- Jon Hickox
- February 3, 2020
The HardieZone® System: How It Works
North America has a diverse range of climates, and no single siding product would be able to cater to all of them. Fiber cement siding manufacturer James Hardie® came up with a solution: the HardieZone® System. In this blog, Elite Preferred James Hardie home remodeling company Colonial Remodeling, LLC shares a look at how the HardieZone System works.
What Is the HardieZone System?
The HardieZone System was developed by James Hardie as a way to fulfill the need for siding products that work in different climates. James Hardie knew from the start that a one-size-fits-all approach wouldn’t work. Siding products that perform well in warm climates in the south won’t perform properly in colder, northern climates, and vice versa.
James Hardie began development on the HardieZone System by identifying eight climatic factors that contribute to siding performance, which are then used to identify 10 climatic zones within North America. After further research, these zones were narrowed down to two distinctly different zones: HZ5™ and HZ10™. When a siding installation contractor places an order for siding materials, James Hardie fulfills the order according to the customer’s HardieZone designation. Certified James Hardie installers are trained to install these products according to specifications.
HZ5 Zone
Virginia and surrounding areas are within the HZ5 zone, meaning there are more cold days than warm ones. Siding designed for the HZ5 zone is optimized to complement exterior wall insulation to help prevent heat loss. The factory-applied coating and fiber cement ratio are also optimized for resisting cold outdoor temperatures. A special coating on the outer siding surface improves protection against warping and cracking.
HZ10 Zone
Areas within the HZ10 zone are typically warm and humid, which means the siding needs to be able to withstand high winds, scorching heat and torrential downpours. HZ10 siding has exterior coatings that protect the siding from blistering, cracking and other effects of such climatic conditions. Homes located in coastal areas also benefit from the product’s resistance to sea air and wind damage.
Learn more about what James Hardie siding can do for your home. Call Colonial Remodeling, LLC at (703) 534-0800 or fill out our contact form. We serve customers in Arlington, VA, and nearby areas.
