Brick and stone homes have undeniable charm, but what if you want a modern, low-maintenance upgrade? Many homeowners looking for a fresh, stylish exterior turn to James Hardie siding. But can it be installed over brick or stone?

The short answer: it’s possible, but not always the best idea. While James Hardie siding offers exceptional durability, beauty, and energy efficiency, installing it over brick or stone comes with unique challenges—higher costs, moisture concerns, and potential aesthetic issues.

Before you make a decision, let’s break down what you need to know about installing James Hardie siding on brick or stone, including the best approach for a flawless, long-lasting result.

Why Homeowners Consider Installing James Hardie Siding Over Brick or Stone

We often work with homeowners who want to upgrade the look of their homes. In some cases, they already have brick or stone exteriors but want the modern, clean look of James Hardie siding. The reasons for this are straightforward:

1. Aesthetic Upgrade: James Hardie siding offers a sleek, contemporary appearance that many brick or stone homes lack.
2. Color Versatility: With James Hardie’s ColorPlus® Technology, homeowners can choose from a wide range of long-lasting colors.
3. Increased Energy Efficiency: A properly installed siding system can improve insulation and lower energy costs.

However, before making the switch, it’s important to understand the installation process and potential challenges.

Can James Hardie Siding Be Installed Directly Over Brick or Stone?

Technically, yes, James Hardie siding can be installed over brick. However, we do not recommend it for several reasons:

1. High Cost: Installing siding directly over brick is significantly more expensive than removing the brick first. This is because you need to add furring strips and extra layers to create a flat surface for the siding. This process increases labor and material costs.
2. Increased Wall Thickness: By adding layers over the brick, you end up increasing the wall thickness by 1.5 to 2 inches. This results in recessed windows that can look awkward and may impact the overall aesthetic of your home. The increased thickness can also complicate moisture management and lead to potential water issues down the line.
3. Moisture Concerns: One of the primary reasons we don’t recommend installing James Hardie siding over brick is moisture management. When siding is installed over brick, the extra layers can create gaps where water might accumulate, increasing the risk of leaks and long-term damage.

Our Recommended Approach: Removing the Brick or Stone First

Rather than installing Hardie siding directly over brick or stone, we recommend removing the existing material first. This approach ensures a smoother, cleaner installation and helps us maintain the long-term integrity of your home. Here’s what the process typically involves:

1. Demolition: We carefully remove the existing brick or stone, ensuring minimal disruption to your home’s structure.
2. Substrate Inspection: Once the old material is removed, we inspect the substrate to ensure it’s in good condition. If any repairs are needed, we handle them before proceeding.
3. Siding Installation: After preparing the surface, we install James Hardie siding just as we would on any other home. This ensures a flush, seamless look and optimal moisture management.

By taking these steps, we eliminate the risks associated with adding extra layers and ensure a better, longer-lasting result.

Key Reasons to Remove Brick or Stone Before Installing Hardie Siding

Here’s a quick recap of why removing the existing material is the better approach:

1. Lower Cost: Removing brick is generally more cost-effective than building over it.
2. Better Aesthetic: Without the added wall thickness, your windows will remain flush with the siding, maintaining the original look of your home.
3. Improved Moisture Management: A flush installation reduces the risk of leaks and water damage, ensuring your home stays protected for years to come.

What You Don’t Have to Worry About

If you’re considering James Hardie siding but are concerned about the prep work involved, don’t be. We handle everything—from removing the old material to inspecting and preparing the substrate. You won’t need to lift a finger; we take care of the entire process to ensure your home looks beautiful and functions perfectly.

In Summary

While it is possible to install James Hardie siding over brick or stone, we don’t recommend it due to the high costs, potential moisture issues, and aesthetic concerns. Instead, removing the existing brick or stone ensures a smoother installation, better appearance, and long-lasting performance.

If you’re ready to transform your home with James Hardie siding, contact us today. We’ll walk you through the entire process and ensure your home gets the upgrade it deserves.