When it comes to choosing siding for your home, you want something that is durable, beautiful, low-maintenance, and capable of withstanding the test of time.

While there are many siding options available, we strongly recommend James Hardie fiber cement siding over other choices like wood, vinyl, or aluminum. However, we know that it’s not the perfect solution for all situations and budgets. Here’s why James Hardie siding is a very solid investment for homeowners – and how you can decide if it’s the right material for your needs.

1. Superior Fire Resistance

Even if you don’t live in an area that’s prone to wildfires, it’s important to consider the risk of fire to protect your home and family. While no home is completely fire-proof, if you’re planning a siding project, comparing the fire resistance of different siding materials can bring peace of mind.

Unlike wood, which is highly combustible, or vinyl, which melts quickly in high heat, fiber cement siding is non-combustible, making it more flame resistant than any other siding material. Because Hardie products are noncombustible, they provide extra peace of mind—whether you live in a wildfire-prone region or want protection against common household fire risks like outdoor grills and bonfires.

Hardie products have been tested in controlled burn studies where they showed minimal damage after 10 minutes of direct flame exposure. While vinyl, cedar, and engineered wood allowed flames to enter the interior of the home.

2. Unmatched Durability

If you live in an area prone to extreme weather, investing in fiber cement siding means you’ll have peace of mind knowing your home’s exterior is built to last.

Fiber cement siding is engineered to withstand extreme weather conditions that can damage other siding materials. It can handle hurricane-force winds, heavy rain, hail, and even freezing temperatures without cracking or deteriorating.

Unless properly maintained with paint or sealant every 2-5 years, wood siding can swell or warp when exposed to moisture. Over time, the siding may not return to its original state and will eventually need to be replaced.

Some vinyl siding can be as thin as .35mm, making it more susceptible to damage from impact like hail. Because vinyl siding is installed in connecting grooves, repairing damage can mean a full replacement.

Vinyl siding offers plenty of advantages—it’s affordable, easy to maintain, weather-resistant, and comes in countless design options. It can crack or warp in extreme conditions, be damaged by pests and storms, and has a lower return on investment compared to premium materials. Environmental concerns and installation-related risks also warrant consideration.

While vinyl siding is often marketed as a cheaper alternative, that’s only true for lower-grade vinyl, typically used on mobile homes. Premium vinyl siding can actually cost more than James Hardie fiber cement siding, yet it lacks the durability, fire resistance, and long-term value that Hardie siding provides.

3. Low Maintenance with Lasting Color

One of the biggest advantages of fiber cement siding is its low-maintenance nature. Specifically, James Hardie ColorPlus® Technology means the color is baked into the siding, making it highly resistant to fading, chipping, and peeling.

Wood siding may have a classic look, but it requires frequent maintenance to keep it in good shape. Unlike other siding materials, wood needs to be stained or painted every few years to protect it from moisture, rot, and sun damage. This ongoing upkeep adds significant costs over time, making wood one of the most expensive siding options in the long run. Between labor, materials, and repeated maintenance, the total cost of wood siding often surpasses more durable, low-maintenance options like fiber cement or vinyl

Vinyl siding requires less maintenance than wood, but it comes with its own drawbacks. Over time, exposure to sunlight causes vinyl to fade, and unlike wood, it can’t be easily repainted or re-stained to refresh its look. In most cases, the only way to restore its appearance is to replace the siding entirely. This not only adds to long-term costs but also shortens the overall lifespan compared to more durable options like fiber cement. While vinyl may seem like a budget-friendly choice upfront, its tendency to fade and the need for full replacement make it less cost-effective in the long run.

Hardie siding maintains its vibrant color for years, saving homeowners time and money on upkeep. Although vinyl siding color is more resistant than wood, fading in some areas usually means a full replacement, and no one wants to spend tens of thousands of dollars to re-side their home just over color.

4. Increased Home Value

Replacing your old siding can increase its value by adding lifetime to its protection from the elements and updating its curb appeal. While its upfront cost can be more expensive than other options, investing in fiber cement siding can significantly boost your home’s resale value more than other kinds of siding.

According to the 2024 Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report, replacing your existing siding with fiber cement adds an average of $18,230 to your home's value. It represents an 88.4% return on the cost of your siding project.

From this same report, replacing your siding with vinyl only adds an average of $13,957 to your home’s value, representing 80.2% return on the cost of the project.

Many homebuyers recognize the benefits of this siding, and in some neighborhoods, homeowners’ associations (HOAs) only allow Hardie siding due to its superior quality and aesthetic appeal.

Having this premium siding on your home can make your property more desirable and potentially lead to a higher selling price.

5. Industry-Leading Warranty

James Hardie specifically backs its products with an industry-leading warranty that provides homeowners with confidence in their investment. Most of its siding products come with a 30-year, non-prorated warranty - something that many other siding manufacturers do not offer.

When compared to warranties for other siding types, James Hardie stands out as one of the most reliable choices since most companies offer prorated warranties that diminish over time.

6. Pest-Resistant Material

Although vinyl siding is termite-resistant, it is still vulnerable to damage from woodpeckers, which can easily penetrate the material and cause significant harm.

Unlike wood siding, which is a target for termites and woodpeckers, fiber-cement siding is unappealing to pests like termites and woodpeckers. This eliminates the risk of costly structural damage caused by infestations, making it an ideal choice for homeowners who want long-term protection for their home.

7. A More Sustainable Option

If sustainability is a priority for your home improvement projects, Hardie siding is an excellent option. Fiber-cement siding is a more eco-friendly choice because it is made from natural ingredients like cement, sand, and cellulose fibers.

Although there are other brands of fiber-cement who may or may not choose to take steps towards sustainability, James Hardie is transparent with their initiatives and is aiming to have zero manufacturing waste to landfill by the year 2035.

Is James Hardie Right for You?

When selecting siding for your home, it’s crucial to consider more than just the upfront cost. Durability, safety, maintenance, and long-term value should all play a role in your decision. James Hardie fiber cement siding outperforms other materials in every category, making it the smart choice for homeowners who want a beautiful, strong, and worry-free exterior.

If you're planning a siding upgrade, we highly recommend James Hardie fiber-cement siding. Contact us today to learn more about how this premium siding can enhance and protect your home for years to come.