year non-prorated, limited, transferable substrate warranty. In plain English: this coverage beats most competitors by a mile and adds real value if you ever sell your home.
Choose the ColorPlus® Technology finish? You’ll get an additional 15-year limited warranty protecting against peeling, cracking, and chipping. Compare that to vinyl’s typical 20-25 year warranties or wood siding that might offer minimal coverage or none at all.
“The transferable warranty is a huge selling point,” as our sales manager loves to point out. “When our Des Plaines customers list their homes, that remaining warranty transfers to the new owners – it’s like handing them a valuable insurance policy along with the keys.”
The practical benefit is simple: fewer headaches and expenses over time. While wood siding typically needs repainting every 3-5 years and might need replacement within 10-30 years, Hardie board usually needs repainting only every 10-15 years and can protect your home for half a century with basic maintenance.
Environmental & Safety Perks
Beyond looking great and lasting forever, Hardie board siding installation brings environmental and safety benefits worth considering.
From a green perspective, fiber cement siding is a responsible choice. It contains no harmful chemicals like PVC, uses sustainably sourced cellulose fibers, and requires fewer replacement cycles – meaning less waste in landfills over time. When installed with proper insulation (something we always recommend), it also helps improve your home’s energy efficiency, potentially lowering those Chicago heating bills.
The safety advantages are even more impressive. Hardie board’s non-combustible properties provide crucial fire resistance that vinyl simply can’t match. The material meets ASTM E136 standards as a non-combustible cladding and satisfies ASTM E84 requirements for surface burning characteristics. In a fire emergency, these properties could give your family precious extra minutes – something no homeowner wants to think about, but everyone should consider.
“We take safety seriously from start to finish,” our operations manager often emphasizes. During installation, our crews follow strict silica safety protocols, using proper dust collection, respirators, and thorough cleanup procedures. This protects both our team and your family from the microscopic silica particles released when cutting fiber cement.
Want to see the scientific research behind fiber-cement’s impressive fire safety ratings? Check out this detailed safety report.
Tools, Surface Prep & Safety Checklist
When it comes to Hardie board siding installation, having the right tools isn’t just about convenience—it’s about safety, efficiency, and ensuring your warranty remains valid. I’ve seen many homeowners get excited about tackling this project, only to realize they’re missing critical equipment halfway through.
“The right tools make all the difference between a weekend project and a month-long headache,” says our installation team leader at Perfect Windows & Siding. “We’ve refined our toolkit over hundreds of Chicago installations.”
For cutting Hardie board, you’ll need either fiber-cement shears or a circular saw with a diamond-grit blade. Standard wood-cutting blades won’t cut it—literally! They’ll dull almost immediately and create dangerous kickback. Our crews use saws with HEPA vacuum attachments to capture the silica dust that’s released during cutting.
Fastening requires a pneumatic siding nailer specifically designed for fiber cement. Many DIYers make the mistake of using roofing nailers, which can damage the material and void warranties. Your nails should be stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized (4d or 6d size) to prevent rust streaking down your beautiful new siding.
Safety equipment isn’t optional with Hardie board. A NIOSH-approved N-95 respirator protects your lungs from silica dust, while safety goggles shield your eyes from flying debris. Don’t forget hearing protection—cutting fiber cement can reach noise levels that damage your hearing over time. We also recommend cut-resistant gloves and covering your arms and legs completely.
“I’ve been installing siding for 15 years, and I still wear full protection every time,” notes our senior installer. “Your lungs don’t get a second chance.”
Site Preparation & Measurement Hacks
The secret to a smooth Hardie board siding installation lies in thorough preparation. We’ve learned this lesson the hard way over our decades serving Chicago homeowners.
Before hanging a single board, you’ll need to remove any existing siding and carefully inspect the sheathing underneath. Water damage often hides beneath old siding, and it’s much easier to address these issues now than after your new Hardie board is installed. Our crews thoroughly document any damage we find with photos, so you understand exactly what repairs are needed and why.
Next comes the crucial water-resistive barrier (WRB)—think of it as your home’s raincoat. This housewrap needs to be installed with proper overlaps: minimum 6 inches at horizontal seams and 12 inches at vertical seams. The flashing around windows, doors and other openings must integrate perfectly with this barrier using shingle-lap principles—always directing water outward, never in.
One professional trick we use at Perfect Windows & Siding is creating a “story pole” by marking all course heights on a single board. This simple tool ensures consistent alignment across your entire home and prevents the tiny errors that can accumulate into noticeable misalignments by the time you reach your roofline.
“Chalk lines are your best friend,” explains our project manager. We snap lines to mark stud locations for secure fastening and establish level lines for starter strips and siding courses. In Chicago’s older homes, walls are rarely perfectly square—these reference lines help compensate for structural settling that’s occurred over decades.
Must-Have Materials & Quantities
Beyond the Hardie planks themselves, several supporting materials are essential for a proper installation that will stand up to Chicago’s challenging climate.
Starter strips create the proper angle for your first course of siding. You can either purchase purpose-made strips or create your own by ripping Hardie planks to a 1¼” width. For homes near Lake Michigan, where wind-driven rain is common, we often use factory-made starter strips for their consistent quality.
Every butt joint needs 6-inch wide weather-resistant flashing to prevent moisture intrusion. For Chicago homes, we recommend color-matched flashing—dark flashing for dark siding colors, light for light colors—so any visible flashing blends seamlessly with your home’s appearance.
HardieTrim® boards finish the look around windows, doors, corners, and fascia while providing crucial weatherproofing. And don’t forget flexible sealant for joints and transitions—but not just any caulk will do. James Hardie approves specific sealants that maintain flexibility through our freeze-thaw cycles while adhering properly to fiber cement.
When ordering materials, we typically calculate a 10% overage for waste, cuts, and damage allowance. For more complex homes with dormers, bay windows, or intricate architectural details, we might increase this to 15-20%. It’s always better to have a few extra boards than to halt your project waiting for additional materials to arrive.
“One tip we share with all our clients,” says our inventory manager, “is to remove boards from across the pallet rather than down a single stack. This subtle technique helps avoid repeating texture patterns and creates a more natural-looking finished installation.”
Need help determining exact quantities for your Chicago home? Our team at Perfect Windows & Siding offers Siding Installation Near Me with free, detailed material estimates based on your home’s specific measurements.
Hardie Board Siding Installation: Step-by-Step Process
The moment has arrived to transform your home’s exterior! Let’s walk through the actual Hardie board siding installation process together. While we always recommend professional installation to maintain your warranty coverage, understanding these steps helps you evaluate contractor work and make informed decisions about your project.
Step 1: Install Starter Strip
The foundation of a successful installation begins with a perfectly level starter strip. We attach a 1¼” strip along the bottom of your wall, making sure to maintain at least 6″ clearance above grade to prevent moisture issues. This small piece sets the stage for everything that follows, so our crews take extra time to ensure it’s perfectly level and secured with fasteners every 16″ on center.
Step 2: Install Trim Components
Next comes the framing elements that give your home personality. We carefully apply HardieTrim® boards around windows, doors, and corners, leaving a precise ⅛” gap between trim and where siding will go to allow for proper caulking later. Many homeowners don’t realize that these trim details dramatically improve curb appeal—they’re like the perfect frame for a beautiful picture.
Step 3: Begin Siding Installation
With prep work complete, we place the first course of siding atop the starter strip, ensuring boards are perfectly level and aligned. For traditional HardiePlank® lap siding, each plank overlaps the one below by at least 1¼”. We maintain a minimum ¼” clearance at all trim edges to allow for proper caulking and seasonal expansion.
“The first course sets the tone for the entire wall,” explains our installation supervisor. “Get this right, and everything else follows naturally.”
Step 4: Fastening Technique
The secret to a long-lasting installation lies in proper fastening. We use blind nailing wherever possible, driving nails through the top of each plank so the next course covers the fasteners. Each nail is placed 1″ from the top edge and no closer than ⅜” from plank ends to prevent edge cracking. Following James Hardie’s specifications, we typically space fasteners 24″ apart when working with 16″ stud spacing, ensuring each nail penetrates at least 1¼” into structural framing for maximum hold.
Step 5: Joint Treatment
For homes with walls longer than 12 feet (which is most Chicago-area homes), managing joints properly becomes critical. We stagger butt joints at least two stud bays apart and install 6″ wide joint flashing behind each joint, overlapping the course below by 1″. The trick is achieving moderate contact at these butt joints—not too tight, which can cause buckling, and not too loose, which looks unprofessional.
Step 6: Continue Up the Wall
Working methodically upward, we maintain level courses and proper overlaps throughout. Our crews use a story pole (a marked reference board) to ensure consistent exposure on every wall. When we encounter obstacles like electrical boxes or vents, we carefully cut around them while maintaining ¼” clearance for proper sealing.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
The final steps transform a good installation into a great one. We apply approved sealant to all gaps and joints, touch up nail heads with color-matched paint, and immediately remove any protective film from factory-finished siding. These details might seem small, but they dramatically impact both appearance and weather resistance.
“The key to professional-looking Hardie board siding installation is patience and precision,” says our lead installer. “Rushing leads to misaligned courses and visible mistakes that compromise both appearance and performance.”
Hardie Board Siding Installation Timeline
Wondering how long your project will take? Here’s a realistic timeline for Chicagoland homeowners:
Material delivery and acclimation typically takes 1-2 days, as materials need to be stored flat and kept dry. Removing existing siding requires 1-3 days depending on your home’s size and current materials. Preparation and water-resistive barrier installation adds another 1-2 days, followed by trim installation (1-2 days) and the actual siding installation (3-7 days for an average home). If you’ve chosen field-painted boards, caulking and painting add 1-2 days, with a final day for thorough cleanup.
All told, a complete Hardie board siding installation typically takes 1-2 weeks with our professional crews, weather permitting. Chicago’s unpredictable climate can impact this timeline, especially during winter or rainy periods.
“We build weather contingencies into our project schedules,” explains our project coordinator with a smile. “Fiber cement shouldn’t be installed in temperatures below 40°F or during heavy precipitation, so we plan accordingly for Chicagoland’s seasonal mood swings.”
Hardie Board Siding Installation Common Mistakes
Even experienced contractors can make errors during installation. Here are the five most common mistakes we’ve observed over our 25 years in business:
Insufficient clearance is perhaps the most critical error. Failing to maintain proper distance from grade, rooflines, or horizontal surfaces inevitably leads to moisture issues. Our teams strictly adhere to James Hardie’s clearance requirements—6″ above grade and 1-2″ above roof lines and decks.
Improper fastening through using the wrong nails or incorrect nailing patterns can void warranties and compromise performance. Our crews use only approved fasteners and follow manufacturer-specified patterns to ensure lasting results.
Inadequate joint treatment by skipping joint flashing or improper butt joint spacing creates pathways for water intrusion. We ensure every joint is properly flashed and spaced to protect your home’s structure.
Poor cutting technique using rough cuts or improper tools creates jagged edges and excessive dust. Our specialized cutting tools with dust extraction systems deliver clean, precise cuts every time.
Missing structural support by fastening to sheathing alone without hitting studs severely compromises the installation. We carefully mark all stud locations and ensure proper structural attachment for maximum wind resistance.
“Random staggering can be the most aesthetically pleasing,” advises our installation supervisor, “but a progressive stagger pattern makes the job easier and faster without an overtly noticeable pattern.” This approach efficiently uses cut-offs and ensures butt joints land on studs.
DIY vs Pro Decision Matrix
Should you install Hardie siding yourself or hire professionals? Consider these important factors:
DIY installations face significant challenges. Fiber cement is surprisingly heavy (2.3 lbs per square foot) and difficult to handle alone. You’ll need specialized cutting tools and safety equipment that can be expensive for one-time use. OSHA regulations for silica dust must be followed to protect your health, and improper installation may void the valuable 30-year warranty. Technical details like flashing integration require experience to get right.
Professional installation offers clear advantages. You’ll maintain full warranty protection (James Hardie specifically recommends certified installers), save significant time (1-2 weeks versus potentially months for DIY), and ensure compliance with safety regulations regarding silica dust. Professionals also have access to specialized tools and techniques, and our experienced crews are familiar with Chicago building codes and climate requirements.
“While we appreciate the DIY spirit, Hardie board siding installation is one project where professional experience truly makes a difference,” notes our customer service representative. “Many homeowners who start this project themselves end up calling us to finish it.”
For those in Chicagoland seeking peace of mind, Perfect Windows & Siding offers free consultations to discuss your specific project needs and timeline. We’d be happy to show you examples of our work and explain how our installation process can deliver lasting results for your home.
Maintenance, Warranty & Money-Saving Tips
One of the most refreshing things about investing in Hardie board siding installation is the freedom from constant upkeep. Unlike wood that demands regular sanding and painting, or vinyl that can crack in Chicago’s cold winters, fiber cement siding lets you reclaim your weekends.
“My customers are always surprised when I tell them how little maintenance their new siding will need,” says Voytek from Perfect Windows & Siding. “Many have spent years painting and repairing wood siding, so the simplicity of Hardie maintenance feels almost too good to be true.”
The annual maintenance routine is wonderfully straightforward: simply give your siding a gentle rinse with a garden hose to remove accumulated dirt and pollen. For stubborn spots, you can use a soft brush with mild detergent and water. When washing, always keep pressure below 1500 psi to avoid damaging the finish, working from top to bottom in a smooth, consistent pattern.
Every spring, take a quick walk around your home to check for any issues. Look for loose caulking around windows and doors, ensure all seams remain properly sealed, and inspect for any damage from winter storms or accidental impacts. These annual inspections catch small problems before they become costly repairs.
The real maintenance magic happens in the long term. While wood siding typically needs repainting every 3-5 years, Hardie’s field-painted siding generally requires repainting only every 10-15 years. If you’ve opted for ColorPlus® Technology, that timeline stretches even further thanks to its factory-applied finish with superior adhesion and UV resistance.
“During installation, we always remind homeowners to keep the protective laminate slip sheet in place while handling the boards, removing it only after installation,” explains our senior installer. “This simple step prevents surface scratches that might later require touch-ups.”
Your 30-year limited transferable warranty is a valuable asset, but like any warranty, it requires proper care to remain valid. Keep your installation documentation in a safe place, and follow James Hardie’s maintenance guidelines. Should you ever sell your home, this transferable warranty becomes a compelling selling point that adds real value to your property.
Cost-Saving Strategies for Homeowners
While Hardie board siding installation represents a premium investment, there are several clever ways to manage costs without compromising quality.
Timing is everything when scheduling your siding project. The winter months—November through January—often represent a slower season for contractors in Chicago. Many installation teams offer more competitive pricing during these periods to keep their crews working. While weather considerations are important, experienced installers like our team at Perfect Windows & Siding have developed techniques to work efficiently even in colder weather.
Material selection offers another opportunity for savings. While the ColorPlus® Technology provides superior finish durability, selecting primed boards with field-applied paint can reduce initial costs. You’re essentially deferring some of the expense to a later date when you’ll need to paint, which makes the project more affordable upfront.
For homeowners with budget constraints, a phased installation approach makes perfect sense. Start with the most visible elevations—typically the front façade and sides visible from the street—to maximize curb appeal impact. Rear elevations can be completed in a subsequent phase when finances allow.
When collecting quotes, be thorough but beware of outliers. A bid significantly lower than others often indicates corners being cut, whether in material quality, proper flashing, or installation techniques. At Perfect Windows & Siding, we believe in transparent pricing that accounts for every aspect of a proper installation.
“We’ve seen homeowners try to save money by purchasing materials directly,” notes our purchasing manager, “but they’re often surprised to learn that contractors like us can access bulk discounts that aren’t available to individual buyers. We’re happy to pass these savings directly to our Chicago customers.”
For qualified homeowners throughout Des Plaines and greater Chicagoland, we offer flexible financing options that make premium siding more accessible through manageable monthly payments. This approach allows you to enjoy the benefits of superior siding immediately while spreading the investment over time.
Quick Inspection & Repair Guide
Even with Hardie’s exceptional durability, life happens. A thrown baseball, a wayward lawnmower stone, or extreme weather can occasionally cause damage. Knowing how to address these issues quickly helps maintain your home’s protection and appearance.
For small chips or cracks, the repair process is straightforward. Begin by cleaning the damaged area with mild soap and water, then allow it to dry completely. Apply color-matched touch-up paint (available from James Hardie or your installer) with a small brush, building up thin layers rather than one thick coat. A second application may be necessary after the first has dried completely.
Larger damage presents more complexity but remains manageable. When a section needs replacement, it’s best to remove the damaged board by cutting along stud lines. Install fresh flashing behind the seams of the replacement piece, secure it with appropriate fasteners, and finish by caulking the edges and applying touch-up paint to match.
“I always recommend that homeowners keep a few extra pieces stored in a dry location after their Hardie board siding installation,” suggests our repair specialist. “Having matching material on hand makes future repairs much simpler, especially if your particular style or color is discontinued years later.”
If you suspect damage might qualify for warranty coverage, don’t hesitate to contact James Hardie’s warranty department directly. Alternatively, our team at Perfect Windows & Siding can help steer the claim process for our installation customers, providing documentation and support throughout.
With minimal maintenance requirements, strong warranty protection, and straightforward repair options, Hardie board siding truly delivers on its promise of long-term value and peace of mind. When you’re ready to transform your home’s exterior with this remarkable material, our family-owned team is here to help with expertise earned through countless successful installations throughout Chicagoland.
Conclusion & Next Steps
Hardie board siding installation truly stands as one of the wisest investments you can make in your home’s exterior. The exceptional durability, design flexibility, and comprehensive warranty coverage explain why fiber cement siding continues to be the premier choice for discerning homeowners.
Whether you’re constructing a new residence in Chicago or updating your current Des Plaines home, Hardie siding delivers that perfect balance of stunning aesthetics and long-term performance. Its remarkable resistance to Illinois’ challenging weather patterns—from humid summers to freezing winters—makes it particularly well-suited for Chicagoland properties.
At Perfect Windows & Siding, we’ve built our reputation by delivering exceptional Hardie board siding installation throughout Chicago and neighboring communities. As a family-owned business, we understand that your home represents both a significant financial investment and a deeply personal one—deserving nothing less than premium materials and expert craftsmanship.
Our dedication to excellence shines through in everything we do. We employ only certified, factory-trained installers who understand the nuances of proper installation. We stand behind our work with a lifetime workmanship warranty that complements James Hardie’s product coverage. Our estimates are always transparent and itemized, so you know exactly what you’re paying for. And our installation process reflects our meticulous attention to detail, from the first measurement to our thorough cleanup protocol.
“When you choose Hardie siding, you’re not just upgrading your house—you’re investing in decades of peace of mind,” explains our founder. “With proper installation, this could very well be the last siding you’ll ever need to purchase for your home.”
Ready to transform your home’s exterior with the industry’s leading siding product? Contact Perfect Windows & Siding today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our experienced team will guide you through each step of the process, from selecting the perfect style and color to the final inspection, ensuring results that not only meet but exceed your expectations.
Your home deserves the perfect blend of protection and beauty that only professionally installed Hardie board siding can provide. When you’re ready to take that step, we’re here to make the process smooth, straightforward, and satisfying from start to finish.