The 3 essentials for an exterior you’ll love

Julie explains that choosing cladding that complements your home’s style is all about balancing design with functionality. “If you're looking to make a design statement, consider cladding that gives you flexibility with layout,” she says. “With products like James Hardie’s Oblique™ Weatherboard, you can mix widths or install vertically or horizontally. These choices can add layers and texture to your exterior, giving it depth and personality.”

For homeowners who love a classic look, a traditional weatherboard profile can bring timeless appeal and character to an exterior. “James Hardie’s Linea™ Weatherboard delivers the charm of traditional weatherboard with the durability of modern materials, making it an excellent choice for heritage or character homes,” says Julie.

Additionally, colour choice plays a key role in defining your home’s exterior. “Darker, richer shades are popular for a contemporary look, but not all materials are suited to these colours,” says Julie. 

“The extra heat generated by dark paint has less detrimental impact on fibre cement than it can on some other material alternatives. 

That’s why it’s important to choose cladding that’s specifically engineered to resist these issues, helping your chosen colours stay bold and fresh for years.”

And that brings us to the next consideration …

New Zealand’s climate can be tough on a home’s exterior, from coastal sea spray to heavy rainfall and intense UV exposure. “Investing in cladding that’s built to withstand these conditions is essential for long-lasting protection and peace of mind,” says Julie. 

James Hardie’s fibre cement cladding is engineered to handle it all, offering resistance to fire, rot resistance and resistance to moisture damage, so your home is protected in all kinds of weather.

When it comes to maintenance, fibre cement cladding also keeps things simple. 

"With minimal maintenance such as periodic washdowns using low-pressure water and mild soap and repainting in accordance with the paint manufacturer guidelines, you can keep your home looking great for many years to come,” Julie explains. 

Making sustainable choices for your home is about opting for materials that are not only built to last but are kinder to the environment, too. “Look for options with eco-friendly certifications and low VOC emissions,” says Julie. “This means they’re safer for both indoor and outdoor use and better for indoor air quality. Plus, choosing durable materials that won’t need frequent replacement is a smart way to reduce waste over time”.

James Hardie has earned Global GreenTag certification – one of the world's most robust, trusted, and widely recognised eco-labels. This certification means that both the production process and the materials themselves meet strict environmental standards.

Building a home that’s both stylish and resilient starts with cladding that delivers on all fronts. With options like James Hardie’s range, you get the durability, sustainability, and design flexibility to create an exterior that’s both beautiful and built to last. 

For more inspiration, check out the James Hardie Design Handbook for styling ideas and the latest trends, or explore the Modern Design Forecast for even more fresh ideas.