Deciding on the best siding for your home isn’t always easy, especially with brands like Everlast Advanced Composite Siding and James Hardie Fiber Cement Siding. Both have earned their reputations for being strong and reliable, but they offer different benefits depending on what you’re looking for. To help you figure out which siding might suit your home best, we’ll compare them in terms of durability, maintenance, and cost, giving you a clearer picture of what each has to offer.
Strength and Durability
When it comes to siding, both Everlast and James Hardie are built to last, but they handle the elements a little differently.
- Everlast Siding is an Advanced Composite Siding brand, made from a mix of inorganic minerals and polymer resins, which makes it super resistant to moisture, rot, and pests. It’s great for humid climates and doesn’t warp or swell, which is a big plus if you live in a wetter area.
- James Hardie Siding, made from fiber cement, is known for being tough. It can handle extreme temperatures, whether it’s blazing hot or freezing cold. However, fiber cement can be more prone to moisture issues in very wet or coastal climates over time.
Our Verdict
If your home is in a wet climate, Everlast will hold up better, while James Hardie does great in dry or more extreme weather conditions.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Most people prefer siding that doesn’t require a lot of work, and this is where Everlast and James Hardie really differ.
- Everlast Siding is basically maintenance-free. No need to repaint or reseal—just give it a quick wash every now and then, and you’re good to go. Everlast allows for contraction and expansion and is installed like vinyl siding which allows it to adapt to the weather changes. Everlast siding utilizes UV-resistant acrylic capstock which ensures long term fade resistance and color retention. It’s ideal if you want something that looks great without all the upkeep.
- James Hardie Siding, on the other hand, needs more attention. You’ll have to repaint it every few years, and in some climates, you might need to reseal it to protect against moisture. James Hardie uses butt joints that do not allow for a lot of contraction and expansion. This leads to the panels shifting and moving away from each other over time. The painted exterior of James Hardie siding does not last long and there is only a thin layer of paint on this product. When there is a cut made with a saw the paint will come off of the edges of the panels which requires touch up paint routinely. This product comes with more responsibility when it comes to maintenance.
Our Verdict
If you want siding that’s easy to care for, Everlast is the way to go. But if you’re okay with doing a little extra work, James Hardie might still be a good fit.
Design Options and Flexibility
Both Everlast and James Hardie offer ways to give your home a custom look, but their options differ when it comes to flexibility.
- Everlast Siding comes with a CedarTouch finish that gives it the natural look of wood without the maintenance. It’s available in 14 pre-finished colors, like Cabernet Red, Blue Spruce, and Misty Taupe, designed to last without fading. Everlast Siding also comes in 3 design options, 7” lap siding, 4 ½” lap siding, and board & batten. Since the colors are built into the siding, you won’t need to repaint or worry about chips or scratches showing over time.
- James Hardie Siding is all about customization. It’s paintable, which means you can choose any color you like, and you have the flexibility to repaint it if you want to refresh your home’s look down the road. James Hardie also offers a range of textures, including smooth, wood grain, and beaded lap, which can suit a variety of architectural styles.
How to Pick
So, if you prefer a low-maintenance option with a set color palette, Everlast could be the way to go. But if you want more control over the color and texture of your siding, James Hardie gives you that extra flexibility.
Cost: Initial Investment vs. Long-Term Value
Price is always a factor when choosing siding, and Everlast and James Hardie have different cost structures.
- Everlast Siding usually has a lower initial price, which is appealing if you’re working with a tighter budget. Additionally, since it requires so little maintenance, you’ll save on repairs and upkeep down the road. It’s a “buy it once and forget it” kind of investment.
- James Hardie Siding tends to have a higher upfront cost for the material and installation. Since it needs regular repainting and occasional maintenance, those costs can add up over time. Making James Hardie siding significantly more expensive than Everlast siding.
Which is Better For You?
Everlast will save you the most money in the end, while James Hardie will be more expensive and add extra work for you over the years.
Warranty and Long-Term Support
Another thing to consider is the warranty and support you’ll get with your siding.
- Everlast Siding comes with a solid warranty that covers things like defects, excessive color fading, and general wear over time. Homeowners appreciate the peace of mind knowing they’re protected for the long haul.
- James Hardie Siding also offers a good warranty, but it’s important to read the fine print. Some warranties may vary depending on the installer and location, and they often require that you stick to a maintenance schedule (like repainting) to stay covered.
Who Has The Better Warranty?
In the end, both offer solid warranties, but Everlast is more straightforward in its coverage, especially for those who don’t want to worry about ongoing maintenance.
Choosing Between Everlast and James Hardie Siding
Ultimately, it comes down to what’s most important to you when deciding between Everlast and James Hardie siding brands. If you want something that’s durable, easy to maintain, and offers the best value, Everlast Advanced Composite siding is the right pick. On the other hand, if you prefer more design flexibility and don’t mind a little extra upkeep, James Hardie Fiber Cement siding could be an option for you. Think about what works best for your home and your lifestyle, and you’ll find the right fit.
Trust Unified Home Remodeling—Top Home Siding Installer in NY
Choosing the right siding is a big decision, but finding the right installer makes all the difference. As a professional and experienced siding contractor on Long Island, Unified Home Remodeling ensures your siding is installed with expert care, so you can enjoy long-lasting results. Reach out today, and let us help you find the best siding solution for your home