More and more homeowners are asking us whether they can mix James Hardie siding with other materials to achieve a custom look. The answer is a resounding yes! In fact, mixing James Hardie siding with stone, stucco, brick, or wood accents is one of the best ways to create a truly unique and high-end home exterior. In this blog, we’ll cover how to combine these materials for maximum impact and what you need to consider before starting your project to ensure a smooth process.

Why Homeowners Want to Mix Materials

Many homeowners love the durability, low maintenance, and classic look of James Hardie siding. However, they also want to incorporate different textures, like wood or stone, to add variety and visual interest. You’ve probably noticed that some of the most beautiful homes on platforms like Instagram or Zillow don’t just rely on a single exterior material. Instead, they feature a carefully curated mix of materials for a modern and sophisticated look.

Popular Combinations We Work With

1. James Hardie Siding and Stone: Combining James Hardie siding with stone can give your home a rustic yet refined feel. Stone accents are often used around entryways or lower portions of the home’s exterior to add weight and texture.
2. James Hardie Siding and Stucco: Stucco is another common pairing with James Hardie siding, especially in homes with a Mediterranean or Southwestern style. While stucco provides a smooth, seamless surface, James Hardie siding offers a contrasting texture that enhances curb appeal.
3. James Hardie Siding and Brick: Brick and James Hardie siding can complement each other beautifully. While it might be tempting to install new siding over existing brick, we generally recommend removing the brick first to avoid potential issues with thickness around windows and doors.
4. James Hardie Siding and Wood Accents: Many homeowners want to keep wood accents for a warm, natural touch. Whether it’s using cedar for trim or installing wood-look products, we can help create a cohesive blend that works seamlessly with James Hardie siding.

Important Considerations When Mixing Materials

Before you start mixing James Hardie siding with other materials, there are a few key factors to keep in mind:

1. Material Removal

If your home currently has brick, stucco, or stone, you may need to remove those materials before installing James Hardie siding. Here’s why:

• Brick: While it’s technically possible to install siding over brick, it’s not the best option. Installing over brick requires specialized guns, screws, and nails, which can drive up costs significantly. Additionally, adding siding over brick increases the wall’s thickness, which can cause problems around windows and lead to water issues.
• Stucco: Stucco is notorious for trapping moisture, leading to wood rot and structural issues. We typically recommend removing stucco entirely, addressing any underlying damage, and then installing James Hardie siding.
• Stone: Like stucco, stone needs to be removed before siding installation. This ensures a proper fit and prevents issues with thickness and aesthetics.

2. Aesthetic Planning

Once the necessary materials have been removed, the next step is to focus on aesthetics. You want to choose materials and colors that complement each other. For example, pairing neutral-toned stone with darker James Hardie siding can create a striking contrast. We offer custom design consultations where we can show you high-end renderings of what your home will look like with different combinations.

3. Cost Implications

Mixing materials can come with additional costs, especially if removal and repair work is needed. Here’s what you should budget for:

• Removal Costs: Removing existing brick, stucco, or stone involves labor and disposal fees.
• Repair Costs: Once materials are removed, any underlying wood rot or structural issues will need to be addressed.
• Installation Costs: While James Hardie siding is an investment, it’s worth it for its durability and long-term performance.

4. Waterproofing and Airtight Sealing

Ensuring your home is properly sealed is critical when mixing materials. We always take extra care to waterproof areas where different materials meet, preventing potential water damage.

Benefits of Mixing James Hardie Siding with Other Materials

1. Enhanced Curb Appeal: The combination of different textures and colors creates a visually appealing exterior that stands out in the neighborhood.
2. Increased Home Value: High-quality exterior materials like James Hardie siding, combined with stone or wood accents, can significantly boost your home’s market value.
3. Customization: You get to design a unique exterior that reflects your personal style. Whether you prefer a modern look with sleek lines or a classic style with warm textures, mixing materials allows for endless possibilities.
4. Durability: James Hardie siding is known for its strength and weather resistance. Pairing it with other durable materials ensures your home will look great and perform well for years to come.

In Summary

Choosing to mix James Hardie siding with other materials is an excellent way to give your home a custom, high-end appearance. Whether you envision pairing it with stone, stucco, brick, or wood accents, we can help you create the perfect exterior. Remember, proper removal, waterproofing, and planning are key factors in ensuring a smooth and successful project.

If you’re ready to transform your home’s exterior with a well-thought-out mix of James Hardie siding and other materials, contact us today. We’ll guide you through the entire process, from selecting materials to final installation, making your dream home a reality.