Sizing Up Siding: Recouping Remodeling Costs (NAPSA)—Some home im- provement/repair projects are necessary regardless of cost, such as installing a new hot water heater when the old one stops working. Others, such as updating the kitchen or windows, are more a function of having the money to do so—and how much they add to a home’s value when it comes timetosell. According to the most recent “Cost Vs. Value Report” published by Remodeling magazine, the most cost-effective remodeling job is redoing the bathroom, with an estimated 102.2 percent of costs recouped in the home sale. But the number-two project may surprise you: siding replacement. The report found that, when mid-range siding products are used, homeowners can expect to get 95.5 percent of costs back whentheysell. For upscale siding, the expected payback is even higher: 103.6 percent. And while many indoor projects have fluctuated in their over- all value—between 2002 and 2005, bathroom remodels have recouped as little as 79.1 percent of costs—siding has been a rela- tively steady earner, increasing in value each year over that period. In addition, since the exterior of your homeis thefirst thing peo- ple see, the charm and character that show through with quality siding speaks volumes about the pride you have in your home. The decision to re-side your homeis, more than likely, one you'll make once andlive with for a long time. That’s whyit’s so important to get Fiber-cement siding offers a number of benefits, including resistance to fire, rotting and cracking. all of the facts and makethe right siding choice. One of the most popular siding choices—both for mid-range and upscale projects—is fiber-cement siding from James Hardie. Whether you’re building a new home or remodeling, fiber-cement siding provides low maintenance yet doesn’t sacrifice the beauty and character of wood. The siding resists rotting or cracking and it resists damagefrom rain and hail. In addition, James Hardie siding is available pre-finished with a 15-year finish warranty. Best of all, the siding is noncombustible, with a limited, transferable warranty for up to 50 years. James Hardie is a worldwide leader in the manufacturing and development of technologies, materials and manufacturing processes of durable building materials. For over 20 years, the company has operated one of the largest research and development facilities devoted solely to fibercement technology. To learn more, visit www.jameshardie.com.
