Definition: HardiPlank and HardiPanel are brand names for fiber cement siding manufactured by James Hardie Building Products. The siding is made from portland cement mixed with ground sand, cellulose fiber, and other additives.
Fiber cement siding can resemble stucco, wood clapboards, or cedar shingles, depending on how the panels are textured. Fiber cement is more durable than wood or stucco, and is also fire resistant.
Although more expensive than vinyl, fiber cement siding is considerably less expensive than wood. Fiber cement has become popular because it requires little maintenance and can have a natural, wood-like appearance.
