Siding Replacement

Siding Replacement

Replacing outdated, unappealing siding can make your home a lot more attractive, giving it a look that's enduring and has loads of curb appeal. It can also make your home more energy efficient. Siding replacement has consistently been one of the best home improvement projects for adding value to your home and is one of the few projects that can show a direct return on your investment. An exterior home project can be difficult to complete on your own, depending on the scope of your project. From removing old siding, dealing with permits, and purchasing the right materials, know what you're getting yourself into before you begin your siding project.

Why Hire a Professional?

This will take much longer than a weekend. Professionals working full time can take up to a couple weeks to side a home depending on the size and the weather conditions, and that's working without a learning curve. If an expert takes weeks to finish the project, doing it yourself will most likely exceed that amount.

Not for beginners: If you have had little to no experience putting siding on homes, leave it up to the trained siding contractors. Siding installation may look relatively easy, but this is not for beginners. Working around corners, eaves, soffits, and fascia, along with trimming openings like windows and doors, are all technical aspects of the project that can be easy to get wrong. If you choose to replace the siding yourself, you need knowledge about whether to repair or remove old siding. You need to know how to repair or replace the exterior of your house where mold, water, or vermin have damaged it. Do you know how to attach frieze board and sheathing for putting up the siding? You also must know which method lends itself to the type of siding you selected. You must have the skill and tools to cut the siding planks to fit and then attach them. When it comes to siding, it will benefit both you and your home to hire a professional.

Pros of doing it yourself: quick and easy to repair, replace, or repaint smaller sections; lower costs; on your own time schedule; don't have to rely on anyone but yourself; satisfaction from completing the project on your own.

Cons of doing it yourself: may lack the knowledge and experience required; have to acquire all tools for cutting, fitting, and installing; purchase materials on your own; you may find further damage once you begin replacing siding; mistakes can be easily made and are harder to fix.

If You Decide to Hire a Contractor

There are many details that go into a siding project, from using the proper tools per material, sanding and fitting techniques, along with finishing touches to make sure all siding is properly placed. Hiring a contractor can ensure that all of these details are taken care of, but before you hire a professional, make some informed decisions first. Decide on the siding you want and research the best method of installation and which type of contractors will be able to perform this work. Before you hire, consider the advantages and disadvantages of bringing on a professional for your siding project.

Pros: a professional will be licensed, bonded, and insured; legal protection through a signed contract; expert knowledge on all siding aspects; full service from preparation to cleanup; a set schedule and budget according to your terms and the contractor's availability; warranty and guarantee conditions; a professional will obtain necessary permits and abide by building codes; all equipment, tools, and materials provided.

Cons: you will have more time to relax; you will end up with a professional installation; you will have more spare time to spend with your family.

When you hire a professional, you're investing your money, but also your intention, your energy, and your good sense into improving your living space. Regardless of whether you are replacing a few cedar shingles, removing rotten hardboard siding, or installing entirely new fiber cement siding, you will want it done right. The exterior of your home can boost curb appeal, but it also acts as a protectant from outside factors like harsh weather conditions. If your siding project is above your skill level, leave it to a professional to provide you with high quality siding that you're satisfied with.