The James Hardie siding warranty is one of the strongest in the industry. It’s built to give lasting protection, but that only holds when every step of the installation follows the company’s standards. Even small mistakes during setup can limit or void coverage.
Our job is to meet every guideline so your James Hardie siding warranty stays valid and your home keeps the full protection it deserves.
What Does the Warranty Cover and How Long?
James Hardie backs its siding for 30 years. The coverage is non-prorated, so it does not fade with time. This protects against defects in the material when the installation meets the written guide.
Hardie also lists clear installation rules. These rules are not suggestions. They are required to keep coverage. When we work on a home, we verify each step with the guide in hand.
Key Takeaway: Non-prorated for 30 years is a great value, but only if the install matches the book.
What Mistakes Void Coverage?
Some errors look small but cause big problems. These are the most common issues that can void a claim:
- Not enough clearance above sidewalks, decks, and soil
- Missing kickout flashing where a roof meets a wall
- Bad flashing over windows, doors, and band boards
- Nails placed wrong or over-driven through the board
- Joints not sealed or flashed per the guide
- Paint or caulk is not rated for fiber cement
Pro Tip: Ask your installer to show photos of each step. A photo log proves that clearances, nails, joints, and flashing match the guide.
Need expert help with a James Hardie project? Contact Craftsman’s Choice for a free consultation. We install to the letter so your coverage stays intact.
Installation Requirements for Minnesota Homes
Minnesota weather is harsh. Snow, ice, and freeze-thaw cycles push water into every gap. Hardie products are made for this climate, but details matter.
Required Clearances and Roofline Details
We keep proper clearance from grade and hard surfaces. This lets water drain and keeps splashback off the lower boards. At rooflines, we install kickout flashing to move water into the gutter and away from the wall. These small parts stop leaks and paint failure.
Flashing and Water Management
We flash all horizontal breaks and trim tops. We protect every joint with approved flashing or sealant, based on the guide. This builds a simple path for water to exit the wall. Dry walls last. Wet walls fail.
Key Takeaway: Water wins if you give it a path into the wall. Proper clearances and flashing take that path away.
How to Protect Your James Hardie Siding Warranty
Set up your project with these steps so the warranty stays valid:
- Hire a crew that installs Hardie every day. Ask for references and photos.
- Review the written Hardie install guide with your project manager.
- Confirm clearances, flashing, and joint layouts on site before work starts.
- Use the right fasteners, caulk, and paint for fiber cement.
- Keep a photo record of each wall and detail.
- Schedule a final walk-through to verify every line item.
We build our process around these steps. You get clean work and full coverage.
What Happens if the Installation is Wrong?
Repairs can cost far more than doing it right at the start. If a claim is denied, you pay to fix leaks, replace soft sheathing, and repaint large areas. You may also face mold cleanup or trim rebuilds. Protecting the James Hardie siding warranty is the cheapest path.
Why Choose Us
We follow the guide for every home. Our crews know Minnesota codes, weather, and best practices. We measure twice, document details, and deliver clean lines with strong water control. That is how we keep your James Hardie siding warranty in force.
Final Next Step
Ready to protect your home and your coverage? Schedule a free quote with Craftsman’s Choice. We will review your walls, explain each step, and install your James Hardie siding the right way so you get full value for the next 30 years.
