What Hardie plank is valued for is its performance in real weather. In Chicago, siding deals with heavy rain, lake-effect snow, high humidity, and wide swings in temperature. Those conditions wear out weaker materials fast.
Hardie Plank holds its shape and keeps color longer. It adds curb appeal while cutting down on repainting and repairs. That steady performance makes it a practical choice for homes in the Chicago area.
What is Hardie Plank Siding?
Hardie Plank is fiber cement siding made to fix the common problems found in wood and vinyl. It does not rot. Insects do not eat it. It also provides fire resistance that other products lack.
The boards are formed from cement, sand, and cellulose fibers pressed together. That mix creates siding that can handle rain, wind, and freeze-thaw cycles. In Chicago, those conditions show up often. Hardie Plank lasts through them, keeps its color, and adds protection along with curb appeal.
Types of Hardie Plank Siding Products
James Hardie offers several styles to fit different homes. Here are the main options we recommend to clients:
HardiePlank Lap Siding
This is the most popular type. It runs horizontally and gives homes a classic, clean look.
Hardie Shingle Siding
Designed to look like cedar shingles without the maintenance. It works well for gables or full-house coverage.
HardiePanel Vertical Siding
Boards run up and down for a modern or farmhouse style. Often used with trim for added detail.
HardieTrim Boards
These finish corners, doors, and windows. They give siding a polished, professional look.
HardieSoffit Panels
Installed under eaves to protect roof overhangs and improve ventilation.
Comparing Hardie Plank to Other Options
Vinyl siding draws people in because the upfront price is lower. The issue shows up later. With time in the sun and the weather, vinyl can crack, it can warp, and it can lose its color. Engineered wood looks more natural, which is the appeal, but it does not stay that way without extra care. Paint and sealant are needed, and even then, it still takes more work than fiber cement.
Hardie Plank reacts differently in Chicago conditions. Storms roll through, humidity stays high in the summer, and the winters bring freeze and thaw cycles that break down weaker products. Hardie Plank keeps its shape, holds the finish, and does not wear out as fast. The price to start is higher, but over the year, the siding does not demand as much repair or replacement. That is where the real value comes in.
The Benefits of Installing Hardie Plank Siding
Hardie Plank siding offers clear advantages that matter to homeowners:
- Weather resistance – stands up to rain, hail, and humidity
- Low maintenance – does not need frequent painting or repairs
- ColorPlus® finish – factory-applied coating resists fading
- Fire resistance – safer than wood or vinyl
- Warranty – James Hardie provides long-term coverage, often up to 30 years
These benefits give homeowners peace of mind and reduce costs over the life of the siding.
The Cost of Hardie Plank Siding
The cost to put in Hardie Plank usually runs from $8 to $14 per square foot. That number is not fixed. It depends on the size of the house, the style of siding picked, and whether trim or soffits are part of the job. Each of those adds labor and materials. Two homes with the same square footage can come out at very different totals once those details are added in.
Vinyl is usually the cheaper bid at first. The trade-off is that it wears out faster and is replaced sooner. Hardie Plank takes more effort during the install, but once it is on, it lasts. The upkeep stays low, and that is where the savings show up. When we review costs, we walk through both numbers, the first check you write and the years of service that follow.
How James Hardie Makes Its Siding
James Hardie uses a blend of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers to create boards that are strong but workable. The company also produces siding lines designed for specific climates. Here in Chicago, the HZ5 product line is recommended because it resists freezing, thawing, and moisture. Every product goes through quality testing, so homeowners know they are getting consistent results.
Professional Installation of Hardie Plank Siding
Hardie Plank performs best when it is installed correctly. That’s why we recommend hiring a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor. Proper spacing, sealing, and fastening make the difference between siding that lasts and siding that fails early.
Our team follows manufacturer guidelines to protect the warranty and ensure the siding looks and performs as it should. Trying to install fiber cement siding without training can lead to cracks, water leaks, or wasted material. A professional installation saves time, protects your investment, and gives you peace of mind.
FAQs About Hardie Plank Siding
How long does Hardie Plank last?
With proper installation and care, it can last 30 to 50 years.
Does it increase home value?
Yes. Buyers recognize Hardie siding as a premium upgrade.
Can it be painted?
Yes. It holds paint longer than wood, but many homeowners prefer the ColorPlus finish.
Is it worth the cost?
Yes. The upfront price is higher, but it lasts longer and needs less upkeep. That balance makes it worth it for most homes.
Final Thoughts
Hardie Plank siding lasts, looks good, and carries a solid warranty. In Chicago, the weather is rough, and this product handles it year after year. It’s one of the few options we stand behind without hesitation.
If siding is on your list, we can show real samples, go over pricing, and explain the install from start to finish. Call All Star Window Siding for a free consultation and decide if Hardie Plank is the right fit for your home.
