Hardie Plank Siding Cost – Material and Installation Guide
Hardie Plank siding—a top-tier fiber cement product by James Hardie—is a trusted choice among Connecticut homeowners seeking long-lasting, low-maintenance exterior siding that mimics the look of real wood. Built to withstand New England’s harsh winters and humid summers, it’s a smart investment for both curb appeal and property value.
How Much Does Hardie Plank Siding Cost in Connecticut?
If you’re budgeting for new siding in the Nutmeg State, knowing the Hardie Plank siding cost in Connecticut helps you plan effectively. Below is a pricing snapshot based on regional averages:
| Cost Component | Price Range (CT Avg.) | Details |
| Material Only (Pre-Primed) | $1.75 – $3.75/sq ft | Base fiber cement boards, ready for on-site painting |
| Material (ColorPlus® Technology) | $2.25 – $5.25/sq ft | Factory-painted boards with superior color retention |
| Installation (Labor) | $4.50 – $8.50/sq ft | Influenced by home size, height, region, and contractor rates |
| Total Installed Cost (All-In Avg.) | $7.00 – $14.00/sq ft | Complete installation, standard trim, fasteners, underlayment |
| Full Project Estimate (2,000 sq ft) | $14,000 – $28,000 | Varies based on complexity, finish, and town permitting fees |
Read on for a full breakdown of materials, labor, and real-world project examples specific to Connecticut homes.
Hardie Siding Cost Breakdown
Understanding the full scope of Hardie siding costs requires examining three main components: materials, installation, and additional project expenses. Let’s start with the base of every project—what you’ll pay for the siding itself.
Material Costs
When planning a Hardie siding project, the first major cost factor is materials. In Connecticut, where weather resistance is key, choosing the right grade and finish of Hardie Plank siding is essential.
Here’s a breakdown of average material costs per square foot for both standard and premium options:
| Product Type | Average CT Price (per sq ft) | Description |
| Standard (Pre-Primed) | $1.75 – $3.75 | Delivered unpainted and requires on-site painting. Budget-friendly but needs more labor. |
| Premium (ColorPlus® Technology) | $2.25 – $5.25 | Factory-finished with baked-on paint that resists fading, peeling, and cracking. |
NB: ColorPlus vs. Pre-Primed: While ColorPlus® siding costs more upfront, many Connecticut homeowners find the durability and reduced maintenance well worth the investment—especially given the region’s temperature swings and moisture levels.
Keep in mind that trim boards, soffits, and accessories (available in matching finishes) will add to your overall materials budget. These components typically cost between $1.00–$2.50 per linear foot, depending on the style and finish.
Installation Costs
While material prices are fairly consistent, installation costs can vary widely in Connecticut depending on several key factors. Labor is often the largest portion of your siding budget, so it’s important to understand what influences pricing and what’s typically included in professional quotes.
Labor Pricing Factors in Connecticut
The cost to install Hardie Plank siding in Connecticut typically ranges from $4.50 to $8.50 per square foot. Here’s what drives that variation:
- Home Size: Larger homes require more labor and time, increasing the total cost.
- Number of Stories: Two- or three-story homes need scaffolding or lift equipment, which adds to labor complexity.
- Home Complexity: Architectural features like gables, dormers, or irregular walls raise the difficulty and cost.
- Local Labor Rates: Labor costs vary by county and contractor demand—rates tend to be higher in coastal and metro areas like Fairfield County.
What’s Included in a Typical Installation Quote?
A reputable contractor in Connecticut will usually include the following in their quote:
- Removal of old siding (if applicable)
- Preparation and moisture barrier installation
- Mounting of Hardie siding boards (including trim)
- Caulking around windows, doors, and seams
- Fasteners and minor repair work as needed
- Clean-up and debris disposal
Tip: Be sure to confirm these inclusions in writing and clarify whether permit fees or scaffolding charges are extra. Always compare multiple quotes and check contractor references.
Additional Expenses
Beyond materials and labor, there are several additional costs that Connecticut homeowners should factor into their Hardie Plank siding project budget. These expenses can significantly impact the total price, especially on older homes or more complex installations.
Common Extra Costs in Connecticut
| Expense Type | Typical Range | Details |
| Old Siding Removal | $0.50 – $1.00/sq ft | Necessary if replacing wood, vinyl, or asbestos siding; includes disposal. |
| Permits | $200 – $600+ | Varies by town; coastal and historic zones may have stricter requirements. |
| Waste Handling | $300 – $800 | Includes dumpster rental and debris haul-away for medium to large homes. |
| Material Delivery | $100 – $300 | Especially relevant for bulk orders or hard-to-access properties. |
Contingency Costs to Plan For
During tear-off, unexpected issues may be uncovered, such as:
- Damaged Sheathing: Replacing rotted wood can add $1.00 – $3.00 per sq ft.
- Framing Repairs: Structural fixes may add several hundred to a few thousand dollars depending on severity.
Recommendation: Budget an additional 10–15% of your total project cost as a contingency fund. This ensures you’re financially prepared for any surprises during installation.
Project Cost Examples
To help you visualize how material and labor costs translate into real-world budgets, here are sample pricing scenarios for typical Connecticut home sizes. These examples cover different finish levels—from budget-conscious to premium upgrades.
Sample Project Scenarios
| Home Size | Finish Level | Estimated Total Cost | Includes |
| 1,000 sq ft | Budget | $7,000 – $9,500 | Pre-primed siding, basic trim, single-story layout |
| Mid-Range | $9,500 – $12,500 | ColorPlus siding, upgraded caulking, moderate trim package | |
| Premium | $12,500 – $15,000+ | Full ColorPlus package, rigid insulation, detailed trim work | |
| 2,000 sq ft | Budget | $14,000 – $18,000 | Standard layout, pre-primed materials |
| Mid-Range | $18,000 – $23,000 | Mix of premium finishes, typical complexity | |
| Premium | $23,000 – $28,000+ | Full ColorPlus, custom trim, insulation, and advanced moisture control | |
| 2,500 sq ft | Budget | $17,500 – $22,000 | Efficient design, minimal custom work |
| Mid-Range | $22,000 – $28,500 | Balanced materials and design elements | |
| Premium | $28,500 – $35,000+ | High-end trim, full insulation, multiple stories, custom architectural features |
What Influences Each Tier?
- Budget: Pre-primed siding, basic installation, minimal trim
- Mid-Range: Mix of standard and premium materials, some customizations
- Premium: Full ColorPlus siding, energy-efficient insulation, and aesthetic upgrades
These cost examples reflect averages in Connecticut and assume professional installation. For an exact estimate, you’ll want to account for your home’s layout, age, location, and contractor selection.
What Drives the Cost of James Hardie Siding
Not all siding materials are created equal—and the higher price tag of James Hardie siding reflects its premium engineering, longevity, and brand trust. Here’s a breakdown of the factors that influence Hardie Plank siding cost, especially in regions like Connecticut where performance matters.
Product Composition & Durability
Hardie Plank is made from a proprietary blend of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers—engineered to resist:
- Moisture intrusion and mold growth
- Cracking, warping, and rot
- Pests like termites and carpenter ants
- Fire (rated as non-combustible)
This makes it ideal for Connecticut’s freeze-thaw cycles, high humidity, and coastal exposure. The upfront cost reflects decades of low maintenance and structural reliability.
Paint Finish Technologies & Design Options
James Hardie’s ColorPlus® Technology finish is a baked-on paint layer applied under factory-controlled conditions. It offers:
- Fade resistance even in direct sunlight
- Better adhesion and uniformity vs. field painting
- Warranty-backed finish (up to 15 years)
In addition, homeowners can choose from dozens of designer colors and textures—including woodgrain and smooth plank styles—plus options for vertical panels, board and batten looks, or shingle-style accents. These upgrades increase cost, but significantly boost curb appeal.
Brand Reputation, Warranty & Resale Value
James Hardie is the #1 siding brand in North America, and that recognition carries weight. Benefits include:
- A 30-year non-prorated product warranty
- Increased resale value due to name recognition
- Higher buyer confidence during home appraisals and sales
In Connecticut’s competitive housing market, investing in James Hardie siding can help distinguish your property—and offer peace of mind that your exterior will last for decades.
FAQs
In Connecticut, Hardie Plank siding costs on a 2,000 sq ft home typically ranges from $14,000 to $28,000, depending on factors like finish type (pre-primed vs. ColorPlus), number of stories, and installation complexity.
Yes, compared to vinyl or lower-grade wood siding, Hardie Plank siding is more expensive upfront. However, its 30-year warranty, resistance to rot, fire, and insects, and long-term durability make it a high-value investment—especially in harsh climates like Connecticut.
While durable, Hardie Board siding has some drawbacks:
– Higher installation cost than vinyl or engineered wood
– Heavier weight, requiring skilled labor and extra support
– Not entirely maintenance-free—caulking and painting touch-ups may still be needed over time
It depends on the wood type. Hardie Plank is generally cheaper than natural cedar or redwood, but more expensive than engineered wood or pine. Its longevity and low upkeep often make it more cost-effective over time.
Early versions of fiber cement siding sometimes had issues with moisture absorption and cracking, especially when improperly installed. Modern James Hardie products have resolved these concerns with improved formulations and installation guidelines.
James Hardie siding is designed to last 30–50 years with proper installation and care. It’s backed by a 30-year non-prorated warranty, which is one of the strongest in the siding industry.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Upgrading your home with James Hardie Plank siding is an investment in both curb appeal and long-term durability—especially here in Connecticut, where weather extremes demand robust exterior materials. Throughout this guide, we’ve covered:
- Material and labor costs for Hardie siding, including local pricing ranges
- Add-on expenses like permits, insulation, and repairs
- Real-world project estimates for homes between 1,000 and 2,500 square feet
- The unique benefits of Hardie’s ColorPlus® finish, durability, and brand value
Whether you’re planning a basic replacement or a high-end transformation, understanding the full Hardie siding cost breakdown helps you make an informed decision.
Ready to Start Your Project?
Now that you having a better understanding of Hardie Plank siding costs, it’s the perfect time to start exploring options for you home. For expert installation, honest pricing, and a stress-free siding experience, contact KP LaMarco—Connecticut’s trusted exterior renovation specialists. Get your custom quote today and see how Hardie Plank siding can transform your home.
