With Kansas City homes representing a significant investment for their owners, protecting that investment is a top priority, and fiber cement siding is one of the most protective and effective materials to be developed recently. It is, without a doubt, one of the best possible materials for KC-area home siding. We’re going to look at many of the reasons why it’s ideal, but we’re also going to dig into a few of the downsides so that you have both sides.
Pros Of Fiber Cement Siding
It Looks Amazing
James Hardie siding is highly customizable and can be tailored to the look you want. Not only are there different styles you can pick from, to match your home’s architecture, but you can choose from an incredibly wide range of colors as well. This makes it much easier to customize than many other materials.
Durable
One of the biggest benefits of fiber cement siding like Hardie is that it can stand up to just about anything that Mother Nature can throw at it. Our periodic downpours are easily tolerated, as are the seasonal snow and ice that happen. It can even shake off significant hail impact without permanent damage. Additionally, it’s nearly impervious to rot, warping or swelling, and similar damage that occurs with natural materials.
Baked-On Finish
The wide range of colors that homeowners can choose from can be applied and baked on at the factory, providing color and finish that can last for decades. This finish also contributes to the lower maintenance requirement of the material.
Long-Lasting
James Hardie is one of the longest-lasting materials that homeowners can get in its price class. Being only slightly more costly than vinyl, this provides incredible value over the life of the siding. It resists pests and fires better than nearly any other material, and the James Hardie company provides a warranty on the material for 30 years.
Low Maintenance
The lack of nearly any maintenance is one of the major reasons that KC homeowners are switching to fiber cement siding. Once installed, Jamies Hardie siding needs almost zero maintenance, besides periodic cleaning. This can be done with a conventional garden hose and soft bristle brush, perhaps once or twice per year.
Warranty
James Hardie siding comes with a 30-year, non-prorated warranty. This warranty is also fully-transferable, making it perfect for installing before putting a home on the market.
Cons Of Fiber Cement Siding
More Costly Than Vinyl
The biggest drawback of getting fiber cement siding that people often cite is that it is more costly than vinyl. While this is true, with vinyl being the absolute cheapest siding material that can be found in most cases, this is also somewhat of a benefit. Considering the benefits you get, and the marginal increase in cost, many homeowners find it an acceptable compromise.
Hardie Needs A Well-Trained Installation Contractor
To make sure your Hardie siding is installed correctly, and in alignment with the warranty conditions, having a James Hardie-certified installer is essential. Before committing to a contractor, make sure they are a qualified Hardie installer.
Fairway Exteriors Can Be Your Trusted James Hardie Installer
For homes in the Kansas City area, there is no better siding option than fiber cement. Even with a few drawbacks, the benefits and protection provided by James Hardie are nearly unbeatable. For more information, or to schedule your free estimate today, reach out to Fairway and speak with one of our local siding experts.
