Hardie ColorPlus vs. Painted: Colors and Warranty

You can buy Hardie siding with factory-baked color or primed for paint. The board is the same; the finish and its warranty are not.

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Updated November 14, 2026 · AdEx – Home Solutions, Dallas–Fort Worth

Short answer

ColorPlus is James Hardie’s factory-applied finish, backed by a 15-year limited warranty that covers paint and labor against peeling, cracking and chipping. Primed boards are painted on site, in any color you like, and the paint’s warranty comes from the paint maker. Either way, the siding itself carries a transferable 30-year non-prorated substrate warranty, not a lifetime warranty.

Side by side

ColorPlus (factory finish)Primed, painted on site
ColorsThe Hardie palette; selection varies by region and collectionAny exterior paint color
Finish warranty15-year limited, covering paint and laborFrom the paint manufacturer
Board warranty30-year non-prorated substrate limited warranty (transferable)
On siteTouch-up at cuts and nails; caulk matched to colorFull paint job after installation
LaterCan be repainted when you want a changeRepaint on the paint’s schedule

Read the fine print

James Hardie’s catalogs list a 15-year limited warranty for Hardie trim products and describe the ColorPlus finish warranty as prorated in some versions. Check the current warranty for the exact products on your quote, and keep your invoice and installation date.

Common questions

What is the warranty on Hardie siding?

A transferable 30-year non-prorated substrate limited warranty on siding, trim and soffit, per James Hardie, plus a 15-year limited warranty on ColorPlus finishes.

Is ColorPlus worth it?

It costs more than primed boards but comes with a 15-year finish warranty covering paint and labor. Painted primed boards give unlimited color choice.

Can ColorPlus siding be painted later?

Yes, fiber cement can be repainted when you want a new color.

This guide is general information for Texas homeowners, not legal or insurance advice. Your policy, your city and your house decide the details.