

A walk-out home in Eden Prairie had years of woodpecker damage to its cedar siding. We installed James Hardie lap siding in Arctic White, added Marvin Signature Series windows, and accented the entry with Boral Beadboard on the ceiling. The result is a woodpecker-resistant exterior with modern curb appeal.
Project Specs
- Location: Eden Prairie, Minnesota
- Home Style: Walk-Out
- Problem: Dated Cedar Siding and worn out leaky windows.
- Solution: James Hardie HardiePlank lap siding and Marvin Signature Series Windows
- Color: Arctic White (body)
- Accents: Marvin Aluminum Clad Windows in black
- Result: Significantly reduced future maintenance and upgraded curb appeal
- Certifications: James Hardie Elite Preferred and Marvin Authorized Contractor
Project Overview
This residence in Eden Prairie received a complete exterior makeover that brought new life and lasting performance to their home. The project began with the removal of the home’s original cedar siding, which had weathered and required ongoing maintenance.

Once the cedar siding was removed, our team installed James Hardie Smooth lap siding in Arctic White, a timeless choice that offers both curb appeal and resilience against Minnesota’s harsh climate. To complement the siding, all trim, soffits, and fascia were finished in Arctic White, creating a clean, classic look.

In addition to the siding, the homeowners wanted to address their outdated, drafty windows. We replaced them with sleek Black Marvin windows, which not only improved energy efficiency but also added striking contrast against the crisp white siding. This upgrade modernized the home’s overall appearance while providing long-term durability.

A highlight of the project is the Boral beadboard entryway ceiling, which gives the front entrance a welcoming, detailed touch. Combined with new trim details, custom shutters, and a refreshed gable vent, the home now blends classic design elements with modern performance.

Now, the home is protected from damage and stands out with a clean, modern finish that will last for years.
FAQs
1. Is Fiber Cement Siding Better than Wood Siding?
Fiber cement siding, like James Hardie, offers major advantages over wood. It resists rot, pests, and woodpecker damage while maintaining its appearance with far less maintenance. In this Eden Prairie remodel, replacing damaged cedar with James Hardie Arctic White siding gave the homeowners a durable, low-maintenance solution that still looks timeless.
2. Do Black Windows Fade Over Time?
Modern black windows, like the Marvin Signature Series used here, are finished with durable coatings that resist fading and chalking. This ensures the sleek, bold look lasts for years, even in Minnesota’s harsh sun and winter conditions.
3. Do Black Windows Look Good With Brick Homes?
Yes, black windows pair beautifully with brick exteriors. They add crisp definition and a modern edge that complements the natural warmth and texture of brick. In this project, combining black Marvin windows with classic red brick and Arctic White James Hardie siding created a balanced design that feels both timeless and contemporary.
4. What Makes James Hardie Siding A Good Choice For Minnesota’s Climate?
James Hardie siding is engineered specifically for extreme climates, including cold winters, humid summers, and heavy snow. It won’t warp, rot, or crack like cedar or vinyl, making it a smart long-term investment for Minnesota homes.
5. What Small Design Upgrades Add The Biggest Impact?
Details like beadboard ceilings, custom shutters, and accent trim can dramatically elevate curb appeal. On this Eden Prairie home, the new Boral beadboard entryway ceiling and refreshed gable vent gave the exterior a welcoming, finished look.
Glossary
- Fiber-cement: A durable siding material made from cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. It’s known for resisting weather, insects, and woodpecker damage.
- Lap siding: A type of horizontal siding where each board overlaps the one below. Commonly used for its classic look and ability to shed water.
- Marvin Signature Series: Marvin’s premium window line that offers exceptional design flexibility, high-performance materials, and timeless style. On Minnesota homes, Signature Series windows provide lasting durability and energy efficiency while elevating curb appeal.