Hardie shake siding offers the timeless look of cedar shingles with the durability and low maintenance of fiber cement. As homeowners seek stylish, long-lasting options for exterior finishes, understanding the true cost of Hardie shake siding becomes essential for budgeting and project planning. This comprehensive guide covers average prices, material and labor breakdowns, cost influencers, comparisons, and tips to ensure maximum value for your home upgrade.
| Cost Category | Average Price Range (per sq. ft.) | Typical Total (2,000 sq. ft. Home) |
|---|---|---|
| Material Only | $3.75 – $5.50 | $7,500 – $11,000 |
| Professional Installation | $5.50 – $11.50 | $11,000 – $23,000 |
| Removal & Disposal (Old Siding) | $0.75 – $2.00 | $1,500 – $4,000 |
| Additional Materials (Wrap, Trim) | $1.75 – $3.00 | $3,500 – $6,000 |
What Is Hardie Shake Siding?
Hardie shake siding is a fiber cement product manufactured by James Hardie, designed to mimic the rich texture of wood shakes without the maintenance headaches of true cedar. It’s composed of Portland cement, sand, cellulose fibers, and proprietary additives. Available in straight-edge and staggered-edge designs, it creates classic curb appeal for cottages, Craftsman, and coastal-style homes.
Average Hardie Shake Siding Cost Per Square Foot
The average cost for Hardie shake siding materials ranges from $3.75 to $5.50 per square foot.
- Higher: Premium colors or finishes, complex shapes, or high-cost markets.
- Lower: Basic pre-primed shakes in standard finishes, large-quantity orders.
For most homes, the total installed cost (including labor) falls between $7 to $13 per square foot, depending on multiple installation and regional factors.
Full Home Hardie Shake Siding Cost Breakdown
Below is a breakdown of what homeowners can expect for a typical 2,000-square-foot exterior:
| Cost Element | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Material | $7,500 | $11,000 |
| Labor / Installation | $5,000 | $12,000 |
| Removal Of Old Siding | $1,500 | $4,000 |
| Housewrap & Flashing | $1,000 | $2,000 |
| Caulking, Paint, Touch-Up | $500 | $1,000 |
| Trim (Corners, Soffits, Etc.) | $1,500 | $3,000 |
| Total | $17,000 | $33,000 |
Factors That Influence Hardie Shake Siding Cost
Product Line & Finishes
ColorPlus Technology shakes (factory-finished for fade resistance) cost more than primed-only versions. Custom colors or extra-deep shakes also raise prices.
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Home Size & Layout Complexity
A two-story, high-gable, or architecturally ornate home will require more labor (and often more waste material) than a simple, single-level house.
Regional Labor Rates
Cost varies by ZIP code. Installers in major metropolitan areas charge more due to demand and cost of living.
Preparation Needs
If old siding is damaged, contains asbestos, or if sheathing needs repair, expect additional fees.
Trim & Specialty Pieces
Corner boards, soffits, and window/door trim increase both material and installation costs.
Accessibility Issues
Obstacles like steep terrain, landscaping, or limited equipment access also add to labor time.
Comparing Hardie Shake Siding To Other Siding Options
| Siding Material | Installed Cost/Sq. Ft. | Maintenance | Lifespan | Fire/Rot Resistance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hardie Shake (Fiber Cement) | $7 – $13 | Low | 30-50+ Years | Excellent |
| Natural Cedar Shake | $7 – $15 | High | 15-30 Years | Low/Medium |
| Vinyl Shake | $5 – $9 | Very Low | 20-30 Years | Poor |
| Engineered Wood Shake | $6 – $11 | Low | 20-40 Years | Medium |
Hardie shake siding sits in the mid-to-upper range in terms of price, but brings superior fire resistance, longevity, and lower long-term care costs.
Hardie Shake Siding: Material And Finish Choices
Primed (Paint-On-Site) Vs. ColorPlus (Factory Finish)
- Primed Shakes: Cheaper upfront, needs on-site painting, more susceptible to fade.
- ColorPlus Shakes: Finished in factory, resists UV fading, longer warranty, costs more per square foot.
Edge Styles
- Straight-Edge for a clean, trimmed look.
- Staggered-Edge mimics rustic, hand-cut shakes.
Expect to pay around $0.25–$0.75 more per square foot for ColorPlus or staggered-edge shakes.
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Labor Cost And Installation Insights
Professional installation typically runs $3.75–$6 per square foot, not including removal or add-ons. Fiber cement shake products are heavier and tougher to cut than vinyl or wood, so skilled installers are essential. Labor increases for high walls, multistory buildings, or homes requiring extensive trim.
- Labor intensive demolition/removal: $0.75–$2 per sq. ft. extra
- Sealing, touch-up, caulking: $0.25–$0.75 per sq. ft.
- Complex trim or custom work: Premiums of 20–40%+
Breaking Down Hardie Shake Siding Costs By Perspective
| Perspective | Specific Item | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Siding Panels | $3.75–$5.50 per sq. ft. | Higher for ColorPlus, staggered-edge |
| Material | Trim & Accents | $1.75–$3.00 per linear ft. | Corners, window/door surrounds |
| Contractor | Preparation/Demo | $0.75–$2.00 per sq. ft. | Remove/dispose old siding |
| Contractor | Labor (Install) | $3.75–$6.00 per sq. ft. | Skilled, labor-intensive |
| Homeowner | Painting/Sealing | $1.25–$2.25 per sq. ft. | Primed shakes only |
| Maintenance | Annual Power Wash | $150–$350/year | Optional, extends lifespan |
Hardie Shake Siding Cost In Major US Regions
Regional variations affect cost due to labor, shipping, and local demand. Here are estimated averages per square foot (installed):
- Northeast: $8.25–$12.50
- Midwest: $7.75–$11.00
- South: $7.00–$10.50
- West Coast: $8.75–$13.25
Expect the highest costs in urban coastal markets like San Francisco, New York City, and Seattle, due to contractor scarcity and higher materials pricing.
Hardie Shake Siding DIY Vs. Professional Installation
While possible for very experienced DIYers, most homeowners should hire professionals for Hardie shake siding. Fiber cement is heavy, requires special cutting tools, strict safety, and proper flashing techniques to avoid moisture damage. Improper installation may void warranty and lower home value.
- DIY Material Cost: $6,000–$10,000 for 2,000 sq. ft.
- Tools & Safety Gear: $200–$800+
- DIY Labor Savings: $5,000–$12,000
- Risk: High—Potential for costly errors
Value & Return On Investment With Hardie Shake Siding
Hardie shake siding is a smart investment for curb appeal, durability, and potential resale value increases. According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report, fiber cement siding replacement consistently recoups 65% to 80% of project cost on resale. Low annual maintenance and 30- to 50-year lifespan make it a strong choice for long-term savings versus higher-maintenance wood.
Warranty And Longevity
James Hardie offers a 30-year non-prorated warranty on its shake siding, plus a 15-year finish warranty on ColorPlus products. Proper installation and limited paint touch-ups typically mean decades of performance with minimal worry.
Common Hidden Costs And Fees
- Permit Fees: $200–$600, varies by municipality
- Repairing Damaged Sheathing: $400–$2,000+, if discovered during removal
- Custom Trim Work: $500–$2,000 extra for ornate accents
- Disposal Fees: $150–$600 depending on old siding and local dump costs
- Scaffolding/Lift Rental: $400–$1,200 for multi-story homes
Tips To Lower Hardie Shake Siding Costs
- Get At Least Three Contractor Quotes for accurate local pricing and competition.
- Consider Off-Season Installation in late fall or early spring for possible discounts.
- Eco-Rebates And Insurance: Some regions/insurers offer fiber-cement siding incentives.
- Opt For Standard Colors/Profiles to save on material upcharges.
- Bundle Projects (windows, roofing, siding) to negotiate package pricing.
Is Hardie Shake Siding The Right Choice For Your Home?
Hardie shake siding combines classic beauty with exceptional longevity and fire resistance. While installation cost is higher than vinyl, lower maintenance and superior lifespan offer strong total value. For those seeking a wood-like finish with less hassle, Hardie shake is a leading U.S. choice in 2025.