The 2024 Guide to James Hardie Cedar Shake Siding

The 2024 Guide to James Hardie Cedar Shake Siding

In the quest for a perfect blend of timeless beauty and unmatched durability in beautiful home exteriors, James Hardie Cedar Shake Siding stands out as a leading choice for homeowners aiming to elevate their property's aesthetic and functional value.

This 2024 guide dives deep into the world of James Hardie's cedar shake siding, offering insights into its unique features, installation processes, and maintenance tips. Whether you're constructing a new house or considering an upgrade to your current home, understanding the benefits and nuances of this siding option will empower you to make an informed decision.

Join us as we explore the advantages, styles, and innovative technology that set James Hardie Cedar Shake Siding apart in the home improvement industry.

What Is James Hardie Cedar Shake Siding?

a close up of James Hardie cedar shake siding

James Hardie Real Cedar Shake Siding is a fiber cement siding product crafted to mimic the look of cedar shake while offering superior durability and protection for your home. It features an authentic wood grain texture and comes in a variety of colors to match any architectural style.

Unlike traditional wood shakes, James Hardie's cedar shake siding is resistant to rotting, warping, and cracking, making it a low-maintenance option for homeowners. It also offers exceptional resistance to fire, pests, and extreme weather conditions, ensuring your home stays protected for years to come.

Styles of James Hardie Cedar Shake Siding

a close up of James Hardie cedar shake siding

James Hardie Cedar Shake Siding comes in two styles: individual shakes and panels. The individual shake style mimics the look of natural wood shakes, while the panel style features larger, square panels with the same wood grain texture.

Both styles are available in a variety of colors and can be installed horizontally or vertically to achieve different looks. They are versatile options that can complement any interior design scheme.

Innovative Technology: James Hardie's Fiber Cement

James Hardie Cedar Shake Siding is made from fiber cement, a composite material composed of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers.

This blend creates a durable and resilient product that can withstand harsh weather conditions and resist damage from pests and rotting.

But what sets James Hardie's fiber cement apart is its innovative technology, including its exclusive ColorPlus Technology and HardieZone System.

  • ColorPlus Technology: This advanced finishing process involves applying multiple coats of finish to the siding in a controlled environment, ensuring consistent and long-lasting color retention. James Hardie Cedar Shake Siding with ColorPlus Technology comes with a 15-year limited warranty on its color.
  • HardieZone System: James Hardie has engineered their products to withstand specific climate conditions through their HardieZone System. This system divides the United States into ten distinct zones, each with its unique weather challenges. Depending on your region, you can choose from a selection of James Hardie siding products formulated to thrive in your area's climate.

Advantages of James Hardie Cedar Shake Siding

A house with James Hardie cedar shake siding
  • Timeless Aesthetic Appeal: This new siding is designed to capture the charm and warmth of natural wood without maintenance concerns. Its deep grooves and grain-like texture create a realistic look that adds character to any home.
  • Enhanced Durability: Fiber cement is known for its exceptional strength and resistance to external elements, making James Hardie's cedar shake siding an ideal choice for long-term durability. It can withstand heavy winds, hail, moisture, and UV rays without warping or fading, ensuring your home maintains its beauty and value for decades.
  • Low Maintenance Requirements: Say goodbye to the constant repainting, staining, and sealing that traditional wood shake siding requires. With James Hardie's cedar shake siding, you only need to clean it once a year with mild soap and water to maintain its vibrant appearance. Hardie siding can last quite a while, up to 40-50 years or more when properly maintained.
  • Eco-Friendly Option:James Hardie Cedar Shake Siding is made from sustainable materials, including cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, making it an eco-friendly choice for homeowners looking to reduce their environmental impact. It also has a long lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing waste.

Disadvantages of James Hardie Cedar Shake Siding

A house with James Hardie cedar shake siding
  • Higher Upfront Cost: Compared to other siding materials, James Hardie's cedar shake siding may have a higher upfront cost due to its durability and quality. However, the long-term savings on maintenance and replacement costs make it a worthwhile investment.
  • Professional Installation Required: Fiber cement siding is heavier than traditional wood or vinyl sidings, making it more challenging to install. It's essential to hire professional contractors with experience in handling James Hardie products for flawless and long-lasting installation.

A Certified Partner with James Hardie

A man standing in front of a house with James Hardie cedar shake siding

Pro Superior Construction has established itself as a certified partner with James Hardie, underscoring its commitment to quality and excellence in home renovation and siding installation. Our partnership with James Hardie means Pro Superior Construction is equipped with the specialized training and expertise that James Hardie mandates for the installation of its fiber cement siding products.

Through training to James Hardie's best practices, the team at Pro Superior Construction ensures that each project not only meets but exceeds the high standards set forth by James Hardie. Being a certified partner also keeps Pro Superior Construction up-to-date with the latest products and innovations from James Hardie, allowing them to offer the most current and effective solutions to their clients.

Installation Process

A man installing cedar shake siding

Installing James Hardie Cedar Shake Siding, including staggered shake/ vinyl shake, requires the expertise of a professional contractor for proper application.The process involves attaching the siding panels to your home's exterior using nails, screws, and a starter strip/ j channel, followed by caulking and painting to seal any gaps between the panels. The result is a seamless, beautiful finish that will elevate your home's curb appeal.

Maintenance Tips

A house with James Hardie cedar shake siding

To keep James Hardie Cedar Shake Siding looking its best, it's essential to follow some maintenance tips:

  • Clean the siding once a year with mild soap and water using a soft brush or cloth to remove any dirt or debris. Avoid using high-pressure washers as they can damage the siding surface.
  • Inspect the siding regularly for any cracks, chips, or gaps and repair them promptly to prevent moisture from seeping in.
  • Keep landscaping and vegetation around the siding trimmed to avoid contact with the panels, which can cause discoloration or damage.
  • Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on the siding as they can

Cost Breakdown

The cost of James Hardie Cedar Shake Siding varies depending on factors like home size, location, and features. On average, it's $10 to $14 per square foot for materials and installation. For a 2,000-square-foot home, expect $20,000 to $28,000 for full installation. Get quotes from multiple contractors for the best price and quality. Investing in James Hardie Cedar Shake Siding boosts aesthetic appeal, long-term value, and durability.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does James Hardie Cedar Shake Siding last?

fiber cement siding can last quite a while. With proper installation and maintenance, James Hardie's cedar shake siding can last up to 50 years or more. This durable siding option is resistant to rot, pests, and harsh weather conditions, making it a reliable choice for long-term protection and aesthetic appeal.

Can I paint James Hardie Cedar Shake Siding?

Yes, you can paint James Hardie's cedar shake siding, but it's not necessary as it comes with a factory-applied finish that can last up to 15 years. This pre-finished option not only saves time and effort but also provides long-lasting protection against the elements, making it a convenient choice for homeowners. Additionally, you can request free color samples from your supplier to find the perfect match for your home.

Is James Hardie Cedar Shake Siding suitable for all climates?

Yes, James Hardie's cedar shake siding is engineered to endure diverse weather conditions such as extreme heat, cold, wind, and moisture. For enhanced performance tailored to your climate, make sure to adhere to recommended installation procedures and maintenance practices. This siding option not only offers durability but also adds a touch of timeless elegance to your home exterior.

A house with James Hardie cedar shake siding

Conclusion

James Hardie Cedar Shake Siding is a popular choice of shingle siding for homeowners looking to add a touch of natural wood beauty without maintenance concerns. It offers outstanding durability, low maintenance requirements, and eco-friendliness, making it a worthwhile investment for any home.

With proper installation and upkeep, this siding can transform your home's exterior and provide long-term protection and value. Consider James Hardie Cedar Shake Siding for your next siding project and enjoy its timeless aesthetic appeal and enhanced durability.

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Meet our siding experts
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Daniil Chelak

Daniil Chelak

CEO / Owner

Todd Wonnacott

Todd Wonnacott

Sales Representative

Roman Bondarevich

Roman Bondarevich

Multi Family Project Manager

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