Replacement
Replacing Your Siding with James Hardie
How to tell when it’s time, what a replacement involves, and what to decide before work starts.
Signs your siding is due
- Cracked, punctured or missing panels after hail or wind
- Warping, buckling or panels pulling away from the wall
- Soft spots, rot or swelling in wood or composite siding
- Peeling paint that keeps coming back
- Water stains or drafts inside near exterior walls
- Faded, chalky or brittle vinyl
Repair or replace?
| Situation | Usually makes sense |
|---|---|
| A few damaged panels, rest in good shape | Repair, if matching material is still available |
| Damage on several sides, or discontinued siding | Replace the affected elevations or the whole house |
| Signs of moisture behind the siding | Replace, so the wall can be opened and fixed |
| Planning new windows, insulation or a new look | Replace, and do the work together |
What a replacement involves
- Tear-off. Removing the old siding lets the installer see the sheathing and fix problems before they’re covered again.
- Wall repairs. Any damaged sheathing is replaced.
- Weather barrier and flashing. New house wrap and flashing around windows, doors and roof lines.
- Siding and trim. James Hardie boards and trim, installed to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Finishing. Caulking, touch-ups, cleanup and walkthrough.
The installation process page covers each step.
Decisions to make first
- Whole house or part? Doing one elevation now can leave a colour and style mismatch.
- What else is due? Windows, soffit, fascia and eavestroughs are easier to do at the same time.
- Insulation. With the walls open, it’s the best moment to add exterior insulation.
- Style and colour. See styles and products and colours.
Replacing after hail
If hail damaged your siding, contact your insurer before work begins and ask what your policy covers. Coverage for upgrading to a different material varies by policy.