James Hardie Siding Maintenance
A short yearly routine keeps fibre cement siding looking good and protects your warranty.
Washing
- Rinse the siding with a garden hose every 6 to 12 months to remove dust and dirt.
- For stubborn spots, use a soft brush or a soft wet cloth.
- Avoid high-pressure washing and acid cleaners. James Hardie’s care instructions say both can damage the fibre cement surface.
A simple yearly check
| Check | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Caulking | Gaps or cracks around windows, doors and trim. Re-caulk where it has failed. |
| Bottom edges | Soil, mulch or snow piled against the siding. Keep them clear. |
| Eavestroughs | Overflow or leaks that send water down the wall. |
| Finish | Chips or scratches. Touch up small ones as the manufacturer directs. |
| Vegetation | Shrubs and vines touching the wall. Trim them back. |
| Sprinklers | Spray that hits the siding every day. Re-aim it. |
After a hailstorm
Walk around the house and look for chips, cracks or dents, especially on the side the storm came from. Photograph anything you find and contact your insurer before arranging repairs.
Small repairs
James Hardie’s care guide says dents, chips and cracks can be filled with a good-quality cement patching compound. Badly damaged boards are replaced individually. A repair done on factory-finished siding will need a colour-matched touch-up.
Winter habits
- Don’t pile shovelled snow against the walls.
- Keep downspouts discharging away from the house.
- Be careful with shovels and snow blowers near the bottom courses.
Repainting
Factory finishes last a long time, but any painted surface eventually needs refreshing. When that time comes, use a quality exterior paint suited to fibre cement and follow James Hardie’s painting guidance.
Always follow the current James Hardie care and maintenance instructions for your specific product.