Hardie board is a popular siding material, often composed of cement and cellulose fibers, that is used to clad the exterior walls of a home or other building. Though it is durable and attractive, there are a few cons or disadvantages to consider before selecting Hardie board for a siding project.
One major con of Hardie board is its cost. Hardie board is generally priced higher than other siding materials, such as vinyl and aluminum, making it less budget-friendly for those on a tight budget.
The cost can also grow when factoring in installation fees, which can also be significantly higher than other siding materials.
Durability is another con of Hardie board, or rather, its lack thereof. Hardie board is resistant to rot, pest infestation, and other weather-related damage, but it is not immune. Over the years, Hardie board has been known to develop problems such as cracks, which can occur due to moisture, temperature shifts, and physical impact.
In some cases, Hardie board may even require repairs or replacements.
The weight of Hardie board can also be a disadvantage, especially for structures that are not sufficiently reinforced to support the extra load. In such cases, an extra-substantial building foundation may be required, which can add to the overall cost and time commitment of the project.
Lastly, Hardie board is not ideal for do-it-yourself projects due to the special tools and techniques required to install it properly. Homeowners looking to undertake a Hardie board project without professional help should expect a significant level of difficulty.
Is Hardie plank more expensive than wood?
Hardie Plank siding is considered to be more expensive than wood, depending on the type of wood you are comparing it to. Generally, wood siding can cost anywhere from $2 to $8 per square foot, while Hardie Plank will cost $6 to $12 per sq. ft.
, with additional costs for installation that can bring the cost up even higher. While the initial cost may be higher for Hardie Plank, it does have some advantages over wood, such as a longer lifespan, being more durable and less prone to fire, pest damage, rot, and other forms of deterioration.
Many homeowners also prefer the modern look of Hardie Plank, which many believe makes the upfront cost a worthwhile investment.
How long does Hardie board last?
Hardie board is one of the most durable siding materials available, with an expected lifespan of 50 years or more. The fiber-cement panels are moisture resistant, termite resistant, and non-combustible, making them a reliable choice for long-term durability and protection.
ColorPlus technology is featured in many of the company’s products, helping to keep the color of the siding vibrant and resistant to fading over time. The panels are also very low-maintenance, provided they’re installed properly, meaning they require minimal upkeep to maintain their condition.
Lastly, most James Hardie products feature a 30-year transferable warranty for added peace of mind. So, with proper installation, maintenance, and protection, Hardie board siding can easily last for up to 50 years or longer.
Does Hardie board increase value of home?
Yes, Hardie board can add value to your home. Hardie board is the brand name for a type of fiber cement siding. It is strong, water-resistant, and more attractive than many other types of siding materials.
Because it is so durable, it can increase the lifespan of your home and help it to better withstand major weather events. Potential buyers may view Hardie board as a positive sign of quality, which can also increase your home’s value.
Hardie board is also low-maintenance and fire resistant, which can further contribute to its value and make it an appealing option for buyers.
Can termites eat hardiplank?
No, termites typically do not eat hardiplank. Hardiplank is a type of fibre cement, which is not edible for termites. Therefore, termites typically do not consume hardiplank, although they may try to colonize the area beneath it.
It is important to keep termites away from hardiplank by regularly checking the area around and beneath it for signs of infestation. Some prevention techniques include using pressure treated lumber, sealing all cracks, caulking all openings and keeping gutters clean.
Additionally, it is important to seek professional pest control if signs of infestation are found.
Can you power wash Hardie board?
Yes, you can power wash Hardie board. Hardie board, also known as HardiePlank or HardiePanel, is a durable form of siding made out of cement and cellulose fibers. It is a popular option due to its resistance to both fire and rot.
Additionally, it requires very little maintenance and can last up to 30 years.
Power washing your Hardie board is one of the best ways to keep it looking fresh and clean. Doing so regularly can even extend the lifespan of the material. Before starting, you should always consult the manufacturer’s instructions for your particular siding type.
In general, use a low-pressure clean with a narrow nozzle, and be sure to start at the bottom and work your way up. You should also stay at least 10 inches away from the siding and make sure no more than 500 PSI of pressure is used.
When you are done power washing your Hardie board, you should inspect it for any damage or loose boards. If you find any, make sure to replace them as soon as possible. Additionally, remember to check the surrounding area for any signs of animal or plant damage.
Overall, Hardie board is an excellent material choice for siding and can be easily maintained with regular power washes. However, always make sure to follow all safety protocols and consult the manufacturer’s recommendations before beginning.
How often do you have to repaint Hardie board?
The frequency of how often Hardie board needs to be repainted depends largely on the climate of the location and the degree of exposure to direct sunlight, weather and other elements. If Hardie board is well maintained, recoating with a top coat of paint should be done every 8-10 years.
However, if the board is placed in an area with intense direct sunlight, high humidity, or harsher climates, the board will likely need to be recoated more frequently, up to every 5 years. Additionally, if the first coat of paint was not of a high quality, it may need to be repainted sooner due to wear and tear from the effects of the weather.
Properly maintaining Hardie board is important as it will ensure a longer life and a more aesthetically pleasing finish. For areas with harsh weather conditions, it is important to invest in a good quality of paint and consult with a local paint supplier for more specific advice about painting cycles.
What causes Hardie board to crack?
Hardie board, a type of siding material made from fiber cement, can crack due to a variety of reasons. Excessive moisture can cause Hardie board to buckle and thus lead to cracking, as the material will expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity levels.
Less common factors that can cause cracking include problems with the installation of the Hardie board, such as when it has been nailed too tightly, leading to shrinking and cracking. Sharp impacts, such as those from objects being thrown at the Hardie board, can also cause cracks to form.
Finally, Hardie board can be particularly prone to cracking if it is exposed to considerable temperature changes, such as swings of more than 40 degrees Fahrenheit, as the material may not have time to adjust to the new temperatures and expand or contract too quickly.
Is Hardie board hard to maintain?
No, Hardie board is not hard to maintain. This siding material is resistant to damage from moisture, termites, and other elements, making it relatively low maintenance compared to other siding materials.
While it may require occasional cleaning due to dirt and grime, Hardie board siding is more durable than other siding materials and can last for decades with minimal maintenance. Additionally, unlike wooden siding, Hardie board will not require painting or staining for protection.
It can also be pressure washed using a mild detergent and a low-pressure setting. With proper installation, Hardie board siding should stay intact with no additional maintenance for many years.
What are the disadvantages of fiber cement siding?
Fiber cement siding has some potential downsides when compared to other siding materials. It is typically more expensive than other options, such as vinyl or aluminum siding, and is also more labor intensive to install, which can result in higher installation costs.
Additionally, it requires more maintenance than other siding materials, as it should be painted and stained every few years to keep it looking its best. In terms of durability, while fiber cement is more resilient to the elements than regular wood siding, it may not be able to withstand extreme weather conditions as well as some other materials.
Additionally, the dust created during cutting must be handled properly, as it can cause health problems if not mitigated.
What is the difference between Hardie board and cement board?
Hardie board and cement board are both materials made with cement that are used in certain applications when constructing buildings, but they have some distinct differences. Hardie board is more weather resistant and more durable than cement board.
It is also more aesthetically pleasing and is available in a variety of colors and textures. Additionally, Hardie board is made using a specially formulated cement that is composed of sand, cellulose fibers, and Portland cement.
This formula gives Hardie board a much higher level of water and fire resistance than traditional cement board.
Cement board, on the other hand, is composed of Portland cement, mineral aggregate, glass fibers and bonding agents. This composition results in cement board having good moisture resistance but can be prone to chipping and fracturing due to low strength levels compared to Hardie board.
Cement board is not available in the variety of colors and textures like Hardie board and thus, is not as aesthetically pleasing. Additionally, cement board is not as weather-resistant as Hardie board is and needs to be sealed and finished in order to remain waterproof.