What Does James Hardie Siding Really Cost in Lawrence, KS?

You are looking at James Hardie Siding for your property here in Lawrence. This is a smart choice. James Hardie Siding is a good product, especially with our Kansas weather. Our weather can bring humid summers and icy winters. Many people want to know about the cost.

The cost is not a simple answer. Anyone who gives you a price without knowing about your house is not being honest. Lawrence Siding Pros has been doing this work for a long time. James Hardie Siding is an investment. It is usually more expensive than vinyl siding. It is built to last, often 30 to 50 years. It holds up well against fire, pests, and moisture.

What Really Drives the Price Tag?

When Lawrence Siding Pros puts together a quote for James Hardie Siding, we look at several things. It is not just about the square footage of the siding material itself. Here is a breakdown of what makes the numbers change:

• Your Home's Size and Shape: This is an important factor. A bigger house means more materials and more labor. A simple, rectangular ranch house in, for example, the Pinckney neighborhood of Lawrence, KS, will be less complex to side than a multi-story home. Homes with many gables, bump-outs, and intricate architectural details take more time. More stories often mean we need more scaffolding, which adds to labor costs.
• The Specific Hardie Product You Choose: James Hardie makes different styles of siding. HardiePlank Lap Siding is generally the most common choice. It is also often the most budget-friendly option. If you want HardieShingle for that cedar shake look, or HardiePanel for a modern vertical aesthetic, or even their thicker Hardie Artisan line, these will typically cost more. This is because of the material itself and the extra labor involved in the installation.
• ColorPlus Technology vs. Primed Siding: You can get Hardie boards that are pre-primed. These are cheaper upfront. You must then factor in the cost of hiring a painter after installation. This can add $1.50 to $5.00 per square foot. You can also choose James Hardie's ColorPlus Technology. This is factory-finished with a baked-on paint. It costs more initially, but it saves you the trouble and cost of painting right away. It also comes with a good warranty on the finish.
• Trim and Accessories: It is not just the main siding planks that are needed. You need trim boards around windows, doors, and corners, and also soffits and fascia. These details add to the material cost and the labor cost. This is especially true if you want a more elaborate trim package.
• Condition of Your Existing Walls: If we remove the old siding and find rotten sheathing or other structural damage, that will need to be repaired. These repairs must be completed before we can put up the new Hardie Siding. This is an extra cost, but it is important for the longevity of your new siding.
• Siding Removal and Disposal: Taking off your old siding and properly disposing of it is part of the job. This adds to the overall expense for homeowners in Lawrence.
• Complexity of Installation: Hardie Siding is heavy. It requires specialized tools and techniques for proper installation. Homes with many windows, doors, or intricate angles will take more time. This requires specialized cuts, which increases labor costs.
• Permits and Inspections: In Lawrence, KS, like most places, you will need permits for a major siding replacement. These permits come with fees.

Typical Cost Ranges for James Hardie Siding in Lawrence

Now, let us talk about some numbers. These are average costs. Your specific project could be on the lower or higher end. This depends on the factors mentioned above. For James Hardie Siding, including both materials and professional installation, you are generally looking at:

• $10 to $18 per square foot.

Some sources show ranges as high as $18-$40 per square foot. This is for high-end installations with full trim packages and ColorPlus finishes. For an average 2,000 square foot home in Lawrence, that could mean a total project cost anywhere from $20,000 to $36,000. Lawrence Siding Pros has seen some projects in the Kansas City area, which is comparable to Lawrence, go for $25,000 to $35,000 for a full Hardie re-side.

For comparison, generic fiber cement siding in Lawrence might be listed around $4.36 per square foot. This is often just the material cost or a very basic installation. It is not a full James Hardie system with all the necessary components.

What Should Be Included in Your Quote?

When you get a quote from Lawrence Siding Pros, or any other contractor, make sure it is detailed. A good quote is not just a single number; it breaks things down. This way you know exactly what you are paying for. Here is what you should expect to see:

• Materials: This should list the specific type of James Hardie Siding. This includes HardiePlank Lap Siding or HardieShingle. It should also specify the finish, whether ColorPlus or primed, and the quantities needed. It should also include all the necessary trim boards, known as HardieTrim, and also soffits, fascia, and any other accessories.
• Labor: This covers the cost of the crew installing the siding. It is a significant portion of the total cost, often 50% to 70% of the project. Installing fiber cement is more labor-intensive than vinyl. This is because it is heavier and requires specialized skills and tools.
• Old Siding Removal and Disposal: This should be clearly itemized in the quote.
• Underlayment/Weather Barrier: This is important for protecting your home from moisture. The quote should specify the type of house wrap or weather-resistive barrier being used.
• Flashing and Sealants: Proper flashing around windows, doors, and other penetrations is necessary for keeping water out of your home.
• Permits: The cost for local building permits in Lawrence, KS.
• Site Cleanup: What the crew will do to leave your property tidy after the job is done.
• Warranty Information: Details on both the material warranty from James Hardie and the contractor's workmanship warranty.

How to Avoid Overpaying for Your James Hardie Siding

Nobody wants to spend more than they have to on a big home improvement project. Here are some tips for getting a fair price without compromising quality:

1. Get Multiple Detailed Quotes: Do not just get one bid. Get at least three quotes for your home in Lawrence. Make sure they are all for the exact same scope of work. Compare them carefully. If one quote is much lower, ask why. They might be cutting corners on materials or leaving out important steps like proper flashing or a quality weather barrier.
2. Ask About Experience with James Hardie: Installing Hardie Siding is not like installing vinyl. It requires specific training and tools. Look for contractors who are James Hardie Preferred or Elite Preferred contractors. This means they have met certain standards and have proven experience with the product.
3. Understand the Full Scope: Make sure your quote includes everything mentioned above. A low upfront price might mean hidden costs later. These could be for things like trim, disposal, or necessary repairs.
4. Consider the Long-Term Value: The upfront cost of James Hardie Siding is higher than some other materials. However, it offers very good durability, low maintenance, and a good return on investment. It often increases your home's value significantly. You are paying for quality that lasts. This can save you money in the long run on repairs and repainting.
5. Do Not Rush into a Decision: Take your time to review quotes, check references, and ask questions. A reputable contractor will not pressure you.
6. Think About Timing: Sometimes, contractors might offer better rates during their slower seasons. This could be late fall or winter, though Kansas winters can be unpredictable for exterior work.

Choosing James Hardie Siding is a solid decision for your Lawrence home. It is tough, looks good, and adds real value. Just make sure you understand what you are paying for. Work with a contractor who knows their stuff. If you have questions, give Lawrence Siding Pros a call. We are always happy to talk through your options for James Hardie Siding in Lawrence, KS.