Every home has a story, and it starts with the exterior. The materials that wrap a house define its architectural presence and project curb appeal, which is why siding selection is a key consideration in designing or remodeling a home.
Today’s fiber cement innovations are redefining exterior performance, engineered to withstand climate extremes while authentically replicating natural wood. Reintroduced earlier this year, Hardie® Artisan® siding and trim offer substantial scale and depth profiles.
“Hardie Artisan siding profiles are double the thickness of traditional Hardie® Plank lap siding, so they have these really nice, deep shadow lines,” says Mike Massimino, product manager for James Hardie.
The different styles offered in the Hardie Artisan series include V-groove, Shiplap, Square Channel, and Lap. The profiles expand the design toolbox available to architects. The boards, available in 7.25- and 8.25-inch widths, bridge designs from traditional to modern and everything in between, giving architects more flexibility to deliver custom looks. Mitered corners produce smooth, uninterrupted transitions that highlight the sophistication of the design while eliminating the need for extra trim.
Performance Enhancements
Beyond the expected durability of fiber cement, the Hardie™ Zone System goes further—engineered specifically to withstand everything from freezing northern winters to the heat and humidity of the South. The Hardie Zone System HZ5® boards are made to resist wet, freezing conditions, while HZ10® boards help protect homes from heat, humidity, and sun.
“We’ve situated the entire country into these two zones to make sure that when folks get our products, they perform at the level that’s expected within their climate,” Massimino says.
Hardie® fiber cement siding and trim are also noncombustible*, resist damage from pests, and backed by a 30-year warranty.
Design Flexibility
Architects are pushing fiber cement beyond conventional horizontal applications, using it as a tool for bold exterior expression. Vertical installations of V-Groove and Square Channel profiles, for example, can instantly transform a traditional façade into a modern statement. “From a design perspective, our Square Channel profile gives the illusion of a reverse board and batten look when it’s installed vertically,” Massimino says.
Other applications feature a combination of siding styles as accents for gables, dormers, and porch and patio ceilings and soffits. The result creates visual depth and textural interest that boosts curb appeal.
“We are growing our architect and designer base, knowing that Hardie Artisan premium products can flip the script and be used for more than just traditional home designs,” Massimino says.
Learn more about Hardie Artisan siding and trim at jameshardie.com.
© 2025 James Hardie Building Products Inc. All rights reserved. Unless otherwise noted ™ or ® denote trademarks or registered trademarks of James Hardie Technology Ltd.
*Hardie® fiber cement products are noncombustible and/or have a Class A fire rating when tested in accordance with ASTM E84. Fiber cement fire resistance does not extend to applied paints or coatings, which may be damaged or char when exposed to flames. The use of noncombustible siding, combined with other fire mitigation measures, may help harden a home against external fire.
