News / Press Releases
January 19, 2009
James Hardie’s New Artisan® Matrix™ Panel Delivers High-End Look for Commercial Buildings at a Significant Cost SavingMatrix Panel generates cost savings of 33-70% compared to high-end, imported fiber cement, phenolic resin or aluminum panels MISSION VIEJO, Calif. (January 19, 2009) - James Hardie Building Products (NYSE: JHX), the world’s leading manufacturer of fiber-cement building materials, announces the launch of Artisan® Exterior Design product, Artisan® Matrix™ Panel. Delivering an upscale, contemporary look, the product offers architects and developers of light commercial buildings a compelling alternative to high end imported fiber cement, phenolic resin and aluminum panels, with a typical installed cost savings of between 33-70 percent. Artisan® Matrix™ Panel is sanded on the face surface to create a consistently smooth, flat surface and is marked by clean lines and crisp, clean cut edges that create consistent architectural reveals without the need for aluminum framing pieces. Among the most compelling aspects of the Matrix product is the ability to use finish nails to fasten Matrix Panel when installed over James Hardie’s unique fiber cement furring strips. Through James Hardie’s proprietary system, the Matrix panels are installed with adhesive caulk over the furring strips, enabling the use of finish nails. "The ability to use finish nails with the Matrix product is significant for architects who don’t want visible siding attachments to distract from the clean look of the finished product," said Erik Booth, Business Development Director at James Hardie. "With this system, a very high-end look can be achieved, approximating that of expensive, imported fiber cement or phenolic resin panels." The product is currently imported from James Hardie’s Australian operations, but is stocked locally in the U.S. The product has been launched in Washington state, Oregon and California. While easier to install than many specialized concealed-fix panel systems, the product does require specialized local installation support, and is being rolled out gradually. Interested parties can check the company’s website for the latest on which markets have been opened for Matrix sales. Like all James Hardie products, Artisan Matrix Panel is made with the patented DuraTech™ Technology, which ensures both superior structural integrity and beautiful precision. The product also features a rainscreen application, which allows for drainage and ventilation of moisture, and is resistant to damage from insects, moisture and harsh weather. The product is non-combustible. Like all James Hardie products, Artisan Matrix Panel is made with the patented DuraTech™ Technology, which ensures both superior structural integrity and beautiful precision. The product also features a rainscreen application, which allows for drainage and ventilation of moisture, and is resistant to damage from insects, moisture and harsh weather. The product is non-combustible. Artisan Matrix Panel comes pre-primed and ready to paint. Its basic composition is a combination of Portland cement, ground sand, cellulose fiber, select additives and water, and it contains no asbestos, glass fibers or formaldehyde. Panels are 7' 11-1/2" in length, 3' 11-1/2" width, and feature a thickness of 5/16", with a weight of 2.75 lbs. per square foot. Artisan Matrix Panel is protected by an exclusive 30-year limited, transferable warranty. For additional information, warranties and warnings please visit www.jameshardiecommercial.com. About James Hardie: Media Contact: |