James Hardie Frequently Asked Questions

Installation

Are there any problems with James Hardie Siding?

Problems with James Hardie siding typically occurs due to improper installation.  In a climate like St. Louis, freeze-thaw is the biggest killer of exterior siding products. If the product is not installed the correct way, water can get behind the siding.  During the winter months, the water behind the siding freezes in the morning and thaws during the afternoon. This constant expansion and contraction cause the composition of the siding to deteriorate and will lead to product failure. 

Proper installation is the key to the long-term performance of James Hardie siding.  Our team at Siding Express has the right training, equipment, and experience to deliver a James Hardie solution that will meet the manufacturer’s specifications and your high expectations. Read more about why James Hardie siding may be a good option for your home!

How hard is it to install James Hardie siding?
James Hardie is a difficult product to install well.  It takes well equipped, skilled carpenters with extensive experience and training, along with comprehensive knowledge of James Hardie’s 130-page installation manual to install the product the correct way. Installation guidelines need to be followed to a T, to guarantee your home is covered under warranty. 

One problem a lot of people run into while installing the siding is using the wrong equipment. Our crews use specialized equipment such as pump jacks and diamond-tipped circular saw blades. 

Another common problem is the lack of knowledge on how to deal with dust created during the cutting process and the proper product handling techniques. James Hardie is heavy and can break if it is handled wrong.  The lack of understanding on how to handle this weight leads to problems during the hanging process and poor installation.

Why should I have an elite preferred remodeler install my siding?
James Hardie has many requirements to obtain Elite Preferred statues. They include insurance requirements, adhering to installation best practices, and positive feedback from customer surveys. If you go with an Elite Preferred remodeler like Siding Express, you can feel confident knowing you are dealing with a reputable company with many years of excellent installation and customer service.  Click here to learn more about Elite Preferred remodelers.

How much does it cost to install James Hardie siding on your home?
The simple answer—it depends. Every house is different, and the only way we can determine the price of the investment is for one of our Design Consultations to come out and access your home.  A good point of reference, it is similar in price to premium vinyl siding. 

Does my existing siding need to be removed to install James Hardie siding?
In most cases, the answer is yes, your existing siding will need to be removed to install James Hardie siding.  James Hardie’s installation specifications require the product to be installed on a flat surface. If James Hardie siding is installed on an uneven surface, the warranty will be voided.

Regardless of the concerns with the warranty, it is generally best to remove the existing siding to address any underlining issues.  There could be unseen problems with rot and termites lurking behind your siding.  These problems need to be addressed or they will continue to get worse. Tearing off existing siding also affords the opportunity to apply a layer of HardieWrap, providing an extra layer of protection from the elements.

As a rule of thumb, all hardboard siding products need to be installed on a flat surface.  Vinyl siding can be installed over other siding products, but we don’t recommend it.

How long does James Hardie remodel usually take?
A typical full-siding remodel may take about 2 weeks, depending on the size and scope of the project.