If you’re considering HardiePlank cladding for your home, one of the first questions you’ll ask is: Is HardiePlank expensive?
With its reputation for durability, weather resistance, and low maintenance, HardiePlank is a premium choice, but does its price justify the investment?
In this guide, we’ll break down the cost of HardiePlank, compare it to alternative cladding materials, like metal cladding, and explore whether the long-term benefits outweigh the initial expense.
How Much Does HardiePlank Really Cost?
The cost of HardiePlank depends on several factors, including material pricing, installation costs, and project size.
✔ Material Costs:
- HardiePlank typically costs £12 - £25 per board, depending on the supplier, finish, and colour.
- The cost per square metre ranges from £50 - £80, making it a mid-to-high range cladding option.
✔ Installation Costs:
- Labour charges vary, but you can expect to pay £50 - £100 per square metre for professional installation.
- Complexity plays a role—multi-storey homes, difficult access, or intricate designs may increase installation costs.
✔ Additional Materials:
- Accessories like fixings, trims, and battens can add £5 - £15 per square metre to the total price.
Total Estimated Cost
For a typical 3-bedroom house, covering 100 square metres, the total cost of HardiePlank cladding can range from £10,000 to £18,000, including labour.
Is HardiePlank More Expensive Than Other Cladding?
To understand whether HardiePlank is expensive, it’s always useful to compare it with other popular cladding materials:
| Cladding Type | Material Cost per m² | Installation Cost per m² | Total Cost (100m² House) | Lifespan | Maintenance Needs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HardiePlank (Fibre Cement) | £50 - £80 | £50 - £100 | £10,000 - £18,000 | 30 - 50 years | Low |
| Timber Cladding | £40 - £100 | £60 - £120 | £10,000 - £22,000 | 20 - 40 years | High |
| uPVC Cladding | £30 - £50 | £40 - £70 | £7,000 - £12,000 | 20 - 30 years | Low |
| Metal Cladding (Aluminium/Steel) | £60 - £120 | £80 - £150 | £14,000 - £27,000 | 40 - 60 years | Low |
| Facing Bricks Cladding | £80 - £150 | £100 - £200 | £18,000 - £35,000 | 50 - 100 years | Very Low |
How Does HardiePlank Compare?
✔ More affordable than brick or metal cladding, but slightly more expensive than uPVC.
✔ Comparable to timber in terms of pricing, but with far less maintenance required.
✔ Longer lifespan and lower maintenance than uPVC, making it a better long-term investment.
Why Is HardiePlank More Expensive Than Some Cladding Options?
1. High-Quality Fibre Cement Material
HardiePlank is made from fibre cement, a mix of cement, sand, and cellulose fibres, making it highly durable and weather-resistant.
Unlike cheaper alternatives, it won’t warp, rot, or crack over time.
2. Fire, Moisture & Pest Resistance
✔ Fireproof – HardiePlank is A2 fire-rated, meaning it won’t ignite or contribute to the spread of flames.
✔ Water-resistant – Unlike timber, it won’t absorb moisture or rot.
✔ Pest-proof – Completely resistant to termites, woodworm, and other pests.
3. Long-Term Cost Savings
While HardiePlank has a higher upfront cost, it requires minimal maintenance compared to timber, which needs regular staining or painting.
Over a 30-year period, HardiePlank can save thousands in maintenance costs.
Is HardiePlank Worth the Investment?
✔ If you want durability and low maintenance – HardiePlank outlasts timber and uPVC, making it a cost-effective long-term solution.
✔ If you’re looking for a fire-resistant cladding – HardiePlank is one of the safest options available.
✔ If aesthetics matter – Available in a wide range of colours and textures, it can mimic the look of wood without the drawbacks.
However, if budget is your primary concern, uPVC or untreated timber may be cheaper upfront, though they require more upkeep and may not last as long.
Final Verdict: Is HardiePlank Expensive?
HardiePlank is not the cheapest cladding option, but it’s one of the best in terms of value. While its upfront costs are higher than uPVC, it outperforms wood in durability, fire resistance, and maintenance, making it a smart investment for long-term savings.
If you’re looking for a cladding material that balances affordability with premium performance, HardiePlank is a strong contender that will enhance your home’s protection and aesthetics for decades. 🚀
