Your Guide to Installing James Hardie Siding: Do It Right in Southeast Michigan
When it comes to protecting and beautifying your home, few choices make as big of an impact as your siding. In Southeast Michigan, where weather can shift from hot summers to icy winters, homeowners need a product that’s as tough as it is attractive. That’s why James Hardie siding has become one of the most trusted names in exterior remodeling — and why we at Level Up Improvement proudly install it across the region, including projects like our recent installation in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
If you’re thinking about upgrading to James Hardie, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know — from why it’s such a smart investment to how to install it properly (and why hiring a professional installer matters). We’ll help you understand how to do it right the first time, so your home stays beautiful and protected for decades.
Why James Hardie Siding Is the Smart Choice for Michigan Homes
Before diving into installation, it’s important to understand why James Hardie siding is such a great fit for Southeast Michigan homes.
1. Built for Harsh Weather
James Hardie siding is made from fiber cement, a durable blend of sand, cement, and cellulose fibers. This makes it incredibly resistant to the types of weather challenges we face in our area — freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall, spring rain, and intense summer humidity. Unlike wood, it won’t rot, warp, or attract pests.
2. Engineered for Climate
James Hardie created something called the HardieZone® System, which customizes products for specific climates. Homes in Michigan fall into HardieZone 5, meaning the material is specially engineered to handle wet, cold, and fluctuating temperatures.
3. Curb Appeal and ColorPlus® Technology
Hardie’s ColorPlus® Technology provides baked-on color that lasts up to two times longer than traditional paint. Whether you prefer modern gray tones or classic farmhouse white, the finish resists fading and peeling — keeping your home looking freshly painted year after year.
4. Low Maintenance and Longevity
Unlike vinyl or wood, James Hardie siding doesn’t need frequent repainting or repairs. When installed correctly, it can last up to 50 years or more, making it one of the best long-term investments for homeowners in Ann Arbor and across Southeast Michigan.
Planning Your James Hardie Installation
A successful siding project starts long before the first panel goes up. Here’s what proper planning looks like.
Step 1: Evaluate Your Home’s Needs
Every home is different. Start by inspecting your current siding. Are there areas with water damage, mold, or pest issues? These problems need to be addressed before new siding is installed to ensure long-term performance.
Step 2: Choose the Right James Hardie Product
James Hardie offers a wide range of products to suit your home’s design and functional needs:
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HardiePlank® Lap Siding: The most popular option, offering a traditional horizontal look.
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HardieShingle® Siding: Mimics the appearance of cedar shingles, perfect for cottage or craftsman-style homes.
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HardiePanel® Vertical Siding: Great for modern or farmhouse-style designs.
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HardieTrim® Boards: Adds clean edges and accent details around windows and doors.
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HardieSoffit® Panels: Provides ventilation and protection under eaves.
When we installed James Hardie siding on our Ann Arbor project, we used HardiePlank Lap Siding with ColorPlus Technology in a crisp, modern shade that beautifully complemented the home’s trim and roofing.
Step 3: Select a Certified Installer
Installing James Hardie siding isn’t like installing vinyl. It requires special tools, techniques, and attention to detail. That’s why it’s essential to work with a James Hardie Preferred Contractor, like Level Up Improvement, to make sure the installation meets all manufacturer specifications — ensuring your full warranty coverage and top-notch results.
How to Install James Hardie Siding: Step-by-Step
Here’s a general look at what goes into a professional James Hardie installation. While DIY homeowners might be tempted to take this on, doing it right means using the correct techniques from start to finish.
Step 1: Prepare the Work Area
We start by removing the old siding and inspecting the sheathing underneath. Any damaged or rotted wood is replaced to create a clean, stable surface. Next, we apply a weather-resistant barrier like HardieWrap® to prevent moisture infiltration.
Step 2: Layout and Planning
Before a single board is installed, we carefully plan the layout to ensure all seams are properly aligned and joints fall where they should. Planning the layout in advance avoids uneven cuts or awkward transitions around windows and doors.
Step 3: Cutting the Boards
Fiber cement is a heavy, dense material — cutting it correctly is crucial. We use specialized shears or diamond-tipped blades that produce clean cuts without releasing excess dust. Precision at this stage makes a big difference in the finished appearance.
Step 4: Fastening the Siding
James Hardie boards are nailed into place with corrosion-resistant nails. Each fastener is placed at the correct depth and location to avoid cracking or movement. Proper spacing allows the boards to expand and contract naturally with Michigan’s temperature changes.
Step 5: Sealing and Flashing
To prevent leaks, flashing is installed around all openings — windows, doors, and corners. Sealant is applied at key joints to create a watertight barrier. Doing this right ensures your home stays protected even during Michigan’s heaviest storms.
Step 6: Installing Trim and Accessories
We finish with HardieTrim boards, soffits, and any design accents you’ve chosen. These small details tie the look together, giving your home a finished, professional appearance.
Step 7: Final Inspection
Finally, we inspect every inch of the installation — checking for alignment, caulking, and proper fastener placement. We also clean the site, leaving your home looking spotless and brand new.
Common Installation Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
Even the best product can fail if it’s not installed correctly. Here are a few common mistakes we see from inexperienced installers or DIY attempts:
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Improper Nailing – Overdriving or underdriving nails can cause cracks or loose boards.
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Skipping Flashing – Missing flashing around windows or doors leads to water intrusion and hidden damage.
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Incorrect Gaps – Boards must be spaced properly to handle thermal movement.
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Poor Surface Prep – Installing over rotted sheathing or without a moisture barrier reduces lifespan.
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Ignoring Manufacturer Guidelines – Deviating from James Hardie’s specifications can void your warranty.
When you work with Level Up Improvement, our team follows every manufacturer instruction to the letter — because doing it right means protecting your investment for the long term.
Caring for Your James Hardie Siding
Once your new siding is installed, maintenance is simple — another reason homeowners across Southeast Michigan love it.
1. Wash Once or Twice a Year
Use a garden hose and soft brush to remove dirt, pollen, and mildew. Avoid pressure washers, which can damage the finish.
2. Inspect Annually
Check caulking, joints, and painted surfaces each year. If you notice cracks or gaps, touch them up promptly.
3. Repaint Occasionally (If Not ColorPlus®)
If your siding doesn’t feature ColorPlus® Technology, plan to repaint every 10–15 years using high-quality exterior paint.
4. Keep Landscaping Trimmed
Trim bushes and trees away from the siding to prevent scratches or moisture buildup.
5. Check Gutters and Downspouts
Make sure your drainage system directs water away from the siding — preventing premature wear.
The Benefits of Hiring a Professional Installer
While James Hardie siding can be installed by experienced DIYers, the truth is: professional installation makes all the difference.
Here’s why homeowners in Ann Arbor and Southeast Michigan trust pros like Level Up Improvement:
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Proper Tools & Training: We use equipment designed specifically for fiber cement products.
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Warranty Protection: James Hardie’s manufacturer warranty (up to 30 years) is only valid when installed correctly.
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Efficient Installation: Our crews can complete most projects faster — without sacrificing quality.
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Expert Finishing: Trim, flashing, and detail work are all done with precision and care.
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Peace of Mind: You’ll know the job is done right, and your home is fully protected from Michigan’s elements.
Why “Do It Right” Matters
At Level Up Improvement, our motto is simple: Do it right.
That’s not just a tagline — it’s the foundation of how we work.
When we completed the James Hardie installation on a home in Ann Arbor, we faced tight deadlines and tricky weather conditions. But through careful planning, expert craftsmanship, and clear communication, we delivered a finished product that exceeded expectations. The homeowner loved the transformation — not only for its beauty, but also for the peace of mind knowing it was built to last.
Doing it right means:
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Using premium materials like James Hardie fiber cement.
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Following manufacturer guidelines exactly.
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Maintaining open communication from start to finish.
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Leaving every property clean and better than we found it.
That’s what sets us apart as one of the top exterior contractors in Southeast Michigan.
Final Thoughts: Ready to Upgrade Your Home with James Hardie Siding?
If you’re considering a siding replacement project in Ann Arbor or anywhere in Southeast Michigan, James Hardie siding is the clear choice for performance, style, and long-term value. When installed by professionals who do it right, it offers unbeatable durability and timeless curb appeal.
Whether you’re restoring an older home or upgrading for better energy efficiency, Level Up Improvement is here to help. From the first consultation to the final nail, we make the process simple, transparent, and stress-free — just like we did for our recent Ann Arbor homeowner.