Looking for siding that makes your home stunning and takes the worry off your plate? James Hardie® fiber cement siding is built for homeowners who want lasting beauty without constant upkeep. It resists pests, stands strong against harsh weather and high winds, is non-combustible, and comes in styles that seriously boost curb appeal.
Best of all, Hardie backs it with a 30-year, non-prorated, transferable warranty—one of the best in the industry. Let’s take a closer look at what that warranty covers and how to keep it working for you.
What Does James Hardie’s Siding Warranty Cover?
30-Year, Non-Prorated Warranty
All Hardie® fiber cement products come with a 30-year, non-prorated warranty. This includes siding panels like Hardie® Plank, Hardie® Shingle, and Hardie® Panel as well as Hardie® Soffit and Hardie® Trim.
The warranty protects against manufacturing defects and applies when products are installed according to James Hardie specifications. It covers Hardie materials, not labor.
15-Year Limited Warranty
ColorPlus® Technology finishes come with a 15-year limited warranty that covers the factory finish, protecting against peeling, cracking, and chipping. The warranty is limited to the purchaser and the first transferee. Your siding must be properly installed and maintained for a claim to be submitted. In the rare case that your siding peels, cracks, or chips, James Hardie will cover a percentage of the paint and labor cost to repair or replace the damaged part of your finish.
What Are the Differences Between Product and Installation Warranties?
Product Warranties
Manufacturer warranties cover defects in the siding and trim themselves.
Installation Warranties
This warranty type is offered by the installer, not James Hardie, and it covers workmanship errors. Its length varies by contractor and includes labor to fix installation related problems. If siding fails because it was installed incorrectly, the contractor should stand behind it.
What Your Hardie Warranty Doesn’t Cover
Hardie’s 30-year warranty has reasonable limits. It doesn’t cover:
- Neglect, abuse, or misuse of siding
- Improper storage, shipping, and handling
- Incorrect installation of Hardie siding
- Repairs or alteration to their products
- Structural movement of materials Hardie siding is attached to
- Issues due to exceeding maximum wind speeds
- Damage because of a lack of adequate maintenance
- Peeling of third-party paint, stain, or finish
- Growth of mold, mildew, fungi, or other bacteria
- Damage from moisture intrusion
- Tornado or flood damage
How Do You Keep Your Warranty Intact? What Actions Can Void Warranty Coverage?
Hire a James Hardie Preferred Contractor to Install Your Siding
Warranties come with requirements, and James Hardie’s first standard that must be met in order to qualify for their 30-year warranty is you’ve got to hire a James Hardie Approved Contractor (like us!) to install your siding. Why? To ensure it is installed according to the manufacturer’s standards.
Hardie Approved Contractors get special training on installation techniques for this outstanding siding. And to maintain this elite status, contractors must consistently meet a strict set of criteria James Hardie outlines. The result? You get siding installation done meticulously so you can enjoy the many benefits it has to offer!
Give James Hardie 30 Days’ Notice if You Discover a Claimed Defect
Before you initiate any permanent repair, you must give notice to James Hardie. Describe the location and details of your claimed defect. Include photos of the product that show the defect.
Ensure You Receive Authorization Before Initiating Repairs
Repairs that are initiated without prior authorization from James Hardie may void your warranty, so allow their authorized agent to examine the damaged area and take pictures and samples if necessary.
Protect Any Property That Could Be Affected Until the Defect Is Resolved
If your siding is compromised, protect your property until your claim is resolved. If necessary, tarp any cracks or gaps in your siding to avoid moisture penetration.
Ensure Your James Hardie Siding Is Installed Properly So Your Warranty Is Positioned to Be Honored
Dreaming of an exterior upgrade that looks amazing and stays low maintenance for years to come? Your James Hardie® siding is only as good as the team installing it—and choosing a Hardie Approved Contractor gives you confidence it’s done right, and your warranty stays protected.
At Porter Family Exteriors, we’re proud to be a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor, so you can relax knowing your siding will be installed to the highest standards the first time. Ready to take the next step? Reach out today for a free siding quote and start your home’s transformation.
