What Makes Cement Board the Best Choice for Siding? Why Homeowners Love James Hardie®

When it comes to replacing your home’s siding, the options can feel endless. You want something that’s beautiful, long-lasting, weather resistant, and low maintenance—but not every material checks all those boxes.

That’s why more and more homeowners in Western Pennsylvania (and across the U.S.) are turning to cement board siding, especially James Hardie® fiber cement siding. It’s one of the most durable, attractive, and energy-efficient siding materials on the market today.

Let’s break down why cement board siding is often considered the best choice for your home’s exterior, and why we at Bella Construction proudly install James Hardie products.

🧱 What Is Cement Board Siding?

Cement board, also known as fiber cement siding, is made from a mixture of cement, sand, water, and cellulose fibers. This combination creates a siding product that looks like wood but performs like concrete.

James Hardie is the industry leader in fiber cement technology. Their products, including HardiePlank® lap siding, HardiePanel® vertical siding, and HardieShingle® siding, are designed for long-term performance and exceptional curb appeal.

✅ 1. Unmatched Durability

One of the biggest reasons homeowners love cement board siding is its incredible durability. It stands up to:

• 🌧️ Heavy rain

• ❄️ Snow and ice

• 💨 High winds

• 🔥 Fire (it’s non-combustible)

• 🐜 Pests like termites and carpenter ants

• 🦠 Mold and mildew

While traditional wood siding can rot or warp, and vinyl can crack or melt, James Hardie cement board stays strong for decades—backed by a 30-year non-prorated warranty.

🌦️ 2. Built for Your Climate

James Hardie created the HardieZone® System, which customizes the formulation of their siding based on the specific climate zone you live in. In Western PA, we deal with temperature swings, heavy snow, rain, and humidity. The siding installed here is engineered to resist moisture and seasonal changes without expanding or contracting.

It’s siding made specifically for your zip code—and it shows.

🎨 3. Beautiful, Customizable Aesthetic Appeal

Want the look of natural wood without the maintenance? Cement board siding delivers. James Hardie siding comes in a wide range of colors, textures, and styles, from classic lap siding to rustic shakes to modern vertical panels.

Their ColorPlus® Technology bakes on multiple coats of color in a controlled environment, resulting in:

• Bold, consistent color

• Resistance to fading from UV exposure

• Less frequent repainting

• A 15-year finish warranty

Whether you prefer timeless neutrals or vibrant modern hues, there’s a Hardie siding style that fits your home perfectly.

🧼 4. Low Maintenance

Compared to wood or vinyl, cement board is incredibly easy to care for:

• No sanding or staining

• No warping or cracking

• No pest damage

• Just occasional rinsing with a garden hose

That means less time working on your home—and more time enjoying it.

🔥 5. Fire Resistant for Peace of Mind

Unlike wood or vinyl, James Hardie fiber cement siding is non-combustible. That’s why many insurance companies offer discounts for homes with Hardie siding—it reduces the risk of fire spreading.

In areas where fire safety matters, Hardie siding provides real peace of mind.

🏡 6. Boosts Home Value

Installing cement board siding is not just an upgrade—it’s an investment. According to Remodeling Magazine’s annual Cost vs. Value Report, fiber cement siding replacement consistently ranks among the top home improvement projects for return on investment.

If you plan to sell your home in the future, Hardie siding adds serious curb appeal and marketability.

💰 7. Great Long-Term Value

While cement board siding can cost more upfront than vinyl or wood alternatives, its long lifespan, low maintenance, and energy efficiency make it a smart long-term choice. With minimal repairs and repainting needed over the years, you actually save money over time.

Plus, that 30-year limited warranty offers peace of mind you just won’t get from many other siding materials.

Why We Trust James Hardie at Bella Construction

At Bella Construction, we’re proud to install James Hardie siding because we know it delivers the results our customers want:

✅ Long-lasting performance
✅ Custom color options
✅ Strong manufacturer warranties
✅ Outstanding curb appeal
✅ Reduced maintenance needs

Whether you’re replacing old wood siding, upgrading from vinyl, or building a new home, cement board siding from James Hardie is a top-tier option.

Ready to Transform Your Home’s Exterior?

We offer free estimates on all siding projects and can walk you through your options, from style and color to pricing and installation.

📍 Proudly serving Irwin, Greensburg, Pittsburgh, and all of Western PA.
🛠️ Licensed, insured, and experienced.
💬 Ask us about our lifetime warranty window bundles and roofing/siding combo discounts!