How much maintenance does James Hardie Fiber Cement Siding require?

While James Hardie® siding is very low maintenance, the manufacturer does suggest the following care and maintenance for their siding in the unlikely occurrence of the following:

• Patching - Dents, chips, and cracks can be filled using a good quality cement patching compound (acrylic mortar patch) which can be found at your local home center or hardware store.

• Mold/Mildew - Remove using a commercial mold/mildew remover. Consult your paint manufacturer’s recommendations before applying any mold or mildew remover.

• Loose Siding or Soffit - Re-nail using a properly-sized corrosion-resistant fastener.

• Caulk Replacement - When sealant is in need of replacing, carefully remove existing caulk and replace with a high quality, paintable latex caulk.

• Paint Maintenance - Remove any damaged, chipped, or cracked paint. Prior to repainting, make sure that the surface area is properly cleaned and prepared. Repaint immediately using 100% acrylic paint.

• Product Replacement - Replacement of one or more pieces of James Hardie®  siding product should be done in accordance with James Hardie’s written installation requirements and best practice guides.

How often should you clean James Hardie fiber cement siding?

According to James Hardie's website, their fiber cement siding should be cleaned at least once a year to maintain its appearance and prevent buildup of dirt and grime. Here are their recommended cleaning instructions:

1. Use a soft-bristle brush or low-pressure washer: A soft-bristle brush or low-pressure washer can be used to remove dirt and grime from the siding. Do not use a high-pressure washer, as this can damage the siding.

2. Use mild soap and water: James Hardie recommends using a mild soap and water solution to clean the siding. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents, as these can damage the siding.

3. Rinse thoroughly: After cleaning, rinse the siding thoroughly with a hose or low-pressure washer.

4. Avoid contact with caustic chemicals: James Hardie warns that their siding should not come into contact with any caustic chemicals, such as paint thinners, strippers, or cleaners. These chemicals can damage the siding and void the warranty.

5. Inspect the siding for damage: While cleaning the siding, it's a good idea to inspect it for any damage, such as cracks or chips. These should be repaired promptly to prevent water intrusion and further damage.

It's important to follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions to ensure that your siding is cleaned safely and effectively, without causing damage or voiding the warranty.

Is James Hardie maintenance a DIY project?

Yes, it is generally okay to clean your James Hardie fiber cement siding yourself, as long as you follow the manufacturer's instructions and use caution to avoid causing damage.

Southwest Exteriors offers a limited lifetime warranty on our James Hardie® siding projects, so we would happily take care of any of these issues on our clients’ homes, should the problems arise.