Painting Hardie Plank & Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement is a very commonly used siding material for new homes in the Boston area.  It’s soared in popularity over the past decade because fiber cement siding is durable and well suited for the harsh New England weather to which we expose our exteriors.

What is fiber cement siding?

Fiber cement siding is often sold under Hardie board or Hardie Plank (made by James Hardie company.)  Because it absorbs less moisture than wood, it is low-maintenance and provides a high degree of durability.  The added cement in the boards allows it to stand up to the driving rain and snow we often get in the Boston area.

Will fiber cement siding look “authentic” on my home?

Fiber cement siding comes in many “authentic-to-New-England” colors and types.  You can get fiber cement shingles and shakes that fit right into our South Shore, Plymouth, and Boston neighborhoods just fine!

Want your home to look even more authentic in the Boston area?  Our free in-home designer will work with you to choose colors from our historic exterior color palette that draws from the New England homes of yesteryear.

And if you’re unhappy with the color of your current fiber cement siding or shingles, we’re happy to paint it.

How do I take care of my fiber cement siding?

A few things that will allow your Hardie Board or other fiber cement siding to last:

• Check your caulk regularly.  Amazingly, the caulk used when installing your fiber cement siding may be less water resistant than the siding.  Be sure your caulk is nicely sealed to keep the moisture at bay.
• Make sure your siding stays clean. Powerwash or handwash using the lightest setting possible to avoid damaging the boards.  This can help remove dirt, debris, mold, and mildew from your Hardie Board siding.
• Repaint your fiber cement siding every 10-20 years. This recommendation from Hardie Board will keep your fiber cement siding looking fresh and protected.  Since paint beautifies your home and protects the fiber cement siding, painting it every decade or so will help it last.

How long does Fiber Cement Siding last?

With regular care, the extra money you spend upfront on Fiber Cement Siding like Hardie Board can last 50 years or more.

Can I change the color of my Fiber Cement Hardie Board?

Yes, when you repaint Fiber Cement board, it’s a great time to update the color of your home.

Our customers are treated to a free color consultation with Kate, our designer, who will help you love the color of your home.  She’ll even provide free color renderings of your house before you decide on the color to help you visualize the final look.

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You might also like to read:

What paint is best for my exterior?

When can I get my house painted (our schedule that’s updated weekly with our current wait times)

Historic colors for a home’s exterior

Written by: Paige NeJame – Franchise Owner

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Meredith “Paige” NeJame is nationally known in the painting community and has written and published dozens of articles about painting and running a small business for publications such as The Washington Post, Forbes, Sherwin Williams’ blog, and Apartment Therapy.