Choosing the right external cladding is one of the most important decisions in any build or renovation project. Homeowners, developers and contractors across Somerset and the South West are increasingly asking whether Hardie® Plank fibre cement cladding is the right choice for durability, aesthetics and long-term value.
With modern builds demanding low maintenance, clean lines and dependable performance in varied UK weather conditions, Hardie® Plank has become a widely specified solution. But is it right for your project?
As timber and cladding specialists based in Somerset, we supply Hardie® Plank alongside premium timber cladding options — supporting trade professionals and homeowners across the region.
What Is Hardie® Plank Cladding?
Hardie® Plank is a fibre cement cladding board designed to provide the appearance of timber with significantly reduced maintenance requirements.
It is manufactured using a mix of cement, sand and cellulose fibres, creating a highly durable board suitable for external use. It is widely used across residential developments, garden rooms, extensions and commercial projects.
Its popularity has grown due to its:
• Weather resistanc
• Colour stability
• Minimal maintenance requirements
• Clean, consistent finish
Is Hardie® Plank Suitable for the UK Climate?
One of the main reasons contractors choose Hardie® Plank in the South West is its ability to perform reliably in variable weather conditions.
Somerset and surrounding areas experience:
• High rainfall
• Coastal exposure in some locations
• Temperature fluctuations
• Damp winter conditions
Unlike traditional timber, fibre cement boards do not rot, warp or swell due to moisture exposure. This makes Hardie® Plank a strong option for projects where long-term external durability is essential.
How Does It Compare to Timber Cladding?
This is one of the most common questions. Timber cladding offers natural warmth and character, while Hardie® Plank offers enhanced durability and lower lifecycle maintenance.
The choice often comes down to:
• Desired aesthetic
• Maintenance expectations
• Budget considerations
• Location and exposure level
For some projects, a natural timber like Siberian Larch or Douglas Fir glulam may be preferred for its architectural appearance. For others, particularly rental properties or developments where maintenance needs to be minimised, fibre cement offers clear advantages.
Is Hardie® Plank Cost Effective?
While the upfront material cost may be higher than some softwood cladding options, Hardie® Plank can prove cost-effective over time due to:
• Reduced repainting requirements
• Minimal repair costs
• Long product lifespan
• Consistent colour retention
For developers and property owners evaluating whole-life cost rather than just initial spend, this is often a key factor.
Installation Considerations
Hardie® Plank can be installed horizontally or vertically, depending on design preference. Proper installation is essential to achieve optimal performance and longevity. Working with experienced installers and sourcing from a reliable regional supplier ensures:
• Consistent product quality
• Clear lead times
• Correct specification
• Ongoing product support
Timber & Cladding Specialists Based in Somerset
As a Somerset-based timber and cladding supplier, we support projects across:
• Somerset
• Devon
• Dorset
• Bristol and the wider South West
Our focus is on dependable stock holding, practical trade support and competitive pricing within the premium cladding market.
We supply both fibre cement and timber cladding options, allowing customers to choose the right solution for their project rather than being limited to a single material type.
Our recently launched website allows customers to:
• Browse the full product range
• Request trade credit accounts
• Order materials online
• Access updated product information
Being regionally based allows us to understand the specific environmental and construction demands of South West builds — and supply accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does Hardie® Plank require painting?
It is supplied with a factory-applied finish designed for long-term colour stability, reducing the need for frequent repainting.
2. Is Hardie® Plank fire resistant?
Fibre cement boards offer strong fire performance compared to traditional timber cladding.
3. Can it be installed vertically?
Yes, Hardie® Plank can be installed both horizontally and vertically depending on the desired finish.
4. Is it suitable for coastal areas?
Its resistance to moisture and weather exposure makes it suitable for many coastal and high-exposure locations.
5. How long does it last?
When installed correctly, fibre cement cladding is designed to provide long-term durability with minimal maintenance.
6. Do you supply Hardie® Plank in Somerset?
Yes, we supply Hardie® Plank and a wide range of cladding solutions across Somerset and the South West.
