Park Ridge’s Elite James Hardie® Siding Experts
Boutique Service. Award-Winning Precision.
Don’t settle for a high-volume "sales machine." Experience a design-first approach where the person who designs your home is the same expert who manages the installation. As a James Hardie Alliance Elite Contractor and winner of the 2024 Service Excellence Award, we bring master-level craftsmanship to Park Ridge and the surrounding suburbs—one home at a time.
Award-Winning Elite Installers in the Chicagoland Suburbs
James Hardie Siding Contractors
Experience the lasting beauty and durability of James Hardie siding with Northwind Exteriors, Chicago’s James Hardie Alliance Elite Contractor. We specialize in fiber cement siding installations that stand up to extreme weather while transforming the look of your home. Whether you’re upgrading a classic bungalow in Park Ridge, a mid-century home in Glenview, or a new build in Elmhurst, Hardie siding is the premium choice for a stunning, low-maintenance exterior. As a James Hardie Alliance Elite contractor, we have demonstrated exceptional skill and customer satisfaction in working with James Hardie products – even earning the 2024 James Hardie Service Excellence Award for our commitment to quality. When you choose Northwind for Hardie board installation, you’re getting top-tier workmanship that meets James Hardie’s rigorous standards (or even exceeds them). Every wall will be properly wrapped with moisture barriers, expertly flashed, and finished with precision so your siding not only looks amazing but also protects your home for decades.
Why James Hardie? Hardie fiber cement siding is engineered for climate, meaning it’s built to resist the challenges of our Illinois environment – freezing winters, humid summers, high winds – you name it. It won’t rot, warp, or get eaten by insects like wood siding can. And thanks to the baked-on ColorPlus® finish, your chosen color will stay vibrant without frequent painting. It’s no surprise James Hardie is the siding of choice for millions of American homes and has been named “#1 Return on Investment” in remodeling magazine reports year after year.
If you’ve been searching for a trusted James Hardie contractor in the Chicago suburbs, you’ve found us! Northwind Exteriors has transformed homes in communities from Lake Forest, Wilmette and Highland Park to Elmhurst and La Grange
with the entire James Hardie product line. Let us show you how Hardie siding can upgrade your home’s curb appeal and value while eliminating maintenance headaches.
Transform Your Home with James Hardie Siding & The Award Winning Northwind Exteriors!
Northwind Makes replacing your siding easy!
Our Process for James Hardie Siding Installations
Installing James Hardie siding is both an art and a science. Our process ensures that your new siding not only looks fantastic but also performs optimally for decades:
Personalized Consultation: We kick things off by discussing your goals and inspecting your current exterior. We want to understand your style preferences (modern, traditional, etc.), color ideas, and any problem areas on your current siding. We’ll share our knowledge and make suggestions from our experience. This is a collaborative phase – our aim is to educate and inspire, not sell.
3D Design & Selection: Choosing siding is exciting, and we make it even more so with our 3D design tools. After measuring your home, we create a digital model and apply different siding styles and colors. You’ll be able to see your home change in real time – try a Midnight Black vs. a Rich Espresso, or see what shakes in the gables would look like. This takes the guesswork out of the equation. Once you’re thrilled with a design, we finalize the siding and trim selections together.
Expert Installation: When materials arrive, our certified James Hardie Alliance Elite install crew gets to work. Installation of fiber cement siding is meticulous – and we do it by the book (the Hardie Best Practices manual, to be exact). We start by removing old siding (if present) and inspecting the sheathing. We replace any rotten wood and wrap the house in a premium weather barrier. Flashing is installed at all transition points (windows, doors, rooflines) to prevent water intrusion. Then each Hardie plank or panel is cut with specialized tools and nailed per spec, with proper clearances and joint flashing as required. Corners and trim are installed to line up perfectly. It’s craftsmanship combined with technical skill. Our goal: a gorgeous finish and a waterproof building envelope.
Final Inspection & Walkthrough: Upon completion, we perform a thorough quality inspection. We check every seam, every nail, and all caulking to ensure everything is sealed and secure. Then, we invite you for the grand tour! We’ll walk around your home together to admire the transformation and also to point out key features (like where siding joints are, how the attic vents integrate, etc.) so you fully understand the work done. We provide you with James Hardie’s warranty documentation (typically a 30-year product warranty and 15-year finish warranty on ColorPlus). Of course, we stand behind our labor with a robust warranty as well. Finally, we’ll thank you for trusting us and leave you to enjoy your home’s stunning new look!
Our team doesn’t consider a job done until you are 100% satisfied. We often hear from customers how smooth and enjoyable we made the process – words not often associated with construction projects! That’s the Northwind way.
Why Choose James Hardie® Siding for Your Home?
The Gold Standard in Exterior Protection & Design
1. Unmatched Durability: Engineered for the Chicago Climate
In the Midwest, your siding is your home’s first line of defense against lake-effect snow, freezing rain, and summer humidity. James Hardie fiber cement is Engineered for Climate® specifically through the HZ5® Technology line. Unlike vinyl, which becomes brittle and cracks in sub-zero temperatures, or wood, which swells and rots, Hardie siding maintains its dimensional stability year-round.
Pest & Impact Resistant: It is impervious to termites and woodpeckers and resists hail or flying debris that punctures other materials.
A Lifetime Product: Many 20-year-old Hardie installations in our area still look brand new—providing a track record of reliability you can see in your own neighborhood.
2. Non-Combustible Safety: The Highest Fire Rating
Safety is a top priority for Park Ridge families. James Hardie siding is non-combustible and carries a Class A Fire Rating, the highest available. It will not ignite when exposed to a direct flame or contribute fuel to a fire—a massive advantage over wood (which burns) and vinyl (which melts).
Insurance Benefits: Because of its fire-resistant properties, many homeowners qualify for lower insurance premiums after installation.
3. Low Maintenance with ColorPlus® Technology
Stop the endless cycle of scraping and repainting. With James Hardie’s proprietary ColorPlus® Technology, the finish is factory-applied and baked-on for maximum UV resistance and adhesion.
15-Year Finish Warranty: The colors stay vibrant and true, resisting the fading and chipping common with field-applied paint.
Simple Upkeep: Unlike wood, it won't warp or need seasonal sealing. A simple rinse with a garden hose is typically all it takes to maintain that "just-installed" look.
4. Stunning Design & Architectural Versatility
Whether you own a historic Oak Park bungalow or a modern North Shore estate, James Hardie offers the most versatile design catalog in the industry.
Full Texture Palette: Choose from traditional HardiePlank® lap siding, rustic HardieShingle® shakes, or the modern "farmhouse" look of HardiePanel® vertical board-and-batten.
Expert Color Matching: From the popular Evening Blue and Arctic White trim combo to the 700+ hues in the Dream Collection™, we help you create a customized exterior that reflects your personal style.
5. The Highest ROI in Home Improvement
Remodeling experts consistently rank James Hardie siding replacement as one of the top home improvements for Return on Investment (ROI). Upgrading to fiber cement doesn't just protect your home; it significantly increases its resale value and marketability.
Buyer Confidence: Seeing the "James Hardie" name tells potential buyers that the home is high-quality and well-protected.
Immediate Curb Appeal: Transforming a 40-year-old exterior into a modern masterpiece is the fastest way to build instant equity in your property.
The James Hardie® Color Collections
Expertly Curated. Professionally Engineered. Locally Perfect.
The Statement Collection™
The Local Favorites: Timeless Beauty, Ready to Install. This collection features the most popular James Hardie colors in the Park Ridge area, specifically curated for Midwest architectural styles. These classic shades are locally stocked and engineered with ColorPlus® Technology for long-lasting vibrancy.
Locally Stocked: Faster lead times for your siding project.
Proven Palettes: Designed to complement the specific aesthetic of Chicago’s suburbs.
Engineered Longevity: Factory-applied finish that resists fading, chipping, and cracking.
Maximum Warranty: Full ColorPlus® Technology warranty protection.
The Dream Collection™
Unlimited Expression: 700+ Colors to Match Your Vision. For homeowners seeking a truly unique exterior, the Dream Collection offers over 700 ColorPlus® finishes. This collection allows you to customize your home’s "personality" without sacrificing the durability and low maintenance of fiber cement.
Designer Versatility: Access to an expansive spectrum of shades and tones.
Custom Aesthetics: Perfect for matching historic colors or modern design trends.
Consistent Quality: Every custom color is applied in a controlled factory environment.
Made-to-Order: Tailored specifically for your home’s unique design plan.
The TimberHue™ Collection
The New Standard: The Warmth of Wood, The Strength of Fiber Cement. The TimberHue™ Collection is the latest innovation from James Hardie, offering a revolutionary two-tone, natural wood aesthetic.
Authentic Two-Tone Finish: Mimics the variegated grain and depth of natural wood.
Nature-Inspired Palette: Eight curated colors including Ebony Forest, Walnut, and Chestnut.
Superior Durability: Resists the harsh Illinois freeze-thaw cycles that destroy real wood.
Zero-Maintenance Wood Look: Eliminates the need for the constant restaining and sealing of natural cedar.
New for 2026:
The James Hardie TimberHue™ Collection
The Warmth of Natural Wood. The Resilience of Fiber Cement.
The wait is over. Northwind Exteriors is proud to introduce the James Hardie TimberHue™ Collection—the latest innovation from James Hardie that revolutionizes wood-look siding. Engineered specifically for climates like Chicago’s, TimberHue™ combines the rugged durability of fiber cement with a proprietary two-tone finish that authentically replicates the grain, depth, and character of natural timber.
Engineered for Chicago Weather: Resists moisture, freezing temps, and pests. Unlike real wood, it won’t rot, warp, or invite woodpeckers.
Authentic Wood Aesthetics: Available in 8 nature-inspired tones—from the airy White Birch to the deep Ebony Forest—featuring varied grain patterns for a non-repeating, custom look.
Elite Installation: As a James Hardie Alliance Elite Contractor, we have early access to 2026 pricing and the specialized training required to install this premium product correctly.
Pricing has just been released for the 2026 season. Be among the first homes in the Northwind service area to showcase this architectural breakthrough.
The Northwind Gallery:
James Hardie Siding Gallery by Northwind Exteriors
See the Northwind Exteriors Difference in Action! Explore our Project Transformations to see how we’ve enhanced homes across Park Ridge, Rosemont, Glenview, Lake Forest, Des Plaines, Elmhurst, Northbrook, Hinsdale, Clarendon Hills and many other North Shore and Northwest suburbs with expert roofing and siding installations, including James Hardie Siding and Malarkey Roofing Products.
Let us inspire your next home improvement project in Chicagoland!
★★★★★
Google-Rated & Google Guaranteed Contractor You Can Trust
Northwind Exteriors is proud to be a Google 5-Star Rated and Google Guaranteed local roofing and James Hardie siding contractor. This means we've been vetted by Google, are fully licensed and insured, and consistently deliver exceptional customer satisfaction.
When you hire us, you’re getting a contractor trusted by both your neighbors and Google itself.
Here’s what some of our local customers have to say:
Ready for a Beautiful, Protected Home? Let's Talk Hardie!
If you’re considering residing your home, now is the perfect time to explore James Hardie siding with Northwind Exteriors. We offer free siding consultations and estimates, so you can get all the details specific to your home without any obligation. We’ll bring samples, share ideas, and answer all your questions (e.g., about costs, timelines, financing, etc.).
From Evanston and Highland Park down to Elmhurst and Hinsdale, we’re ready to serve you. Give your home the gift of lasting beauty and protection this year. Contact Northwind Exteriors at (773) 998-4000 or send us a message to schedule your James Hardie siding consultation. Discover why so many Chicagoland homeowners trust us to clad their homes in the industry’s best siding. We can’t wait to make your dream exterior come true!
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Frequently Ask Questions
What are the benefits of choosing James Hardie siding for my home?
James Hardie siding offers exceptional durability, resistance to harsh weather conditions, and a variety of styles and colors. It also provides fire resistance and comes with a 30-year warranty.
What types of James Hardie siding are available?
At Northwind Exteriors, we are proud to offer a comprehensive range of James Hardie siding collections, each designed to provide exceptional durability, aesthetic appeal, and performance tailored to your home's needs.
Statement Collection™:
The Statement Collection™ features James Hardie's most popular and regionally curated ColorPlus® Technology colors. These pre-finished siding and trim products are readily available, ensuring a quicker turnaround for your project. The baked-on color finish offers long-lasting vibrancy and resistance to fading, peeling, and cracking, providing a low-maintenance solution for homeowners seeking both beauty and durability.
James Hardie Dream Collection™:
For those seeking a more personalized touch, the Dream Collection™ offers over 700 ColorPlus® Technology finishes, allowing for extensive customization to match your unique style. This collection provides the same high-performance benefits as the Statement Collection™, with the added advantage of a broader color palette to bring your vision to life.
Artisan® Collection:
The Artisan® Collection is designed for homeowners desiring a distinctive and sophisticated exterior. This collection features extra-thick boards (5/8-inch) that create deep shadow lines, emulating the rich look of traditional wood siding. Available in profiles such as Lap, V-Groove, Shiplap, and Square Channel, the Artisan® Collection offers the flexibility to achieve various architectural styles, from classic to contemporary. The boards are primed for paint, allowing you to select the perfect color to complement your home's design.
How does James Hardie siding compare to vinyl siding?
James Hardie siding is made from fiber cement, which is more durable and resistant to damage from weather, fire, and pests compared to vinyl siding. It also offers a more authentic wood-like appearance.
Can James Hardie siding be customized to match my home’s design?
Yes, James Hardie siding comes in a wide variety of colors and styles, allowing for extensive customization to match your home’s design and architectural style. We offer custom painted siding and trim to give your home the exact look you desire!
Do you offer James Hardie Siding in my Area?
Northwind Exteriors proudly provides elite James Hardie siding installation for homeowners throughout Chicagoland, with a focus on the North Shore, Northwest suburbs, and Western suburbs of the Greater Chicago area. As a certified James Hardie Alliance Elite Contractor, we combine high-performance siding materials, professional installation, and cutting-edge 3D design tools to deliver outstanding exterior transformations that last.
We are locally owned and operated in Park Ridge, IL, and proudly serve the following towns and neighborhoods:
North Shore Suburbs: Glenview, Northbrook, Wilmette, Lake Forest, Highland Park, Deerfield, Winnetka, Evanston, Glencoe, Kenilworth, Northfield
Northwest Suburbs: Park Ridge, Rosemont, Des Plaines, Mount Prospect, Arlington Heights, Schaumburg, Palatine, Elk Grove Village, Rolling Meadows, Prospect Heights, Wheeling, Niles, Buffalo Grove, Lincolnwood, Skokie, Morton Grove, Hoffman Estates, Lake Zurich, Deer Park, Long Grove, Barrington, South Barrington
Western Suburbs: Elmhurst, Oak Brook, Hinsdale, Clarendon Hills, La Grange, Western Springs, Downers Grove, Westchester, Villa Park, Lombard, Berwyn Other Areas We Serve Itasca, Medinah, Riverwoods, Vernon Hills, Libertyville, and surrounding communities across the Chicago area.
Licensed Roofing Contractor # 104.019920
State of Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation Expires on 12/31/2027
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508 W Higgins Rd
Park Ridge, IL 60068
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