AI visualization tool lifts Hardie fiber cement to new design plateau

Sources: James Hardie Building Products Inc., Chicago; CP staff

James Hardie Building Products, the top North American player in fiber cement and other noncombustible siding, has teamed with Hover, San Francisco-based 3D property technology developer, on an artificial intelligence-powered tool affording instant visualization of prospective exterior renovations. Owners or contractors visiting www.jameshardie.com can upload a single photo of home, then see a variety of siding and trim combinations and styles generated through the Hardie Designer platform. From there, they can edit preliminary exterior proposals by applying alternative Hardie profiles and colors. Working designs can be shared with family, friends and contractors to help in final decisions.

Hardie Designer functionality is readily experienced here. James Hardie is the first siding producer to adopt the Hover flagship design program.

“We are setting a new standard for how homeowners engage with our industry-leading products in a way that has never been possible before,” says James Hardie North America President Sean Gadd. “Hardie Designer allows [them] to easily experiment with the look of Hardie products, including textures and trending colors, helping them visualize their dream home with just a few clicks.”

“Homeowners today expect to see what they’re buying before they commit, and the companies that offer real-time design will win,” adds Hover Founder and CEO A.J. Altman. “Our technology is built on more than a decade of real home property data. Now, industry leaders like James Hardie can leverage what we’ve built, delivering immediate value to prospective customers. Exterior renovations are an investment, and this collaboration is another step toward giving homeowners the clarity and confidence they need.”