We have been very pleased with the Hardiboard. No maintenance at all so far and we have had it for about 10 years (? I think). One irritating thing was that a squirrel gnawed on the edge of a couple boards, but not a big deal as it is not really noticeable. We did need to redo our trim at that point. Wish we had gone ahead anyway because I doubt DH will ever bother with it now. Sigh. Oh, and I am beginning to think we may not have the taupe-ours isn't actually as dark as your first picture now that I look at it. I can't remember where I stuck my home improvements binder or I would check. I will look for it. GW isn't letting me share my photos from my iPad these days or I would post one for you. Very irritating. I will see if there are any photos on the Macbook.

ascorsonelli: Love your house! Did you find that imperfections in paint were more easily visible with the smooth Hardie? I am building a house that is traditional in style, but I like the smooth finish. Trying to decide which to use, and my husband thinks the one advantage to wood-grain is that paint drips will be more easily disguised. Do you still love your smooth finish? Thanks!

That's quite a nice design, Brea! The choice between smooth and textured Hardie is probably an aesthetic decision, nothing more. I installed smooth Hardie a couple of years ago (smallish two story house), here in rainy western WA. It took paint very well and has held up terrifically. Mildew and mold are common here too, typically on bare wood. I have not seen any on the Hardie. I can't answer your question about cleaning it, as I have not had to do so. I'm guessing the cleaning might be more a matter of the paint you choose, rather than the Hardie. Good wishes on your project! One thing perhaps worth noting: Hardie really must be installed to manufacturer specifications ... and boy oh boy does Hardie have specs!

I would go with the first two ones, no driftwood.