How Long Does HardiePlank Last?

When it comes to choosing a material for your exterior remodel, you should be looking for a product with great longevity. Investing in new siding for your Chicagoland home means doing some research into which products are high-quality and which products will hold up for years to come. As your local exterior remodeling experts, we recommend that our customers go with HardiePlank, the industry’s favorite siding solution manufactured by James Hardie. Not only is this a smart investment for longevity and durability, it also comes with a 30-year non-prorated, transferable warranty! 

Interested in learning more about HardiePlank’s longevity? We’re broken it down for you below. 

Why Is HardiePlank So Durable?

Strong Fiber Cement

As the name suggests, fiber cement siding is in fact made in part from cement. This is strengthened by sand and cellulose to fortify the board, creating a unique composition. HardiePlank stands up against moisture, pests, fire, cracking, and other common siding issues well-known to homeowners with vinyl siding.

In comparison to vinyl siding, HardiePlank is also denser and thicker. With an average thickness of only .03”, vinyl siding isn’t as hearty with a hollow underside. HardiePlank is half an inch thick and is also completely solid. With this sturdy and reliable make up, James Hardie Siding is known for its ability to withstand the harsh Chicago weather year round.

How Long Does HardiePlank Actually Last?

Because of this hefty fiber cement composition, HardiePlank regularly outlasts brick or stone home exteriors. If something were to happen down the road, James Hardie is proud to offer their industry-leading warranty that unlike other manufacturers, doesn’t decrease coverage over time. That means you can rest easy knowing you’re covered no matter what happens for decades to come. 

An investment in HardiePlank is a strong investment for your home’s value and for your peace of mind. Who wouldn’t want to have the best protection on their new siding for 30 years?

How Does HardiePlank Last in Chicago Weather?

We know that the weather in Naperville, La Grande, Glenview and surrounding areas can be brutal in the winter, so it’s crucial to make sure the siding solution you choose for your home can withstand all that mother nature throws at Chicagoland. The weather can be tough, but HardiePlank is tougher.

One of the unique factors that makes HardiePlank so durable and such a great option for our area is the Hardie Zone technology that James Hardie products are engineered with. Depending on the region, HardiePlank is designed specifically for the elements that homes will face. Years of thorough testing has produced a range of products that are tailored perfectly to our part of the country, or what James Hardie calls, HZ5. 

No matter the freezing temperatures, blanketing snow, or dangerous ice, your HZ5 HardiePlank will hold up and protect your home for decades. Another bit of good news for homeowners who choose to go with James Hardie Siding is that their fiber cement products are not only durable and weather-resistant, but also very low maintenance. 

Extend the Life of Your HardiePlank: Our Tips and Tricks

While there is an amazing 30-year warranty, there are some tips and tricks that we tell our customers to use if they want to keep their home’s exterior not only functional but also looking its best. Because of the low maintenance required to keep it looking great, there are just a few tips that will help you keep your siding look brand new, even decades down the road! 

Take It Easy

It might look satisfying to see a home’s exterior cleaned by a power washer, but we promise it’s not very fun to do yourself. Luckily, HardiePlank only requires a low pressure garden hose to rinse off any dirt, debris, or pollen depending on the time of year. If you’re looking for a frequency to wash off your home’s HardiePlank, try just once or twice a year. Sounds pretty great, doesn’t it?

Spot Treatment

As you’re rinsing off your siding, you might notice small mildew stains on certain parts of your home that tend to stay moist. It’s as easy as a gentle swipe of a household cleaner with a cloth or paper towel. If it seems to be a bit more stubborn, simply allow the cleaning solution to sit on the spot for five or so minutes before scrubbing with a soft-bristled brush. 

Keep an Eye Out

Another way to ensure that your HardiePlank continues to protect your home is to do occasional visual inspections. By walking around your home and checking for gaps or cracks in the caulking or siding itself will allow you to address minor issues before they become bigger problems. It’s also important to note that with proper installation, these issues will be less likely to occur, so it’s crucial that you have a qualified contractor perform the project. Luckily, we’re recognized by James Hardie as the top Preferred Contractor in the Chicago area!

Choose SmardBuild for Your HardiePlank Project

As your local Chicagoland siding experts, we’re ready to help you make a decision on the best exterior siding solution for your specific home. We’re proud to offer free quotes and we make it easy to schedule a consultation by phone or by filling out a form here on our website. 

Still have questions about HardiePlank or other siding options? We’d love to answer them for you! Get in touch with us and get one step closer to the remodel you’ve been dreaming of.