Do you need new a siding replacement? Siding is the protective covering on your home. It may be made of wood, aluminum, vinyl, or fiber cement that helps protect your home from the elements like rain, wind, and sun damage. If the siding on your home’s exterior seems to be worn and outdated, it may be time to consider replacing your siding.
This article will help you understand what each option entails so that you can make an informed choice about what’s best to improve the look of your home. Read more to learn how to tell if you need a replacement for your home.
Siding Replacement
Replacing your siding is an excellent way to refresh your home’s exterior. It is an effective option, especially if the process is performed correctly. It allows for a fresh new look on the outside of your home while providing it with added insulation and protection from weather damage.
Advantages
Replacing your siding is the best option if you have severely damaged siding or too much siding in need of replacement. However, keep in mind that replacing siding frequently is the most expensive option, but it is also the most efficient.
Replacing the siding will give you a chance to ensure that all of the damaged areas are thoroughly inspected, allowing you to replace the home’s exterior down to its very foundation.
Disadvantages
The most significant disadvantage is the cost. If you are on a tight budget, replacement might not be an option for you. Additionally, this type of exterior renovation project tends to take longer than most other projects because it requires so much work, materials, advanced planning, and expertise.
Signs you need to replace siding:
- The flashing around your chimney is damaged.
- There are gaps between the siding and the wall of your home.
- You have noticed that small animals are nesting in the siding of your home.
- The siding on your home is damaged beyond simple repair.
- You live in an area where heavy storms occur frequently, and you need to make sure your home is more secure against wind damage.
Benefits of Siding Replacement
The following are the benefits of choosing a replacement instead of doing a siding repair project:
- It Improves home appearance.
- It Enhances home security.
- It Improves the rest of the house’s exterior.
- Protect your home from damage caused by insects, mold build-up, rot, rust, etc.
- A way to make sure your home’s exterior is safe from storm damage.
- Increase the amount of insulation in your home.
- Home will be more energy-efficient after replacement.
- It Increases Home Resale Value.
How Much Does Siding Replacement Cost?
The cost of replacement varies depending on many factors. Such as the size and scale of your exterior renovation project, the kind of siding you pick, and whether or not you have a siding contractor to do the task.
Some people choose to do it themselves for a lower cost but keep in mind that replacement is one of the most labor-intensive projects you can take on. If you go this route, it will require a lot of time and effort. And you might end up spending more if there are any additional complications that arise as a consequence of a lack of skills and expertise.
Siding Replacement Options
Wood Siding
It is a kind of siding replacement that uses wood products. It is the most popular type of siding because it instantly adds beauty, value, and curb appeal to any home exterior.
Fiber Cement Siding
This is also referred to as industrial sidings, manufactured sidings, or engineered sidings. It is made of a blend of cement and other materials bonded together with water.
Vinyl Siding
This type of siding replacement comes in a wide range of colors and styles for you to choose from. It is durable, low maintenance, and made of vinyl resins that are extruded into thin, flexible planks of siding.
Stucco Siding
This is usually used to cover exterior walls. It is made of sand, water, Portland cement, gravel, or marble chips. It provides a sturdy and durable covering that is matte in appearance.
Aluminum Siding
This type of siding replacement is known for its low maintenance and durability. Its lightweight, easy-to-install panels are usually pre-coated with aluminum or vinyl and are made of galvanized steel.
Stone Siding
This is composed of real stone like granite, limestone, or quartz. It can last for many years but may be susceptible to damage from weather conditions.
Siding Care Tips
After you have invested in the replacement, it is essential to remember that there are specific siding care tips you should follow to ensure your home remains protected.
- Make sure your window, door frames, and exterior doors are well sealed.
- Fix any cracks or holes in the walls of your home.
- Make sure your gutters are cleared of debris.
- Add an extra layer of protection against solid winds with proper bracing, particularly on the lower level.
- Regularly clean and check for any problems in your siding materials such as cracks, gaps between planks, damaged fasteners, etc.
- If you have any problems with your gutters, contact professional gutter cleaners for assistance.
- Get rid of moss and algae that could grow on your siding materials. Remember that leaves falling onto your roof can cause heavier debris to accumulate near gutters, damaging them even further.
Conclusion
There is no one size fits all answer because every home and homeowner’s situation is different. If you feel like you need a siding replacement, you should consider what type of material would best fit into your home’s exterior design.
Prior to making a decision, it is also best to consider consulting a professional who can help you determine what course of action will produce the best results. With some careful planning and multiple estimates from a variety of pros, you’ll be able to make a choice that works for your home and your budget.