Hardie Reveal Panel offers superior benefits when compared to stucco

MISSION VIEJO, Calif. (January 19, 2009) - James Hardie Building Products Inc. (NYSE: JHX), the world's leading manufacturer of fiber cement building materials, introduces the Hardie® Reveal System™, which includes Hardie® Reveal Panel™ and Reveal Trims™. Designed to meet the growing trend toward panelized design with open “expressed" joints in multi-family and light commercial projects, Hardie Reveal Panel offers clean lines, design flexibility and a high-end look.

“While the trend toward modern, panelized design has been growing in recent years, until now it has been considered both expensive and challenging to install. Hardie Reveal products offer a costeffective, trouble-free way to get the look," said P.J. Rosch, Senior Product Manager for James Hardie Building Products. “James Hardie is the first to offer a U.S. manufactured panel created specifically for this use." Significantly more durable than stucco, Hardie Reveal Panel does not crack and does not require wait time for curing, which can shave weeks on the construction timeline. It is also significantly lighter than stucco at 3.1 lbs. per square foot, and installation involves less mess and less potential for damage to windows. Installation is also made easier with fastening options, siding nails and exposed fastener options.

At 7/16", Reveal Panel is thicker for impact resistance and better wall aesthetics. Its deep reveals create accentuated shadows.

Manufactured using a next generation fiber cement formulation, Hardie Reveal Panel products can be applied directly to the HardieWrap™ or other weather-resistant barrier and sheathing, or can be furred out with Artisan™ Furring Strips to create a rainscreen behind the panel support. The Reveal Panel solution utilizes aluminum trims designed by James Hardie (manufactured by Fry Reglet), and supported by installation instructions, CAD details, and world-class on-site training. Reveal Trims are available in paintable and clear coated aluminum finishes.

Like all James Hardie fiber cement building products, Hardie Reveal Panel is resistant to damage from insects, moisture and harsh weather, and is also non-combustible. The product offers proven paint adhesion and resistance to cracking. Hardie Reveal Panel is protected by an exclusive 30-year limited, transferable warranty.

About James Hardie:
James Hardie Building Products (NYSE: JHX) is committed to helping builders by providing innovative solutions that ultimately increase home value. As the world's leading manufacturer of fiber-cement building materials, James Hardie has been manufacturing cement-based building products for more than 100 years. It introduced fiber-cement products to the U.S. in the early 90s as a durable, low-maintenance alternative to wood and vinyl. Due to their resistance to wind, fire, impact and flood, James Hardie products also have been specified for homes in hurricane- and wildfire-prone areas throughout the U.S. Currently installed on over four million homes, James Hardie products have earned a favorable reputation within the industry and have been specified in some of the country's most prestigious projects.

Media Contact:
Christy Ingle
Vertical Marketing Network
949-751-9200
Christy.Ingle@verticalmarketing.net