At PCBC in San Francisco last month, James Hardie Building Products, Inc. launched its latest concept in home exterior protection — the HardieZone System, which is designed to deliver superior performance under varying climate conditions.
James Hardie’s product lines have been engineered for two specific climates in North American, categorized as HZ5 and HZ10. The former includes wide seasonal temperature variation and extreme cold, and the latter consists of warmer climates with high rainfall and humidity, as well as extreme heat.
“We are a market leader in residential siding, because we continue to modify, enhance and evolve our fiber cement technology,” said John Dybsky, product manager for James Hardie.
“The HardieZone product line benefits from our most aggressive and focused research and development to date,” he said, “resulting in specialized siding products designed specifically for the variety of climate challenges where the products are being used.”
The HardieZone System represents the seventh generation of innovation in James Hardie siding products. Starting with the development of a fiber cement substrate that offers superior exterior protection over wood and stucco, additional improvements have been made to enhance product performance and its design and color.
The HardieZone System has been fine-tuned to withstand the stress of eight climate variables: temperature fluctuation, ultraviolet exposure, humidity, rainfall, snow, hail, hurricanes and topographical factors. Each has an impact on the wear and tear on a home’s exterior. Based on each climate’s frequency and severity ratio across North America, common variables were analyzed and grouped to form the HZ5 and HZ10 zones. Siding products were developed for each zone.
The composition of HZ5 products protects against freezing temperatures, snow, ice and moisture, and maintains their dimensional stability under severe weather conditions. Among the HZ5 product innovations, a beveled top and drip edge has been added to the HardiePlank lap siding, providing improved water management.
Designed for the heat and unstable climates of North America’s West and South — particularly their coastal regions — HZ10 products are resistant to moisture damage, cracking, splitting, rotting, swelling, high winds, termites and flame. Their specially formulated primer delivers excellent performance in the HZ10 zone.
James Hardie ColorPlus technology adds more protection to the HardieZone System. Specifically formulated paint is baked on in the factory, applying finish that lasts up to twice as long as conventional paint application.
ColorPlus technology increases the product’s finish performance and resists damage in freezing temperatures and under heavy moisture conditions. It also adds up to 30% more fade resistance when installed in zones with significant ultraviolet exposure.
Headquartered in Mission Viejo, Calif., James Hardie Building Products, Inc. is a member of the National Council of the Housing Industry — The Leading Suppliers of NAHB.
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