Though this product is hard and sturdy, these are not the characteristics that made it earn that nickname. It derives its name from the man who invented it. James Hardie from Australia is responsible for having developed Hardie siding to replace wooden and vinyl sidings in Australia's domestic market. But, no more the product is confined to homes in Australia. All over the world it has taken home siding industry by storm and continues to gain popularity.
On seeing it for the first time, you would find it hard to believe that it is not natural wood. Care is taken to impart it the texture and grain of natural wood. It has a built in resistance for water and fire. Unlike natural wood, insects and termites do not affect it. You will appreciate that all the flaws and limitations of natural wood have been eliminated; yet it looks very much like wood. That makes it suitable for being used even under harsh climatic conditions where wood wouldn't last for long.
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Another advantage of this product is that you may avoid painting it because it looks pretty and very appealing in its natural color too. Yet, if you decide to have it painted it's perfectly fine, as paint on its material lasts much loner than on a wooden siding. It's so paint- friendly that the paint won't get chipped or peeled off so easily.
Like any other proper siding, Hardie plank needs proper installation and petty maintenance. Installation is not too difficult to be carried out by any homeowner. It hardly calls for any unduly long or accurate planning. Though it is always better to plan the project before hand to eliminate frustration and anxiety. If you are a hobbyist with a reasonable variety of tools in your basement workshop you are not likely to need any additional tools for doing the job yourself. Maintenance is perhaps the easiest in this case. You just wash it up with a garden hose.
Australia has willingly shared its secret and this kind of siding is going to be around for a long time. You are sure to find one in a color of your choice to match your style and needs. The price is attractive and the manufacturer also offers a very attractive warranty.
You will not be doing a justice to the subject of buying a new siding without taking into consideration this new dependable well-designed sturdy product.