James Hardie manufactures and sells exterior building products, primarily fiber cement siding and trim for residential construction. Fiber cement consists of cellulose fiber, silica, and cement, offering durability and resistance to fire and moisture compared to wood or vinyl. The company sells planks, panels, and trim, including its ColorPlus pre-finished line that reduces on-site painting requirements. Through the acquisition of AZEK, James Hardie also provides composite and PVC decking, railing, and pergolas under brands like TimberTech. The company operates across four segments: Siding & Trim, Deck, Rail & Accessories, Australia & New Zealand, and Europe. James Hardie earns revenue by selling through specialty distributors, lumberyards, and retailers, while using a downstream sales force to build demand with contractors and architects. The business model depends on manufacturing scale to achieve fixed-cost absorption and price increases driven by a shift toward premium product tiers. The company centers its growth strategy on material conversion, aiming to replace traditional wood and vinyl substrates with fiber cement and composite products. This strategy targets both the single-family new construction and the repair and remodel markets. James Hardie focuses on installation innovation and product differentiation to compete with lower-cost materials and expand its footprint in the outdoor living category.