As a commercial property owner in Oakland, you want your building to stand out while remaining durable and low-maintenance. One way to achieve this is by using James Hardie fiber cement siding. With its mix of wood fibers and cement, HardiePlank offers strength, weather resistance, and design flexibility.
In this article, we will explore eight reasons Hardie siding is an ideal choice for commercial buildings in the Bay Area climate. From long-lasting curb appeal to fire safety, HardiePlank can enhance your property in multiple ways. Continue reading to learn how this trusted brand of fiber cement siding can benefit your commercial real estate.
What Is James Hardie Siding?
James Hardie siding is a popular brand of fiber cement siding used for residential and light commercial exterior cladding. Fiber cement siding is made from a mixture of sand, cement, and cellulose fibers that are pressed into panels or planks.
James Hardie siding offers several advantages compared to traditional wood siding. It is more resistant to moisture damage, requiring little to no maintenance. Fiber cement siding does not rot, crack, split, or warp like wood. It is also more durable and has a longer lifespan of up to 50 years with minimal upkeep.
James Hardie siding comes in various styles to match different architectural designs. Plank styles imitate the look of wooden clapboard or shingle siding, while panel styles provide a smooth finish. Texture options include smooth, wood grain, and stucco-like finishes. The siding is factory-primed and comes pre-painted in a variety of colors.
Installation of James Hardie siding is similar to wood siding. It can be installed either horizontally or vertically over a weather-resistant barrier. Like wood siding, fiber cement siding requires caulk and sealant at joints and penetrations to ensure it is properly water-resistant. Special tools are needed to cut and drill the fiber cement panels.
6 Benefits of Using James Hardie Siding on Your Commercial Property
Durability
James Hardie siding is made of fiber cement, a durable composite material that lasts for decades. It is resistant to rot, damage from insects, and weathering. The siding requires minimal maintenance and will maintain its appearance for a long time.
Energy Efficiency
The fiber cement material provides insulation for buildings. It helps reduce heating and cooling costs by acting as an effective insulator. The siding also reflects sunlight, which can further improve the energy efficiency of the building.
Low Maintenance
James Hardie siding is low-maintenance. It does not require frequent painting or staining. The siding can last 15-30 years before needing a fresh coat of paint. It is also resistant to damage from weather, insects, and rot, so it does not require frequent repairs or replacement.
Curb Appeal
James Hardie siding offers an attractive appearance that can enhance the curb appeal of any commercial building. It is available in a range of styles, textures, and colors to complement any architectural style. Updating the siding on a building is an easy way to make the entire structure more modern and appealing.
Safety
As a non-combustible material, James Hardie siding improves the fire safety of buildings. The fiber cement material is rated for use in fire-resistant construction. It will not burn or release toxic fumes in the event of a fire. The siding can improve the fire rating and safety of any commercial structure.
Value
High-quality, durable siding like James Hardie fiber cement siding can increase the value of a commercial property. The siding signifies a well-maintained building and also provides benefits like energy efficiency, fire safety, and curb appeal that are appealing to potential buyers or tenants. Updating the siding is an investment that can pay off in the long run.
James Hardie Siding Comes in Various Styles and Colors
James Hardie fiber cement siding is available in a multitude of profiles, textures, and colors to suit any commercial architectural style. Whether your building exterior calls for a traditional lap siding or a modern panelized look, Hardie siding can achieve the desired aesthetic.
Profiles
Hardie siding comes in horizontal lap siding, vertical siding, panel siding, and shingle siding profiles. The lap siding has a traditional, wood-like appearance with overlapping boards. Vertical siding has a clean, modern look with long, narrow boards installed vertically. Panel siding provides a flat, contemporary design. Cedar mill shingles emulate the look of cedar shake shingles.
Textures
Choose from smooth, brushed, or rough-sawn textures. The brushed texture has subtle wood-grain striations. The rough-sawn texture simulates the rustic look of lumber mill-sawn wood.
Colors
Hardie siding is available in over 20 factory-finished colors, from crisp whites and pale pastels to rich, earthy tones. Custom colors are also available to match your commercial exterior accents and trim. The color is embedded in the fiber cement, so it won’t fade, chip or peel over time.
With the wide range of styles, textures, and hues of James Hardie siding, you can achieve a customized look for your commercial building to boost its curb appeal and complement its architecture. The low-maintenance, durable siding will keep your property looking pristine for decades.
James Hardie Siding Is Cost-Effective
Compared to other siding materials, James Hardie fiber cement siding is an affordable option for commercial properties. The initial investment in Hardie siding provides long-term value due to its durability and low maintenance.
Lower Insurance Premiums
Hardie siding’s noncombustible and impact-resistant nature can lower insurance premiums for commercial buildings. The fiber cement material is rated for fire resistance and can withstand impacts without damage. Lower risk of property damage means lower premium costs for owners.
Less Maintenance Required
Hardie siding requires minimal maintenance like repainting or restaining which reduces costs over time. The pre-finished siding options protect for 15-30 years before needing a refresh. For unpainted siding, expect to repaint every 7-15 years. Either way, lower maintenance means lower costs for commercial owners compared to other siding types that require frequent upkeep.
Long Lifespan
With a 50-year limited product warranty and an expected lifespan of 25-30 years or more, James Hardie siding is a cost-effective investment. Although initial costs may be higher than some vinyl or wood options, the siding will likely outlast those materials by decades, saving money on replacement and installation fees. For commercial properties, this durability and longevity provide excellent value.
Overall, while James Hardie’s siding may have a slightly higher upfront cost, it provides significant savings on insurance, maintenance, and replacement over the lifetime of the product. For commercial property owners looking to reduce costs and improve value, Hardie fiber cement siding is an optimal solution.
James Hardie Siding Is Low-Maintenance
James Hardie siding requires minimal upkeep due to its durable composition. Once installed, Hardie siding is low-maintenance for many years. It does not rot, warp, or crack and resists damage from environmental exposure.
The siding’s fiber cement material withstands weathering and does not require painting or staining for up to 30 years in many climates. When it does come time to re-coat the siding, you have the flexibility to change colors by repainting. The siding’s surface also deters the growth of mold and mildew.
Hardie siding is also impact-resistant, so it does not dent or scratch easily. It stands up well to hail, debris impacts, and the activities of daily life. The siding’s durability reduces the chance of damage that would require costly repairs or replacement.
James Hardie Siding Improves Curb Appeal
As a commercial property owner, the external appearance of your building plays an important role in attracting tenants and customers. High-quality, durable siding like James Hardie fiber cement siding enhances your property’s curb appeal through an attractive design. The siding’s color and texture options allow you to choose a style that matches your building’s architecture and surrounding landscape.
James Hardie siding is visually appealing due to its wood grain texture that resembles natural wood siding. However, it does not dent, rot or warp like wood. Its resistant and non-combustible nature means the siding retains its appearance for decades with minimal maintenance required. The siding comes in a variety of widths and styles to suit any commercial building. Whether your property has a contemporary or traditional design, James Hardie siding helps create an exterior that leaves a lasting impression.
Improving your building’s curb appeal through high-performance siding like James Hardie leads to benefits beyond aesthetics. Attractive, well-maintained properties often achieve higher occupancy rates and can demand higher rents. For retail locations, an eye-catching exterior draws more foot traffic into stores. Overall, James Hardie siding helps make a statement that conveys the quality within, leading to a boost in your commercial property’s value and success.
FAQ on Benefits of James Hardie Siding
Some of the major advantages of James Hardie siding for commercial buildings include durability, low maintenance, energy efficiency, and curb appeal. The fiber cement material is highly impact-resistant and non-combustible, eliminating the risk of damage or fire hazard. It requires minimal upkeep beyond occasional cleaning and may last 50 years or more. James Hardie siding also improves insulation and can reduce heating/cooling costs. Its attractive appearance enhances a building’s aesthetic appeal and may increase property value.
James Hardie siding outperforms vinyl and wood siding in several key areas. Fiber cement is more durable and weather-resistant than vinyl, which can warp, dent, or crack over time. It is also less prone to damage from insects, rot, or mold than wood. James Hardie siding tends to have a longer lifespan and lower lifetime cost than either vinyl or wood siding. It provides better insulation and energy efficiency, as well as a more natural, attractive look. Fiber cement siding is considered an eco-friendly choice since it is made from recycled materials and requires no sealants.
James Hardie siding comes in a range of styles from traditional lap siding to vertical panels. It is available in over 20 standard colors as well as custom colors. The siding can be painted to match any color scheme. The variety of siding profiles and shades allows commercial property owners to choose an option suited to their building’s architecture and needs.
Conclusion
You now know the key benefits of using James Hardie fiber cement siding for your commercial property in Oakland. With unmatched durability, a wide range of design options, and resistance to fire and moisture damage, HardiePlank lap siding can protect and beautify your building for decades.
Combined with the product’s sustainability, low maintenance needs, and noise insulation, you have every reason to choose Hardie siding over vinyl or wood. Consult with a qualified contractor today to see how this innovative product can enhance your property’s aesthetics and performance. With Hardie Siding’s unique advantages, you can’t go wrong for your next commercial project.
At Rhino Oakland Window Replacement & Siding, we understand the importance of investing in high-quality materials for your commercial property. Our team of experts is ready to help you explore the advantages of James Hardie Siding and how it can transform your property.
For personalized advice and a comprehensive quote, we invite you to visit our website or give us a call. Let us assist you in making your commercial property stand out with the durability and elegance of James Hardie Siding.
