James Hardie siding has become a preferred choice for homeowners, and a key factor in this decision is the longevity of its color. In this blog post, we explore the color retention capabilities of James Hardie siding, examining its factory finishing process, warranties, and essential maintenance tips for preserving its vibrant appearance over time.
Factory Finishing Process
One of the key factors contributing to James Hardie siding’s color longevity is its high-quality factory finishing process. James Hardie collaborates with some of the top paint manufacturers globally to ensure that the paint application is smooth and durable, capable of adhering securely to the fiber cement substrate. The company employs machinery designed to paint millions of square feet of siding, guaranteeing consistency in paint application across all boards. This factory finishing not only provides a uniform appearance but also protects the siding against fading, chipping, peeling, and cracking.
Warranties
James Hardie offers robust warranties to support the durability of their siding’s finish. The product comes with a 15-year warranty covering any outright failures of the paint, including chipping, peeling, and cracking.
Additionally, there is a 3-year warranty that addresses excessive fading. This warranty ensures that any noticeable fading visible to the naked eye within three years will be assessed and, if necessary, remedied by a manufacturer’s representative. While there can be occasional bad runs in manufacturing, the warranties provide peace of mind that the siding’s color longevity is supported.
Longevity of the Paint
James Hardie siding’s factory finish provides exceptional longevity for the paint. In most cases, the siding’s paint can last 10 to 12 years before needing a repaint. In some cases, the paint can even retain its fresh appearance for up to 15 or 17 years. This longevity, coupled with James Hardie’s pre-primed boards, ensures that the siding can go years without requiring any significant touch-ups.
Importance of High-Quality Paint
The durability of James Hardie siding’s color depends heavily on the quality of the paint used. The factory finish process utilizes top-tier paints, ensuring the finish adheres well to the substrate. When repainting is necessary, applying two coats of a high-quality exterior paint can restore the siding’s vibrant appearance for another lengthy period. The use of high-quality paint and proper application techniques play a crucial role in maintaining the siding’s finish.
Maintenance of Pre-Finished Siding
Though James Hardie siding is designed to be low maintenance, regular upkeep is still necessary to maintain its appearance. Environmental factors such as pollen, dust, and debris from rural areas can adhere to the siding and dull its color. Regular power washing is recommended to remove these contaminants and preserve the siding’s look. An annual power wash can help prevent buildup, keeping the siding looking as fresh as possible and prolonging its lifespan.
Dealing with Environmental Factors
It’s important to remember that environmental factors can impact the longevity of James Hardie siding’s finish. Pollen, dust, and debris, especially from rural areas or harvest seasons, can stick to the siding, leading to potential damage. By removing these contaminants regularly, you can maintain the siding’s vibrant appearance and protect its color from premature fading.
Importance of Regular Power Wash
An essential maintenance step for James Hardie siding is regular power washing. This simple task can effectively remove accumulated dirt, pollen, and other pollutants, ensuring the siding remains in good condition for years. Annual power washing can significantly reduce the risk of premature fading and prolong the lifespan of James Hardie siding’s finish, preserving its vibrant appearance.
In Summary
James Hardie siding offers excellent color longevity, thanks to its factory finishing process, high-quality paints, and robust warranties. While occasional maintenance is necessary to prevent fading and damage from environmental factors, the siding can retain its vibrant appearance for over a decade.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help and guide you through every step of the process.
