When it comes to protecting your home from the unpredictable British weather, the exterior finish you choose is your first line of defence. In Somerset, where we experience everything from heavy Atlantic rains to the baking summer sun, homeowners and builders alike are looking for materials that offer more than just a pretty face. Enter James Hardie® Plank.
As a leading timber merchant in Somerset, Brookridge has seen a massive surge in demand for this innovative fibre cement product. While we are experts in natural wood, we recognise that many modern projects require the “fit and forget” convenience that Hardie® Plank provides. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into why this material is revolutionising home exteriors across the South West.
What Exactly is Hardie® Plank?
Hardie® Plank is a facade cladding material made from advanced fibre cement—a mixture of cellulose fibre, Portland cement, sand, and water. This unique composition creates a board that mimics the elegant grain of natural wood (specifically cedar) but possesses the strength of stone.
At Brookridge, we supply two main textures: Cedar (for a classic, rustic look) and Smooth (for contemporary, sleek designs). Unlike traditional timber which can expand, contract, or rot when exposed to moisture, Hardie® Plank is dimensionally stable. This means it won’t warp or crack, ensuring your home looks freshly renovated for decades.
The Benefits for the Somerset Homeowner
1. Unbeatable Durability and Weather Resistance
British climate can be mixed. Traditional timber cladding requires regular staining or painting to prevent rot and UV damage. Hardie® Plank is engineered to withstand the most extreme weather conditions. It is resistant to moisture, meaning it won’t rot, and it is completely immune to pest infestations like woodworm—a common concern for rural properties in our area.
2. Superior Fire Safety
Safety is a priority for any property owner. Hardie® Plank is A2 fire-rated, meaning it is non-combustible. It won’t ignite when exposed to direct flame and won’t contribute to the spread of a fire. For many insurance providers and building inspectors, this is a significant advantage over uPVC or untreated timber.
3. Low Maintenance & ColourPlus™ Technology
One of the biggest selling points for our DIY customers is the maintenance—or lack thereof. Thanks to James Hardie’s ColourPlus™ Technology, the boards are finished with a multi-coat, baked-on pigment that is incredibly resistant to UV fading. You won’t need to spend your weekends up a ladder with a paintbrush. A simple wash with a garden hose and soapy water once a year is usually all that’s required to keep it looking brand new.
Colours that define architecture
Hardie® Plank comes in 21 colours, giving architects and builders maximum design flexibility. The fade resistant ColourPlus™ finish ensures consistent results on every project. Our colour palette allows facades to harmonise with other building materials, landscapes and contemporary architectural styles. In practise, this means less compromise during planning and more creative freedom when designing bold concepts.
Installation Advice for Trade and DIY
While Hardie® Plank is designed for longevity, its performance depends on correct installation. Here are a few tips from the brookridge expert team:
- Ventilation is Key: Always install your cladding as a “ventilated rainscreen.” This requires a minimum 20mm cavity behind the boards to allow air to circulate and moisture to escape.
- Use the Right Tools: Never use a high-speed grinder to cut fibre cement, as it creates excessive dust. Use a specialised Hardie® Guillotine or a low-speed saw with a diamond-tipped blade.
- The Starter Strip: Ensure your first row is perfectly level and tilted using a starter strip to create the characteristic “lap” look.
Why Builders and Architects Choose Hardie® Plank
Hardie® Plank has become one of the most popular cladding choices for builders, architects, and homeowners looking to achieve a clean, modern exterior finish without compromising on durability. Combining the natural appearance of timber with the strength of fibre cement, it delivers outstanding performance for both residential and commercial projects.
One of the key benefits of Hardie® Plank is its sleek and contemporary design. The sharp, geometric lines create a modern architectural look that works perfectly on homes, garden rooms, extensions and commercial facades. Installation is also faster and more efficient compared to many traditional cladding materials. Thanks to its lightweight yet robust construction, Hardie® Plank boards are easier to cut, handle, and install on site — helping reduce labour time by up to 20%.
Hardie® Plank is also widely recognised for its authentic timber appearance. In independent studies and focus groups involving more than 1,000 participants, it was voted one of the most natural-looking timber alternatives by both architects and homeowners. Designed specifically for European climates, Hardie® Plank offers superior durability against harsh weather conditions including frost, heat, and humidity. Its medium-density fibre cement construction ensures long-lasting performance with minimal maintenance required.
At Brookridge, we supply quality Hardie® Plank cladding alongside expert advice to help you choose the right solution for your next project.
Transform Your Home with Durable & Stylish Hardie® Plank Cladding
If you want a home exterior that combines the timeless charm of wood with the modern performance of fibre cement, Hardie® Plank is the gold standard. Whether you are a landscaper working on a garden room or a homeowner renovating a cottage, the team at brookridge is here to help with technical advice and competitive pricing. Explore our colour range or visit our local branch to see the quality for yourself.
