Thinking about upgrading your home’s exterior but don’t want the same old siding installation everyone else has? You’re not alone. A lot of homeowners today are leaning into curb appeal, durability, and style that actually makes a difference.
That’s why James Hardie staggered shake siding is showing up on more and more homes, especially in areas where homes need to handle tough weather while still looking great.
If you’re looking for a fresh, low-maintenance look that nods to timeless charm and stands up to the elements, you’re in the right place. In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know: what James Hardie Staggered Shake Siding actually is, why it’s worth considering, and how it gets installed, without fluff or jargon.
What Is James Hardie Staggered Shake Siding?
James Hardie Staggered Shake Siding is a fiber cement siding product designed to mimic the rustic, textured look of cedar shakes. Unlike real wood, though, it doesn’t rot, warp, or fall victim to termites.
The staggered edge design means each panel has a slightly irregular bottom edge, adding to that handcrafted, authentic appearance that gives your home personality without screaming look at me!
Whether your home is in a region with hot summers, freezing winters, salty coastal air, or just a bit of everything, this siding is made to perform. James Hardie siding are engineered to stand up to changing climates and still hold their shape and color.
Why Homeowners Love Staggered Shake Siding
Let’s talk benefits—because good looks alone aren’t enough for your biggest investment.
1. Timeless Curb Appeal
You get that classic, shingle-style look that works on everything from Cape Cod to Craftsman-style homes. The staggered edges give a more natural, less uniform appearance than straight-edge shakes.
2. Extreme Durability
James Hardie products are engineered for specific climate zones. That means it holds up in high humidity, harsh sun, wind, rain, snow—whatever Mother Nature has on the schedule.
3. Fire Resistance
Unlike wood siding, fiber cement won’t ignite in a fire. That’s a big deal in areas prone to wildfires or when you just want peace of mind.
4. Pest-Resistant
No need to worry about carpenter ants or termites making a meal out of your exterior.
5. Low Maintenance
Paint sticks better to fiber cement than wood, and you won’t have to repaint as often. It’s also less prone to cracking or peeling.
How to Install James Hardie Staggered Shake Siding
Installing James Hardie siding isn’t your average DIY weekend project. There are key steps that must be followed closely to ensure durability, warranty compliance, and long-term performance. Here’s a general look at the process so you know what’s involved.
Step 1: Prep the Surface
Before anything else, the old siding needs to come off (if applicable), and the wall should be clean and dry. A weather-resistant barrier is installed to prevent moisture intrusion.
Step 2: Layout and Planning
Installers take time to map out the placement of each panel, ensuring the staggered design looks balanced across the surface. This matters more than you think—it affects the whole look.
Step 3: Starter Strip and First Course
A starter strip is placed at the bottom to hold the first row of shakes level. This is crucial for keeping everything square going up.
Step 4: Panel Installation
Panels are installed from the bottom up, with fasteners driven into the studs through the pre-marked nail lines. Each shake panel overlaps the one below it to create a water-shedding surface.
Step 5: Seams, Corners, and Trim
Proper flashing and trim are added to areas around windows, doors, and corners. Joint flashing and caulking are used to seal any exposed gaps.
Step 6: Paint or Finish Touches
James Hardie siding often comes pre-finished with ColorPlus® Technology, but if custom colors are used, painting is the final step.
Best Manufacturers of Staggered Shake Siding
Not all shake-style siding is created equal. Here’s a quick list of top names you can trust when it comes to durability, design, and performance.
- James Hardie
The gold standard in fiber cement siding. Their staggered shakes are durable, climate-engineered, and low maintenance. - Nichiha
A strong contender with fiber cement options that bring excellent texture and color choices to the table. - Allura
Offers fiber cement shake options with deep wood grain textures and solid resistance to weathering and pests.
Our Team Knows Siding Inside and Out
At Carp’s Complete Exteriors, we’ve been working with James Hardie products for years, and staggered shakes are one of our favorites to install. Our crew knows what it takes to get this job done right, from prep to final caulking.
We’ve seen what happens when it’s installed the wrong way, and we make sure that doesn’t happen in your home.
Let’s be real: you want the best, and hiring pros who know exactly what they’re doing is going to save you time, money, and headaches down the road. If you’re ready to take the next step, call us at (402) 651-1493 and let’s bring your exterior vision to life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is staggered shake siding made of?
James Hardie Staggered Shake Siding is made from fiber cement—a mix of sand, cement, and cellulose fibers that creates a strong, long-lasting material.
Does fiber cement siding need a lot of maintenance?
Nope! That’s one of the best things about it. Just rinse it off occasionally and inspect your caulk and paint every few years.
How long does James Hardie siding last?
Properly installed and maintained, it can last 30 years or more. Some warranties even extend to 50 years.
Is this siding good for cold or hot climates?
Absolutely. James Hardie has what they call the HardieZone® system, which tailors products for your specific climate conditions.
Can I paint the siding if I want to change the color later?
Yes, even if it comes with ColorPlus® Technology, you can repaint it in the future if your tastes change.
How much does installation cost?
Costs can vary based on your home’s size, design complexity, and the condition of your existing exterior. We’re happy to give you a detailed estimate—just give us a call at (402) 651-1493.
What styles does this siding work with?
Craftsman, cottage, farmhouse, traditional—you name it. The staggered shake look is versatile and adds instant charm.
How long does installation take?
Most jobs can be completed in a week or less, depending on weather and scope. We’ll give you a timeline before we start.
Call Us to Bring Your Home’s Exterior to the Next Level
James Hardie Staggered Shake Siding offers a perfect mix of beauty, strength, and performance. Whether you’re doing siding repair or building from scratch, this is a product worth investing in.
At Carp’s Complete Exteriors, we specialize in helping homeowners like you turn that “someday” vision into a reality. Our skilled, experienced team will handle the job with care, precision, and professionalism. Want to talk about your siding installation project? Call us at (402) 651-1493—we’d love to hear what you’re dreaming up.