Why is Hardie more expensive than vinyl?

Hardie is heavier, cuts and fastens slower, and requires Hardie-spec installation. The product itself is also more expensive. The 15-year finish warranty and 30+ year service life justify the premium for many homeowners.

Does Hardie need to be painted?

ColorPlus is factory-finished with a 15-year warranty. Primed Hardie needs to be painted after install but allows custom color choice.

Will Hardie crack in Indiana freeze-thaw?

Properly installed Hardie performs excellently through freeze-thaw. The key is correct fastener placement and adequate panel gap for expansion.

Can you install Hardie over existing siding?

We tear off to sheathing. Re-siding over existing material is faster but traps moisture and voids warranty — we don't do it.

Exteriors · Indianapolis, IN

James Hardie Siding in Indianapolis, IN

Authentic James Hardie fiber cement installation.

Get Instant Estimate (317) 970-4687

About James Hardie Siding

James Hardie fiber cement is the gold standard for exterior cladding — but proper installation matters as much as the product. Hardie's 15-year ColorPlus finish warranty only applies when installation matches their published specification.

We install Hardie HardiePlank, HardiePanel, and HardieShingle in both ColorPlus and primed-for-paint finishes. ColorPlus carries a 15-year non-prorated finish warranty that's only valid when fastener placement, nail gauge, panel gap, and clearances all match Hardie's installation manual.

Every Hardie install we do is photo-documented for warranty compliance. We use Hardie-approved fasteners, gauge-correct nail guns, and proper blade types on every cut. The detail matters: Hardie holds installers accountable to spec, and a non-compliant install voids the finish warranty even when the product still performs.

Hardie's chief advantages over vinyl in Indiana are fire resistance (Class A), pest resistance (won't host insect damage), and paint adhesion that holds for 15+ years between repaints. The trade is cost — Hardie typically installs at 1.5–2x vinyl pricing.

Our process

01
Tear-off & sheathing prep
Existing siding removed, sheathing inspected, house-wrap and flashing installed to spec.
02
Hardie-spec layout
Course layout, panel cuts, and fastener pattern planned to Hardie's installation manual.
03
Photo-documented install
Fastener placement, gauge, gap, and clearances documented for warranty compliance.
04
Field touch-up & punch
Field cuts touched up with ColorPlus paint, color-matched caulk at terminations.