The Importance of Choosing the Right James Hardie Siding Finish
James Hardie fiber cement siding is a top choice for homeowners seeking durability, beauty, and long-term protection. When selecting HardiePlank siding, homeowners must decide between ColorPlus® Technology—a pre-finished, factory-applied paint coating—or PrimePlus®, which arrives primed and ready for on-site painting.
Each option has distinct advantages in terms of cost, customization, longevity, and maintenance. Understanding the differences between these two finishes will ensure the best decision for a home’s long-term curb appeal and performance.
What Is HardiePlank ColorPlus® Technology?
Advanced Factory-Applied Finish
ColorPlus siding undergoes a meticulous multi-step painting process at the James Hardie manufacturing facility. The boards receive multiple coats of proprietary, fade-resistant paint, baked onto the fiber cement surface for a strong bond.
This factory-controlled process ensures uniform color, increased durability, and superior resistance to UV rays, chipping, and peeling.
Key Benefits of Hardie ColorPlus Siding
- Time-Saving Installation
With pre-finished boards, there is no need for additional painting after installation. This reduces labor time and eliminates weather-related painting delays. - Consistent, High-Quality Finish
Factory-applied paint is evenly coated, eliminating streaks, roller marks, or uneven coverage. - Superior UV Resistance
The baked-on coating resists fading better than standard exterior house paint, maintaining vibrancy for years. - Lower Maintenance Costs
Unlike field-applied paint, ColorPlus siding doesn’t require frequent touch-ups or repainting, reducing long-term maintenance expenses. - Less Risk of Mess and Overspray
Homeowners avoid the hassle of exterior painting, which can result in drips, stains, and overspray on landscaping and windows.
What Is HardiePlank PrimePlus® Siding?
Factory-Primed for On-Site Customization
PrimePlus siding is delivered with a factory-applied primer, allowing homeowners to choose and apply custom exterior paint after installation. This option is ideal for those who desire maximum color flexibility or need a finish tailored to their home’s architectural style.
Key Benefits of Hardie PrimePlus Siding
- Greater Color Selection
Homeowners can choose any exterior paint brand and color, allowing for full creative control over the final appearance. - Easier Seam and Caulk Blending
Painting after installation ensures better blending of caulked seams and fastener holes, creating a seamless look. - Simplified Touch-Up and Repainting
Since the paint is applied on-site, it is easier to match the color for future touch-ups or full repainting. - Potential Cost Savings on Materials
Initial material costs are slightly lower than ColorPlus siding, although additional expenses for painting should be factored in.
Comparing Hardie ColorPlus vs. PrimePlus
1. Color and Aesthetic Durability
- ColorPlus: Pre-finished paint is baked on, providing a long-lasting, fade-resistant finish with minimal upkeep.
- PrimePlus: The finish depends on the quality of the field-applied paint, which may require more frequent repainting over time.
2. Cost Considerations
- ColorPlus: Higher initial cost but saves on painting labor and long-term maintenance.
- PrimePlus: Lower upfront cost, but additional expenses for professional painting and future repainting should be considered.
3. Installation Process
- ColorPlus: Faster installation with no need for additional painting.
- PrimePlus: Requires scheduling and coordinating on-site painting, which can be impacted by weather conditions.
4. Maintenance and Longevity
- ColorPlus: Resists peeling, cracking, and chipping, reducing the need for repainting.
- PrimePlus: Requires repainting every 7-10 years, depending on climate conditions and paint quality.
5. Best Fit for Homeowners
- Choose ColorPlus if:
- You want a low-maintenance, long-lasting finish.
- You prefer a faster installation without additional painting.
- You want superior UV resistance to minimize fading.
- Choose PrimePlus if:
- You want complete freedom in selecting a custom color.
- You prefer to blend seams and caulking for a seamless look.
- You don’t mind the added maintenance of repainting every few years.
Expert Installation Matters
No matter which James Hardie finish is chosen, professional installation is essential for maximum durability, performance, and manufacturer warranty compliance. Improper installation, including painting errors on PrimePlus siding, can lead to peeling, cracking, and premature wear.
180 Contractors Roofing & Siding, located in Rochester Hills, MI, specializes in expert installation of both Hardie ColorPlus and PrimePlus siding. Our highly trained professionals ensure that each board is precisely installed for long-lasting protection.
We take pride in our industry certifications and achievements:
BBB A+ Accredited
Guildmaster (GuildQuality) Award Winner
INC 5000 Recognition
Google Guaranteed Contractor
Qualified Remodeler Top 100 Satisfaction
By choosing a trusted, experienced contractor, homeowners ensure their siding investment stands the test of time.
Conclusion
Both HardiePlank ColorPlus and PrimePlus siding offer exceptional quality, durability, and curb appeal. Homeowners seeking a low-maintenance, factory-finished solution should opt for ColorPlus, while those desiring customization flexibility may prefer PrimePlus.
Regardless of choice, expert installation by a certified contractor is crucial for maximizing performance and longevity. By selecting the right finish and professional installation team, homeowners can enjoy a beautiful, resilient home exterior for decades.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Hardie ColorPlus siding worth the extra cost?
Yes, ColorPlus siding offers long-term savings by eliminating painting labor, reducing maintenance, and providing a fade-resistant, factory-applied finish.
2. How long does James Hardie PrimePlus siding last before needing repainting?
PrimePlus siding typically requires repainting every 7-10 years, depending on climate conditions and the quality of exterior paint used.
3. Does ColorPlus siding have fewer color options than PrimePlus?
ColorPlus offers a curated selection of pre-finished colors, while PrimePlus allows homeowners to choose any paint color from any brand.
4. Can I repaint Hardie ColorPlus siding?
Yes, but it is not necessary for many years. If a color change is desired, ColorPlus siding can be repainted with 100% acrylic exterior paint.
5. Which option is better for resale value?
ColorPlus siding often holds higher resale value due to its low maintenance, long-lasting color, and uniform factory finish. However, PrimePlus may be preferred by buyers seeking a fully customized look.
Read also our blog: The Key Benefits of Installing Hardie Board Siding
