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Hardie Board has replaced many other types of siding and exterior finishes and has been the current trend since the product gain industry and customer acceptance in the late 90’s. Developed in the mid 80’s, the fiber-cement technology made use of the benefits that came from the product´s durability, versatility and strength. It lasts against cracking, rotting, hail damage and many other possible problems. It also is resistant to flame spread, moisture and pests. What great intrinsic characteristics for a building product!

 Hardie products are also “green” and help meet the goal of a sustainable building practice. “One of the reasons James Hardie products are ‘green’ is because they incorporate natural Ingredients that are low in toxicity. And, they last longer than other products.” Natural and sustainable raw materials such as cement, sand, wood fiber and water are used to manufacture their products  and help minimize the impacts the use of these materials have on the environment. Additionally, James Hardie:

• Sources about 90% of our raw materials from local or regional suppliers.
• Have a nationwide network of factories that reduces shipping distance and fuel consumption.
• Reduces VOC emissions. Installers using our ColorPlus® prefinished siding have

less exposure to paint fumes.

• Is developing technologies that will enable them to recycle 100% of our process water used in manufacturing.

 Hardie products can be painted on site or installed pre-finished with ColorPlus® Technology. I have bid projects both ways and sometimes come out pretty close either way. In that case I would lean towards having the products delivered pre-finished. ColorPlus® delivers a high-quality, long-lasting finish. The manufacturing process involves baking on several coats of paint in the factory, which eliminates Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) on the job site and is guaranteed for up to a 30-year limited transferrable product warranty, as well as a 15-year finish warranty covering both paint and labor.

 If it sounds like I’m a Hardie salesman, well I am in part because I’m sold! I have it on my own home and it’s the best thing I did for my house. Come see it for yourself at our 2013 Remodelors Showcase in Minneapolis.

CJames Hardie’s contributions and certifications can be found on our website at www.jameshardie.com