Fiber Cement Siding Named One of the Top Return on Investments
Remodeling magazine releases results of its 2010-2011 'Cost vs. Value' Report
MISSION VIEJO, Calif., Nov. 9, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- James Hardie Building Products Inc. (NYSE: JHX), the leading manufacturer of fiber cement siding, agrees with the annual report's findings that fiber cement siding is a smart homeowner investment. For over 20 years, the trusted industry publication Remodeling magazine has published its "Cost vs. Value" report, which compares the cost of a remodeling project to the increased value of the house at the time of resale. The report includes 33 common remodeling projects ranging from exterior fixtures to interior upgrades. Since its inclusion in 2005, fiber cement siding has reigned as the leader in value.* Fiber cement siding provides a significant 80% return on the investment. In contrast, costly room additions only produce a 52.7% return. Kitchen remodel projects, a common number one choice, only recouped 59% in this year's report. Foam-backed vinyl siding and vinyl siding replacement only delivers a 72.4% return.
In a declining real estate market, a remodeled exterior can help sellers make a good first impression and, in the case of a James Hardie exterior, can provide the benefits of low maintenance and protection against weather and termites. According to James Hardie's "June Trend Report," outdoor spaces are increasingly important as many homeowners look for ways to expand their home's footprint. Outdoor areas, such as patios and porches, now provide additional space for entertaining and relaxation. New siding is an affordable way to enhance the outdoor experience. James Hardie fiber cement siding provides homeowners with versatile style choices for a unique look with low maintenance.
James Hardie fiber cement siding has excelled among other exterior choices because of its durability. James Hardie Building Products Inc. produces quality building materials that are guaranteed to withstand the test of time and save homeowners from making costly repairs. "We are pleased with the confirmation that fiber cement siding provides a strong return on investment. As James Hardie siding enters its seventh generation of product innovations, we anticipate that fiber cement siding will continue to top the charts. Our portfolio of options continues to expand with durable design solutions," shares Paul Gentzel, Repair and Remodel Business Manager for James Hardie. The current generation of products includes never-before-seen innovations such as a formula that is engineered for specific climates and ColorPlus® Technology, which is a multi-coat, baked-on factory finish. James Hardie fiber cement siding is five times thicker than vinyl and can endure intense weather such as 150 miles per hour hurricane winds and massive flooding. James Hardie fiber cement siding is classified as non-combustible exterior, extending the protection to fire as well.
About James Hardie
James Hardie has been manufacturing building products for more than 100 years. It introduced fiber cement siding products to the U.S. in the early 90s as a durable, low-maintenance alternative to wood and vinyl. James Hardie products are Engineered for Climate™, delivering specific performance attributes relative to the climate where the product is being used. Other products include HardieWrap™ weather barrier and HardieBacker® backer board. Currently installed on more than 4 million homes, James Hardie products have earned a favorable reputation within the industry and have been specified in some of the country's most prestigious projects. More information about James Hardie is available at http://www.jameshardie.com.
* James Hardie provides the #1 return on investment for projects greater than $1,300.
SOURCE James Hardie Building Products Inc.
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