Hardie board siding is built to last, which is why so many homeowners love it. 

But just because it’s tough doesn’t mean you’re stuck with the color it came in. You can absolutely paint Hardie board, and when it’s done right, the finish looks gorgeous and holds up for years.

It’s one of those projects that feels a little intimidating at first, but once you know the right steps, it’s actually super straightforward.

In this post, we’ll show you how to paint Hardie board without headaches or wasted time.

Can You Paint Hardie Board?

Yes, you can paint Haride boards. 

Hardie board is designed to take paint well. In fact, most boards come pre-primed from the factory, which makes the painting process easier. 

And even if your siding has been up for a while, you can freshen it up with a new color whenever you’re ready.

One thing to keep in mind is prep. The paint only sticks as well as the surface allows, so cleaning, repairing, and priming (if needed) are super important. 

Once the prep work is handled, Hardie board actually holds paint much better than some other siding materials, like wood, which can peel or warp. Done properly, you’re looking at a paint job that lasts 8 – 12 years or more.

Also Read: 8 Reasons Why James Hardie Siding Is Worth It

What Kind Of Paint Works Best?

The best option for Hardie Board is 100% acrylic latex exterior paint. 

This type bonds tightly to the siding, resists cracking, and handles sun, rain, and temperature swings like a champ.

Oil-based paints? Skip them. They don’t adhere well to fiber cement and can actually shorten the life of your paint job. Stick to acrylic latex for a smooth, durable finish.

For sheen, satin or semi-gloss are popular choices. 

Satin gives you a subtle look that hides imperfections but still cleans easily. Semi-gloss is shinier and reflects more light, which makes it easier to wash but also highlights flaws. 

Either way, you’ll end up with a finish that looks fresh and sharp.

How To Paint Hardie Board

Here’s the fun part: actually getting paint on the boards. But before you dip that brush, make sure you move through the steps in order:

#1 Clean The Surface

If your Hardie board has a layer of dirt, dust, or mildew on it, the paint won’t stick. 

A quick rinse with a garden hose often does the job, but for tougher spots, a gentle pressure wash or a scrub with a soft brush and mild detergent works best.

Don’t go too heavy with the pressure washer, though – you don’t want to damage the siding. 

Once you’ve rinsed everything down, give it time to dry completely, since painting over even slightly damp boards can trap moisture and lead to peeling later on.

Also Read: Caulk Cracking Around Windows

2 Repair Cracks Or Gaps, Then Caulk

Take a good look around your siding after it’s clean. Small cracks, holes, or gaps may not seem like a big deal now, but they’ll show through once the paint goes on. 

Patch these areas so the finish looks seamless. 

Run a smooth bead of high-quality exterior caulk around windows, doors, trim, and joints. 

This doesn’t just make things look better but it also helps seal out water and pests. Let the caulk cure according to the instructions before you move on.

#3 Prime

If your boards came factory-primed, you can usually skip this step for the full surface. 

If your siding isn’t primed, a coat of acrylic primer is essential. It creates a sticky base for your paint and helps ensure even color. 

Any spots you repaired or caulked should also be primed, even if the rest of the siding was already done at the factory. 

Primer is the bonding agent that ties everything together so your final coats go on smooth and last longer.

Also Read: How Much Does Siding Cost In Minnesota?

#4 Paint The Hardie Board

Now it’s time to paint!

Choose a good brush or roller for detail work and larger surfaces, or go with a sprayer if you want to save time on big areas. 

If you spray, make sure to back-roll with a roller so the paint works into the texture of the siding. Work in manageable sections so you’re not racing against drying paint, and always keep a wet edge to avoid streaks or lap marks. 

Be patient and focus on even coverage instead of rushing.

#5 Apply Two Thin Coats For Durability

This is one of those steps where patience pays off. 

Thick, heavy coats might look like they cover faster, but they tend to crack, peel, or bubble down the road. Instead, lay down a light first coat, let it dry completely, then come back with a second thin coat. 

The two layers bond together and form a tougher finish that holds up to weather, sun, and daily wear much better. 

It may feel like extra work, but it’s the difference between a job that lasts a couple of years and one that lasts a decade or more.

Also Read: Can You Put New Siding Over Old Wood Siding? 

#6 Let It Dry

Don’t rush this part since it’s just as important as applying the paint. 

Acrylic paints usually dry to the touch in a few hours, but that doesn’t mean they’re fully cured. It can take days for the paint to harden and form a durable shell. 

Check the paint can for the recommended drying and curing times, and give it the space

While it’s drying, avoid leaning things against the siding, moving outdoor furniture too close, or letting sprinklers hit the freshly painted surface. 

Once it’s fully cured, you’re set with a finish that looks sharp and lasts.

Bottom Line

You can paint on Hardie Board or Hardie Planks. With the right prep and the right paint, your siding will look fresh, protect your home, and stay sharp for years. 

Clean, repair, prime, paint, and be patient – those six steps are all it takes. 

Once you’re done, you’ll have a finish that doesn’t just look good but also stands up to the elements like a champ.

Thinking about giving your home a fresh new look or updating that old, worn-out siding?

Maybe you’ve heard of James Hardie and are wondering if it’s really as good as everyone says.

Well, it’s true! James Hardie siding is one of the most popular choices out there—and for good reason. It’s tough, low-maintenance, and looks amazing.

In this post, we’re going to walk through 8 reasons why James Hardie siding is totally worth the investment.

#1 It’s Seriously Durable

James Hardie siding is built to last.

It’s made of fiber cement, which is way tougher than regular wood or vinyl. We’re talking about siding that can stand up to wind, rain, and all kinds of tough weather conditions.

No more worrying about your siding cracking, warping, or fading after just a few seasons.

It’s designed to hold up for decades, which means you’re not going to be dealing with repairs or replacements anytime soon. That’s peace of mind right there.

Also Read: Can You Put New Siding Over Old Wood Siding?

#2 Hardly Needs Maintenance

Now, this is music to most homeowners’ ears.

Once it’s up, there’s not a lot you need to do. No annual scraping, patching, or babysitting. It doesn’t rot. It won’t swell or buckle from moisture. And it holds paint really well—like way longer than wood.

You’ll still want to give it a good rinse every now and then to keep it looking fresh.

But beyond that? Pretty hands-off. Less time on ladders, more time doing literally anything else.

#3 Fire Resistance

If you live in a fire-prone area, fire resistance is a big deal. James Hardie siding doesn’t ignite when exposed to flame. It won’t melt like vinyl siding or catch fire like wood.

In a world where wildfires seem more common every year, this can literally save your home.

Most insurance companies recognize this benefit too. Many homeowners see reduced insurance premiums after installing fiber cement siding.

The material is classified as non-combustible, earning it high marks with building codes everywhere.

#4 Gives Your Home A Great Look

Curb appeal matters! James Hardie siding comes in tons of styles and colors.

Want the classic look of wood without the maintenance headaches? No problem. Looking for something more modern? They’ve got you covered.

You can choose from:

• Lap siding for that traditional horizontal look
• Board-and-batten for a distinctive vertical style
• Shingle siding for that charming coastal vibe

The textures look authentic too – not fake or plastic-like. Many people can’t tell the difference between James Hardie and real wood from the street.

Plus, the color options are practically endless. You can find the perfect shade to match your vision or completely transform your home’s appearance.

#5 Great Warranty

James Hardie stands behind their product in a big way.

They offer a 30-year non-prorated warranty on their siding. This isn’t one of those warranties with a million loopholes and exceptions. It’s straightforward and comprehensive.

The ColorPlus Technology finish even comes with its own 15-year warranty against fading, chipping, and peeling.

This warranty is transferable too, which adds value if you decide to sell your home.

This kind of peace of mind is worth its weight in gold. If anything does go wrong, you’ve got backup. That’s not something you can always count on with other siding materials.

Also Read: How Much Does A Roof Inspection Cost In Minnesota?

#6 Keeps Pests Away

Bugs and critters love wood siding. They see it as both food and shelter.

But they don’t love fiber cement. The fiber cement offers zero nutritional value to insects. Termites can’t eat it. Woodpeckers won’t drill into it. Rodents can’t chew through it easily.

This means your home’s exterior stays intact. No surprise holes or damage from unwanted visitors. No need for those expensive pest control treatments specifically for your siding.

Your home stays looking pristine year after year, without becoming a bug buffet.

#7 It Holds Up In Tough Weather

We all know that Mother Nature can be unpredictable. Extreme heat, freezing cold, heavy rain, you name it. But James Hardie siding can handle it.

Fiber cement doesn’t expand or contract like wood does in changing temperatures, so you won’t see cracks or gaps forming after a tough winter.

It also resists damage from things like hail and heavy wind, so you won’t be replacing pieces every time there’s a storm.

This durability makes it perfect for homes in areas with harsh weather conditions.

#8 Helps With Energy Savings

If you want to lower your energy bills, James Hardie siding can help with that too.

The fiber cement is a good insulator, which means it keeps heat inside during the winter and helps keep your house cooler in the summer. Less energy used means lower utility bills, and who doesn’t like saving a little cash each month?

Plus, if you pair it with good insulation, you’re really optimizing your home’s energy efficiency.

The Downsides Of James Hardie Siding

Let’s be honest – nothing’s perfect. James Hardie siding costs more upfront than vinyl siding. You’re looking at roughly 30-50% higher initial investment. Installation is also more labor-intensive, which adds to the cost.

Plus, the material is heavy. Really heavy. This makes installation more challenging and typically not a DIY project.

You’ll need professional installers who know what they’re doing. And it can be damaged by improper installation. If the contractors cut corners, you might face issues down the road.

So choosing the right installation team matters almost as much as choosing the siding itself.

Also Check Out Our James Hardie Siding Installation Services

When Is James Hardie Siding Worth It?

James Hardie is 100% worth considering if:

• You plan to stay in your home for 7+ years (to recoup the investment)
• You live in an area with extreme weather conditions
• Your current siding needs frequent repairs or maintenance
• You want to increase your home’s value and curb appeal

It’s especially worth considering if you’re tired of painting wood siding every few years or if you’ve had issues with vinyl siding cracking or warping.

The long-term savings on maintenance alone can justify the higher upfront cost.

But if you’re flipping a house or want the absolute cheapest option short-term, this probably isn’t the one. You’ll get more bang for your buck if you’re thinking of the big picture.

Bottom Line

At the end of the day, James Hardie siding is an investment that pays off.

It’s durable, requires almost no maintenance, and looks great. Plus, it offers added protection from pests, extreme weather, and even fire.

If you’re looking for a siding option that can handle it all and still keep your home looking sharp, James Hardie is definitely worth considering. It’s a solid choice that’ll serve you well for years to come.

So, if you’re ready for an upgrade, this might just be the perfect fit for your home!

If you’re thinking about replacing or installing siding on your home in Minnesota, one of the first questions you probably have is, “How much is this going to cost?”

The truth is, the cost of installing siding can vary a lot.

It depends on the material you choose, the size of your home, and other factors.

In this guide, we’ll give you a clear idea of how much siding costs in Minnesota, and share some of our own rates to help you plan your budget.

How Much Does Siding Cost In Minnesota?

Siding costs about $4 – $13 per square foot in Minnesota.

For an average 2,500-square-foot house, you’re looking at somewhere between $10,000 and $32,500. The final price depends on your home’s size, layout, and the type of siding you go for.

And if you’ve got old siding that needs to be removed first, that’ll add an extra $0.70 to $2.00 per square foot.

Also Read: How much does a roof inspection cost

Average Siding Costs In Minnesota By Material

The cost of siding in Minnesota can differ quite a bit depending on the material.

Some options, like vinyl, are more budget-friendly, while others, like stone or brick, can be a bit more expensive because of the materials and installation labor.

Here’s a rough idea of what you can expect to pay per square foot for different types of siding:

Siding Material	Cost per Square Foot Installed	Cost For A 2,500 SF House
Vinyl	$4 – $12	$10,000 – $30,000
Masonite	$4 – $8	$10,000 – $20,000
Board and Batten	$5 – $13	$12,500 – $32,500
Log / Wood	$5 – $15	$12,500 – $37,500
Cedar	$6 – $16	$15,000 – $40,000
Aluminum	$6 – $10	$15,000 – $25,000
Fiber Cement	$6 – $15	$15,000 – $37,500
Engineered Wood	$7 – $12	$12,500 – $37,500
Steel	$7 – $16	$17,500 – $40,000
Stucco	$7 – $17	$17,500 – $42,500
Brick	$8 – $18	$20,000 – $45,000
Stone	$10 – $45	$10,000 – $25,000*

Our Siding Prices

Our siding installation costs around $27,000 to $38,000 for an averaged sized home.

We’re a James Hardie contractor, which means you’re getting work from a trained, vetted, and proven professional. Unlike regular contractors, we’ve gone through extensive training on James Hardie’s best practices, maintain proper insurance, and have a proven track record of high-quality installations.

Here’s what’s included in our siding installation:

• Removing and disposing of old siding
• Inspecting and repairing the exterior walls if needed
• Installing siding
• Sealing and flashing
• Painting or finishing touches to make it look perfect
• Full cleanup so your home looks great when we’re done

Check Out Our James Hardie profile here.

Factors That Affect The Cost Of Siding

Now that you have a general idea of siding costs, let’s take a look at the factors that can make the price go up or down in Minnesota:

#1 Siding Material

As you already saw, the siding material you pick is the biggest price factor.

Vinyl is the cheapest, no doubt, but it’s not as durable as other options like fiber cement or steel. If you want something that lasts a long time, you might look at those.

Wood siding can look amazing, especially if you go for something like cedar, but it’ll cost more.

On the other hand, brick or stone veneer is really sturdy, and they last forever, but the expensive.

#2 Home Size

It’s pretty simple – the bigger your house, the more siding you’ll need.

Larger homes will naturally require more materials, which increases the overall cost of the job.

The total square footage of your home will directly impact the number of materials required, and larger homes can easily push the cost into the higher end of the range.

Plus, larger homes may have more intricate features like multiple stories, porches, and architectural details. These features not only require more time to install but also more precision, which can drive up labor costs.

#3 Labor

Labor costs are another major factor in how much your siding project will cost.

Contractors charge based on a few things:

• How much work is involved
• How complicated the job is
• Local cost of labor

Generally, labor costs range from $3 to $5 per square foot, but this can vary depending on where you live and how much experience the contractor has.

Labor might cost more if your home has a lot of custom features, like ornate trim, multiple angles, or if you’re choosing a more complicated siding material that requires more expertise to install (like fiber cement or cedar).

#4 Removal Of Old Siding

If you’ve got old siding that needs to be taken down before the new stuff goes up, that’s going to add to your total cost.

You can’t just slap new siding on top of the old – everything needs to come off.

The removal typically runs between $1 and $2 per square foot, but it could be higher if your old siding is tough to get off, like brick or wood shingles.

Plus, if the old siding contains asbestos or is otherwise hazardous, removal could become more complicated and expensive. In this case, you’ll want to factor in additional costs for safe removal and disposal.

Also Read: Can You Put New Siding Over Old Wood Siding?

#5 Repairs Before Installations

Before you install the new siding, you’ll need to check the underlying structure of your home.

If there’s any water damage, mold, or rot, that needs to be fixed before the siding goes up. If you don’t take care of these issues, you could run into bigger problems down the line.

Any repairs will obviously add to the overall cost of the project.

The good news is, a lot of contractors will offer a free inspection as part of their estimate. They’ll check out your home and point out any repairs that need to be made before the siding goes up.

#6 Your Location

Where you live in Minnesota also affects siding costs.

If you’re in a bigger city, like Minneapolis or St. Paul, the labor tends to be more expensive because there’s more demand for skilled contractors.

On the flip side, rural areas may have lower labor costs, but you might have fewer contractors to choose from, and it could be harder to find someone with the right experience for your project.

Materials can also get more expensive if they have to be shipped from far away, so if you live in a more remote area, be prepared for that.

#7 Permits And Inspections

Some cities or counties in Minnesota require a permit for siding installation, while others don’t.

If a permit is required, you’ll need to factor in the cost of acquiring it.

Permits can cost anywhere from $50 to a few hundred dollars, depending on where you live.

After the siding is installed, there may also be an inspection fee, especially if you’re using materials like fiber cement or stone veneer.

Also Read: Who To Call For Leaking Windows?

Best Siding Options For Minnesota’s Climate

Minnesota has all four seasons, with harsh winters and hot summers, so it’s important to choose a siding that can handle those extremes.

Here are the top siding options that can stand up to the Minnesota climate:

• Vinyl siding: Affordable, low-maintenance, and good for extreme temperatures.
• Fiber cement: Durable, low-maintenance, and resistant to weather.
• Steel siding: Tough, fire-resistant, and handles the cold well.

Bottom Line

At the end of the day, siding your home is a big investment, but it’s one that can pay off.

The cost will depend on factors like the material, the size of your home, and where you live in Minnesota. On average, expect to spend anywhere from $10,000 and $32,500.

Thinking about sprucing up your home’s exterior, but you’re not sure if you should tear down that old wood siding or just slap some new siding right over it?

Honestly, it’s a tough call.

On one hand, completely replacing the siding gives you a clean slate and a guarantee of a durable, long-lasting exterior.

On the other hand, overlaying new siding over the old can seem like a convenient, cost-effective solution… but what if it’s just a recipe for disaster down the line?

In this quick post, we’ll help you decide if you should put new siding over old wood siding.

Can You Put New Siding Over Old Wood Siding?

The short answer is yes, you can put new siding over old wood siding.

But hold on, it’s not as simple as just going for it. There are a few things you need to check first.

Your old wood siding needs to be in great shape – no rot, no mold, and no major damage. Plus, it should be pretty flat and even so the new siding has a nice surface to stick to.

Also Check Out Our: Vinyl Siding Installation Services

If you’ve got those boxes checked, then you might be able to save some time and money by putting new siding right over the old stuff.

But don’t get too excited yet – there’s more to think about before you make your decision.

Things To Consider Before Putting New Siding

Here are a few things you should consider before making a decision:

#1 Condition Of Old Siding

Before you even think about putting new siding over the old stuff, you gotta make sure the wood underneath is solid.

Any signs of rot, mold, or damage? Those need to be dealt with first.

If your old siding is falling apart, putting new siding over it is just asking for trouble. You could end up with moisture getting trapped and causing even more damage. 

So, before you do anything, take a good, hard look at your old siding. 

Check for any hidden problems too, like bugs or structural issues. 

If you find any damaged spots, you’ll need to fix those up before you even think about putting on new siding.

#2 Moisture Barriers

If you’re going to put new siding over old, you need to think about moisture. You don’t want water getting trapped between the old and new siding – that’s a recipe for mold and rot. 

So, you’ll need to put in a moisture barrier. 

Think of it like a raincoat for your house. It keeps water from sneaking in and causing trouble. 

Without this barrier, you could be setting yourself up for some serious problems down the road.

Also Read: Gap between window and frame

#3 New Siding Material

The type of new siding you pick is super important for making sure this project goes smoothly. 

Some types, like vinyl, can work well over old wood siding if everything’s in good shape and you’ve got that moisture barrier in place. 

But here’s a heads up: some siding manufacturers might not be too happy if you install their product over old siding. In fact, they might even say your warranty is no good if you do. 

So, it’s a good idea to talk with a pro about what kind of siding will work best for your situation.

#4 Wall Thickness

Here’s something you might not have thought about: putting new siding over old is going to make your walls thicker. No big deal, right? Well, it can be. 

You might find that your windows and doors don’t fit quite right anymore. 

You might even need to adjust them or get new ones to match your thicker walls. 

So, think about how this change might affect the look of your house and maybe even how well it keeps the heat in or out.

#5 Aesthetic And Structural Concerns

Sure, putting new siding over old might save you some cash now, but think about the long-term. 

Will it make your house look a bit off? 

Could it affect how much your home is worth? 

And what about when you need to do repairs or maintenance in the future? 

It might make things trickier. So, you’ve got to weigh whether saving some money now is worth any potential headaches down the road.

#6 Permits And Local Building Codes

Before you get too carried away with your siding plans, you need to check in with the people at your local building department. 

Some areas may have rules about siding – they might say you can layer it, or they might tell you that you have to take the old stuff off first. 

You need to comply with these regulations. It’s not just about following the rules (which is important!), it’s also about making sure your home is safe and up to standards.

Also Read: 1/2 Or 5/8 Roof Sheathing?

#7 Void Warranties

Here’s something that’s easy to forget about: warranties. 

Some siding companies might say their warranty is no good if you put their siding over old siding. 

That means if something goes wrong, you’re on your own. 

So, make sure you read the fine print on your new siding and maybe even give the manufacturer a call to see how your installation plans might affect your coverage.

When To Remove Old Wood Siding Before Installing New

While putting new siding over old can work in some situations, there are times when you really should just tear off the old wood siding before putting up the new one. 

You might need to take off the old siding first if:

• The old siding is rotting, moldy, or seriously damaged 
• You’re worried about hidden problems like bugs or water damage 
• Your local building codes say you have to remove the old siding 
• You want your home to be as energy efficient and good-looking as possible 
• The new siding you picked isn’t meant to be installed over old siding 
• You want to keep the full warranty on your new siding

Wrapping Up

Deciding whether to put new siding over old wood siding is a big deal. 

It might save you some money and time upfront, but it also comes with some risks and things to think about for the future.

You’ve got to really look at your old siding, think about moisture issues, consider how it’ll change your walls, and make sure you’re following all the rules. And don’t forget about those warranties! 

Talk to a pro, do your homework, and think about what’s best for your home in the long run. 

FAQs

Should You Put Vinyl Siding Over Wood Siding?

Yes, you can put vinyl siding over wood siding as long as the wood is in good shape. Just make sure it’s clean, smooth, and free from any damage like rot.

Can You Put New Siding Over Old Siding On A Mobile Home?

Yes, you can install new siding over old siding on a mobile home, but then again, it’s important to ensure the existing siding is in good condition.

You might need to add a moisture barrier or some insulation before putting the new siding on.