The Price is Right: Unpacking Hardie Siding and Asphalt Shingle Costs

Understanding Your Hardie Siding Estimate: What You Need to Know

A Hardie siding estimate typically ranges from $14,000 to $40,500 depending on your home's size and location. Here's what influences your final price:

Key Cost Factors:

• Home Size: Small homes (10 squares) run $14,000–$18,000 in the Midwest and $5,000–$15,000 in Florida
• Material Choice: HardiePlank®, HardieShingle®, or HardiePanel® styles vary in price
• Labor Rates: Professional installation costs $3–$7 per square foot
• Old Siding Removal: Adds $1,000–$3,000 to your project
• Project Complexity: Multi-story homes and architectural details increase costs

Remember: Exact pricing requires a free, on-site quote. Your final cost depends on home size, material tier, architectural complexity, local labor rates, and any underlying repairs needed.

Choosing new siding is one of the most important investments you'll make in your home. It protects your family from the elements, boosts your curb appeal, and can significantly increase your home's resale value. But understanding what goes into a Hardie siding estimate can feel overwhelming.

James Hardie fiber cement siding has become the gold standard for homeowners who want durability without sacrificing style. It stands up to hurricanes in Florida, resists fire and pests, and comes in dozens of colors and textures. But what does it actually cost?

This guide breaks down every factor that influences your Hardie siding estimate—from material choices to labor costs to hidden fees you might not expect. You'll learn how Hardie compares to other options, what drives the price up or down, and how to get an accurate quote that fits your budget.

I'm Carter Joyce, Director of Marketing at Ridge Top Exteriors, where we've helped thousands of homeowners across Wisconsin, Illinois, and Florida transform their homes with expert siding installations. Over the past five years, I've worked directly with contractors and homeowners to explain Hardie siding estimates and help families make confident, informed decisions about their exterior investments.

What is Hardie Board Siding and Why is it a Smart Investment?

Hardie Board siding, also widely known as James Hardie siding, is a premium type of fiber cement siding. It's a robust composite material made from a blend of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. This unique composition is what gives Hardie Board its exceptional strength and resilience, making it a standout choice for home exteriors.

So, why is it such a smart investment for homeowners in Wisconsin, Illinois, and especially Florida?

• Durability and Longevity: Hardie Board is engineered to last. It's designed to withstand some of the harshest weather conditions, resisting rot, warping, and cracking that often plague other siding materials. This means a long lifespan, often 30 to 50 years with proper care.
• Weather Resistance: From the freezing winters in Wisconsin to the humid, hurricane-prone seasons in Florida, Hardie Board is built to perform. Its climate-specific engineering ensures optimal protection against extreme temperatures, high winds, and moisture. This is particularly crucial for our Florida homeowners where robust siding is a must for storm season. Learn more about choosing the right siding for your home's environment in our guide on How to Choose the Right Siding for Your Climate.
• Fire Resistance: Safety is paramount, and Hardie Board delivers. As a non-combustible material with a Class A fire rating, it offers an added layer of protection, helping to safeguard your home and family from fire hazards.
• Pest and Insect Resistance: Unlike wood siding, fiber cement doesn't attract pests like termites or woodpeckers. This means less worry about structural damage and costly repairs caused by unwanted critters.
• Low Maintenance: While no siding is entirely maintenance-free, Hardie Board comes remarkably close. It requires minimal upkeep compared to many other materials, saving you time and money on continuous painting and repairs.
• Aesthetic Versatility: Hardie Board isn't just tough; it's beautiful. It comes in a wide array of styles, textures, and colors, allowing us to achieve virtually any architectural look you desire—from classic lap siding to modern vertical panels or charming shingles.
• ColorPlus® Technology: Many Hardie products feature ColorPlus® Technology, a factory-applied, baked-on finish that provides up to 30% better fade resistance than traditional paint. This means your home's vibrant color stays truer, longer, with less need for repainting.

Investing in Hardie Board siding means investing in peace of mind, lasting beauty, and superior protection for your home.

Breaking Down Your Hardie Siding Estimate: Key Cost Factors

When you request a Hardie siding estimate from us, we consider several critical factors to provide you with an accurate and transparent quote. The average cost for Hardie Board siding installation typically ranges from $6 to $15 per square foot, including both materials and labor. However, our AI pricing guidance shows that for a medium-sized home (20 squares), Hardie siding can range from $24,500–$31,500 in the Midwest and $27,500–$34,500 in Florida. These are broad ranges, and your specific costs will depend on the unique characteristics of your home and project.

The primary components influencing your final price are material costs, labor costs, and additional expenses. Understanding these elements is key to making an informed decision about your siding replacement project. For a deeper dive into general siding replacement costs, you can check out James Hardie's guide: How Much Does Siding Replacement Cost? | James Hardie.

Material Costs: Comparing Hardie Styles

The material cost for Hardie Board siding generally ranges from $0.70 to $5.25 per square foot. This variation depends heavily on the specific Hardie product line and finish you choose.

Hardie offers a variety of styles, each with its own aesthetic and price point:

• HardiePlank® Lap Siding: This is James Hardie's most popular product, offering a classic, timeless look with horizontal planks. It's versatile and can mimic traditional wood siding. Material costs for lap siding typically range from $0.70 to $4.00 per square foot. Find more details on the HardiePlank Lap Siding page.
• HardiePanel® Vertical Siding: For a more contemporary or rustic board-and-batten look, HardiePanel provides clean lines and bold vertical designs. It's often used as a primary siding or an accent. Material costs can range from $0.70 to $4.00 per square foot. Explore options on the HardiePanel Vertical Siding page.
• HardieShingle® Siding: If you love the charm of cedar shingles but want the durability of fiber cement, HardieShingle is your answer. It replicates the look of natural wood shingles without the high maintenance. Material costs for shingle siding are generally higher, ranging from $2.50 to $5.25 per square foot, reflecting the intricate design. Find out more on the HardieShingle Siding page.

Beyond the siding itself, you'll also need to factor in the cost of trim and accessories. These include corner boards, soffits, fascia, and various molding pieces that complete the look and protect the edges of your siding.

A key decision affecting material cost is whether to choose pre-primed Hardie Board (which will be painted on-site after installation) or factory-painted ColorPlus® Technology siding. While ColorPlus® is initially more expensive (adding $1–$2 per square foot), it offers superior fade resistance and can save you money on painting costs down the road.

Labor Costs: The Price of Professional Installation

Labor costs are a significant portion of any Hardie siding estimate, typically ranging from $4 to $9 per square foot for installation. These costs are influenced by several factors:

• Home Size and Complexity: Larger homes naturally require more labor. Homes with intricate architectural details, multiple stories, numerous windows, dormers, or unique angles increase the complexity of the installation, driving up labor hours and costs. Installing siding on a two-story home, for instance, can be up to 10% more expensive than on a single-story home due to the need for scaffolding and increased safety measures.
• Geographic Location: Labor rates can vary significantly by region. Our teams operate in Wisconsin, Illinois, and Florida, and while we strive for competitive pricing, local economic conditions will always play a role.
• Existing Siding Removal: If we're replacing old siding, the labor involved in its removal and disposal will be added to the estimate.
• Certified Installers: Hardie Board siding is a specialized product that requires specific installation techniques to ensure its performance and to maintain its warranty. We pride ourselves on having highly trained and certified installers. Working with professionals who are familiar with the James Hardie™ ALLIANCE program means you're getting experts who understand the nuances of fiber cement installation, from proper flashing to cutting and fastening. This expertise is crucial for a durable, long-lasting result and to ensure your warranty remains valid. You can learn more about finding qualified professionals in our Siding Contractors Ultimate Guide.

While it might seem tempting to cut corners on labor, professional installation is an investment in the longevity and performance of your Hardie siding.

Additional Costs to Include in Your Hardie Siding Estimate

Beyond the base material and labor, several other factors can influence your final Hardie siding estimate. We believe in transparency, so we'll always lay out these potential costs clearly.

• Old Siding Removal and Disposal: If your home has existing siding, it needs to be removed before new Hardie Board can be installed. This process typically adds between $1,000 and $3,000 to the overall project cost, or $0.70 to $2.00 per square foot for removal alone. Disposal fees for the old material are also included. For more on this, check out Bob Vila's insights on old siding removal.
• Underlying Wall Repairs: Once the old siding is off, we inspect the underlying sheathing and framework. If we find rot, water damage, or structural issues, these repairs are necessary before new siding can go up. These unexpected repairs can add to the project cost but are vital for the integrity of your home and the new siding.
• Building Permits: Depending on your specific city or county in Wisconsin, Illinois, or Florida, a building permit may be required for a siding replacement project. The cost of permits typically ranges from $150 to $500. We'll help you steer these requirements.
• Soffit, Fascia, and Trim Replacement: Often, when replacing siding, it's also a good time to update or replace your soffits, fascia, and trim. These elements are crucial for ventilation, protection, and the overall aesthetic appeal of your home. Replacement costs for these can range from $9 to $34 per linear foot.
• Weather Barrier: A proper weather barrier (house wrap) is essential for moisture management and energy efficiency. While often included in the overall material cost, it's a critical component we ensure is properly installed.
• Unexpected Costs: While we strive for comprehensive estimates, sometimes unforeseen issues arise, especially in older homes. We'll communicate any such findies immediately and discuss solutions.
• Seasonality: Believe it or not, the time of year can sometimes impact costs. Scheduling projects during off-peak seasons (like late fall or early winter) might offer a slight variation in labor pricing.

Knowing the signs that your siding needs attention can help you plan ahead. Read our article on What Are the Signs That Your Siding Needs Replacement? to stay informed.

Hardie Siding vs. The Competition: A Cost and Value Comparison

When considering a Hardie siding estimate, it's natural to compare it with other popular materials. While we offer LP SmartSide in the Midwest and vinyl siding in both Florida and the Midwest, let's focus on a direct comparison between Hardie Board and vinyl siding, as these are common choices for homeowners.

Hardie Board, a fiber cement product, generally has a higher upfront cost than vinyl siding. However, when you look at the long-term value, durability, and maintenance requirements, the picture becomes much clearer.

| Metric | Hardie Board (Fiber Cement) | Vinyl Siding Hard Hardie is always the best option if you can afford it.

Hardie Board Siding Cost (Midwest)

Exact pricing requires a free, on-site quote. Your final cost depends on home size, material tier, architectural complexity, local labor rates, and any underlying repairs needed.

Hardie Board Siding Cost (Florida)

Exact pricing requires a free, on-site quote. Your final cost depends on home size, material tier, architectural complexity, local labor rates, and any underlying repairs needed.

Return on Investment (ROI) and Lifespan

Hardie Board siding offers an impressive average Return on Investment (ROI) of 70% to 80%, making it one of the most valuable home improvements you can undertake. This means a significant portion of your investment can be recouped in increased home value when it comes time to sell.

But the financial benefits don't stop there. Hardie Board boasts an expected lifespan of 30 to 50 years with proper installation and maintenance. This far surpasses many lower-cost options like vinyl siding, which typically needs replacement every 15 to 25 years. This longevity translates into fewer replacement cycles over your homeownership, saving you money and hassle in the long run. James Hardie also stands behind its product with a 30-year limited warranty, and a 15-year warranty on ColorPlus finishes. Should you ever need to file a claim, their process is straightforward: Submit a Warranty Claim.

Maintenance Requirements and Costs

One of the most appealing aspects of Hardie Board siding is its famously low maintenance. While it's not entirely hands-off, the upkeep is significantly less demanding than with materials like wood.

Here's what you can expect:

• Annual Cleaning: A simple annual cleaning with a garden hose and a soft-bristle brush is usually sufficient to remove dirt, pollen, and salt buildup (especially important for our Florida coastal homes).
• Recaulking: We recommend inspecting and recaulking around windows, doors, and trim every 5-10 years to maintain a tight seal against moisture.
• Repainting (for primed boards): If you choose pre-primed Hardie Board that's painted on-site, you'll need to repaint it every 5-10 years, similar to traditional wood siding. However, if you opt for ColorPlus® Technology, the factory-applied finish is highly fade-resistant and can extend the period between repaints significantly, often for 15 years or more.
• Trimming Vegetation: Keeping trees and shrubs trimmed back 6-12 inches from your siding helps prevent moisture retention and allows for proper air circulation.

Compared to the high maintenance of wood siding (which often requires restaining or repainting every 3-7 years) or the potential for vinyl to warp or fade, Hardie Board's minimal requirements are a breath of fresh air.

The Installation Process: From Quote to Completion

The journey to new Hardie Board siding on your home is a detailed process, and we're here to guide you every step of the way. From your initial Hardie siding estimate to the final walkthrough, our focus is on professionalism and precision.

A typical Hardie Board siding installation project for an average-sized home (1,500-2,500 square feet) usually takes about 5 to 12 days. This timeline can extend based on the size and complexity of your home, weather conditions, and any unforeseen repairs. Our team ensures that every stage, from site preparation to cleanup, is handled with the utmost care and efficiency. If you're looking for expert siding installation near you, check out our insights on Siding Installation Near Me.

DIY vs. Professional Installation: A Word of Caution

While the idea of a DIY project can be appealing for cost savings, when it comes to Hardie Board siding, we strongly advise against it. This isn't your average weekend warrior project, and attempting to install fiber cement siding yourself can lead to significant headaches, costly mistakes, and even safety hazards.

Here's why hiring a professional is crucial:

• Specialized Tools Required: Hardie Board is dense and heavy. It requires specific tools for cutting (like a fiber cement saw with a specialized blade) and fastening, as well as dust management equipment to handle silica dust safely.
• Heavy Material: Fiber cement boards are significantly heavier than vinyl or wood siding. Handling these large, heavy planks safely and accurately on a ladder or scaffolding requires strength and experience.
• Potential for Improper Installation: Hardie Board has strict installation guidelines that must be followed precisely to ensure its performance and to validate its warranty. Incorrect nailing, improper flashing, or leaving inadequate gaps can lead to moisture intrusion, voided warranties, and expensive repairs down the line.
• Voiding the Warranty: James Hardie's excellent warranty is a major benefit, but it's contingent on proper installation. DIY errors can easily void this valuable protection.
• Safety Hazards: Cutting fiber cement produces silica dust, which can be harmful if inhaled without proper respiratory protection. Working at heights on scaffolding also poses significant fall risks.

For these reasons, we emphasize the importance of choosing a certified, experienced installer. Our teams are trained in James Hardie's best practices, ensuring your siding is installed correctly, safely, and to the highest standards. When you need a James Hardie Siding Near Me expert, we're ready to help.

How to Get an Accurate Hardie Siding Estimate

Getting an accurate and reliable Hardie siding estimate is the first step toward a successful project. Here's our recommended approach:

1. Research Certified Contractors: Start by looking for contractors who are experienced and certified in installing James Hardie products. Look for companies with a strong track record, positive reviews, and proper licensing and insurance in your area (Wisconsin, Illinois, or Florida).
2. Get At Least Three Itemized Quotes: Don't settle for the first quote. Contact at least three reputable companies and request a detailed, itemized estimate. This allows you to compare not just the bottom line, but also what's included in terms of materials, labor, and additional services.
3. Ask About Timelines, Warranties, and Cleanup: A good contractor will be transparent about the estimated project timeline, the warranty coverage for both materials and workmanship, and their cleanup process. Ensure they discuss the James Hardie product warranty and their own workmanship warranty.
4. Discuss Your Vision and Needs: Clearly communicate your aesthetic preferences (e.g., HardiePlank, HardieShingle, ColorPlus Technology), any specific concerns about your existing siding, and your budget. The more information you provide, the more accurate your Hardie siding estimate will be.
5. Consider Using an Instant Quote Tool for a Preliminary Budget: While not a substitute for an on-site inspection, tools like our Instant Siding Quote can give you a rough idea of costs based on your home's size and desired materials. This can be a helpful starting point for budgeting.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hardie Siding Costs

How much does it cost to install Hardie Board on a 2,000-square-foot house?

For a 2,000-square-foot house, the average cost to install Hardie Board siding can range significantly. In the Midwest, a medium-sized home (around 20 squares, which is roughly 2,000 sq ft of siding area) could see costs between $24,500–$31,500. For a similar home in Florida, the range might be $27,500–$34,500.

These are estimates. The final price depends on a multitude of factors:

• Home Complexity: A simple, rectangular ranch house will cost less than a multi-story home with many gables, dormers, and intricate architectural details, which require more specialized cuts and labor.
• Siding Style Chosen: As discussed, HardieShingle will be more expensive than HardiePlank.
• Geographic Location: Local labor rates and material availability play a role.
• Underlying Repairs: Any hidden damage uncovered during old siding removal will add to the cost.

For a precise Hardie siding estimate custom to your unique 2,000-square-foot home, we offer a free, no-obligation on-site quote.

Is Hardie Board siding more expensive than vinyl?

Yes, Hardie Board siding is generally more expensive than vinyl siding in terms of upfront cost.

For example, for a medium-sized home (20 squares):

• Midwest: Vinyl siding might range from $18,000–$23,000, while Hardie siding would be $24,500–$31,500.
• Florida: Vinyl siding could be $21,000–$26,000, compared to Hardie siding at $27,500–$34,500.

While vinyl offers a lower initial price point, Hardie Board's long-term value often outweighs this upfront difference. Hardie lasts twice as long as vinyl, stands up better to severe weather (crucial in Florida!), pests, and fire, and provides superior curb appeal and a higher ROI. So, while you pay more initially, you gain significantly in durability, aesthetics, and reduced maintenance over the decades.

How can I save money on a Hardie Board siding project?

Investing in Hardie Board siding is a significant decision, and we understand you want to make the most of your budget. Here are some strategies to potentially reduce your Hardie siding estimate:

• Schedule During the Off-Season: If your project isn't urgent, consider scheduling it during the contractor's off-season, typically late fall or early winter. Demand might be lower, potentially leading to more competitive pricing.
• Choose Standard Styles Over Premium Ones: While Hardie offers beautiful premium lines like Artisan®, opting for standard HardiePlank® lap siding or HardiePanel® can offer substantial savings without compromising on quality or durability. Standard ColorPlus® colors are also more budget-friendly than custom hues.
• Bundle with Other Services: If you're also considering other exterior upgrades like roofing or windows, ask us about bundling services. We offer comprehensive solutions for roofing, siding, windows, and gutters, and combining projects can sometimes lead to efficiency savings.
• Get Multiple Itemized Quotes: As mentioned earlier, comparing detailed quotes from several reputable, certified contractors is crucial. This helps ensure you're getting a fair price for the scope of work.
• Prepare Your Property: Ensure the area around your home is clear and accessible for the installation crew. This can help the project run more smoothly and efficiently. Discuss any specific site preparation needs with your contractor beforehand.
• Focus on Key Areas: If a full re-side isn't immediately feasible, consider prioritizing highly visible sections of your home or areas most susceptible to weather damage for a partial Hardie installation.

Conclusion: Is Hardie Siding the Right Investment for Your Home?

After breaking down all the factors influencing a Hardie siding estimate, it's clear that while the initial investment can be higher than some alternatives, the long-term benefits are substantial. From its best durability against the harsh Wisconsin winters and Florida hurricanes to its superior fire and pest resistance, Hardie Board siding offers peace of mind and lasting protection. Its low maintenance requirements and aesthetic versatility mean you'll enjoy a beautiful home exterior for decades to come, with less effort and fewer recurring costs.

Hardie siding isn't just an expense; it's a smart investment in your home's value, curb appeal, and structural integrity.

At Ridge Top Exteriors, we're proud to be trusted experts in exterior home improvements across Wisconsin, Illinois, and Florida. With over 20 years of experience and thousands of satisfied homeowners, our certified installers deliver best craftsmanship and factory-certified installations. We understand the unique challenges and needs of homes in our service areas, and we're ready to help you protect and beautify your most important asset.

Ready to explore how Hardie siding can transform your home? Get a personalized Hardie siding estimate today!

Get Your Instant Quote or Contact Us for a free, no-obligation consultation.