James Hardie Industries plc (ASX: JHX) today announced robust financial results for its first quarter ended 30 June 2026, surpassing original guidance and leading to an upward revision of its full-year outlook. The company, a leading provider of exterior home and outdoor living solutions, with a portfolio that includes fibre cement, fibre gypsum, and composite and PVC decking and railing products, reported net sales of US$1.475 billion, a substantial 64% increase year-over-year. Adjusted EBITDA soared by 79% to US$422 million, while net income rose by 67% to US$104 million, translating to adjusted diluted earnings per share of US$0.36, up 13%.
Chief Executive Officer Aaron Erter highlighted that the strong performance was primarily driven by double-digit sell-through in the Siding & Trim segment, alongside the success of strategic growth initiatives and sustained product demand. The Deck, Rail & Accessories segment also demonstrated near double-digit sell-through, coupled with ongoing channel inventory normalisation. Furthermore, both the Australia & New Zealand and Europe segments experienced double-digit revenue growth, contributing positively to the overall results. Mr Erter noted that these outcomes were a reflection of disciplined execution and above-market growth, rather than a significant improvement in the underlying U.S. housing market.
Reflecting on these strong first-quarter figures, James Hardie has raised its full-year FY27 outlook. The company is now targeting pro forma sales growth of 5.9% to 9.0% and pro forma Adjusted EBITDA growth of 7.4% to 13.7% for the full fiscal year. Organic growth is anticipated to continue in the Siding & Trim segment for the remainder of the year. The company also reaffirmed its FY27 free cash flow target of at least US$500 million, representing a significant increase of over US$200 million year-over-year, underscoring its commitment to deleveraging and investing in organic growth.
