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6 Questions To Ask When Replacing Home Siding

Siding is an essential part of a home’s exterior because it acts as one of the primary defenses against natural elements. With proper care and maintenance, it should stay effective over its expected lifespan. However, you may consider replacing your siding when it starts showing signs of deterioration caused by general wear and tear or because of old age. When it comes to replacement, the questions you need to ask will relate to the contractor or siding company, siding product and quality, and warranty or payment. Below are six questions to ask when replacing home siding.

  1. Should I Repair Or Replace My Siding?

It is sometimes difficult to tell whether you should repair or replace your siding unless you know what to look for.

Wall covering of the frame house with panels of vinyl siding
Most damages are always hidden and they can only be seen when you remove the siding. A common example of hidden damage is rotting wood, and it usually happens when moisture is trapped between the home’s wooden frame and the siding. An experienced contractor can help you make the right choice on whether to repair or replace by looking for signs of deterioration, rodents, insects, or wood rot and mold.

  1. What Siding Material is Best for My Home?

A professional siding contractor can help you find the best siding material for your home based on your budget and preferences. You want to choose a material that is not only strong and durable but also appealing and easy to maintain. Wood can be relatively affordable to install but may require a lot of maintenance and ongoing repairs. Other siding materials like fiber cement can be costly to buy but offer little maintenance costs. Regardless of the material you choose, it is important to take good care of your siding to extend its lifespan.

  1. Does the Siding Come With a Warranty?

A siding replacement is a large investment and it can last for years when it is properly taken care of. However, you still need protection should anything happen during or after the installation. The best siding manufacturers offer a product warranty that covers many aspects to do with the siding. Knowing that your siding is covered is never enough, as you need to understand the fine details about the coverage. The best way to understand it is to look at what the warranty “doesn’t” include.

  1. Is the Time Right For Me To Install My Siding?

The time of year you choose to replace your siding could affect its overall cost. Most siding materials react to temperature changes and may not adhere well to the surface when installed in extreme hot or cold weather. Spring and fall are considered the ideal seasons to replace your home’s siding because they offer moderate temperatures. It is also crucial to consider other upcoming projects for your homes such as replacing your gutters, roof, or shutters. You need your contractor’s advice on what home improvement projects should come first or last.

  1. How Long Will it Take to Replace My Siding?

The length of time it takes to replace your home’s siding may vary depending on several factors. An experienced siding contractor can provide a somewhat accurate estimate of how long it will take depending on the materials you have chosen, as well as the size and architecture of the house. Although every house is different, a typical siding tear-off and installation may take between 1 to 2 weeks. Other factors that may extend the time include whether the siding needs to be painted and any other unexpected repairs that may pop up along the way.

  1. Should I Hire a Professional or Do it Myself?

After doing thorough research on how to install a siding material, it might seem like an easy task to do it yourself. Even if you are a DIY enthusiast who likes to explore new challenges, it is best to work with a professional to ensure everything is done right the first time. Skilled siding contractors not only reduce the time it takes to complete the project but also use their years of experience to deliver a perfect job. They also share some advice on which siding materials to choose and the best way to install them.

These are only a few of the many questions you may want to ask when replacing your home’s siding. Since this is a major undertaking that involves a huge investment, it is always important to seek professional advice on what works best for your home. Don’t hesitate to ask as many questions as you want before hiring a siding contractor as it gives you peace of mind when they start working on the project.