The Top Five Most Frequently Asked Questions About Exterior Siding

For many of us, the prospect of doing a big home improvement job can be exhausting. Not only does it take a lot of time and preparation, but it also costs money. Siding is a whole new subject to become familiar with and it’s not uncommon to have questions and concerns surrounding all aspects of the process. We’re here to help by answering the top five most frequently asked questions about exterior siding.

Homeowners can prepare for a complete home reside by removing pictures and artwork from the interior walls of the home. Although the siding contractor will be working outside, items can still be knocked off the wall due to the nature of the work. We don’t want anything in your home to become damaged.

Contractors need close access to the side of the home, all around the perimeter. If possible, trim overgrown shrubs to make it easier for the crew to work on the home without damaging any of your shrubs. It is also a good idea to keep any shrubs or trees trimmed all year long to ensure they aren’t damaging your newly installed siding.

According to surveys done by the National Association of Home Builders and the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, most siding products should last as long as you own your home, making it a great investment.

A major determining factor of the lifespan of siding is the material it’s made from.

Aluminum siding – Aluminum siding should last around 25 to 40 years. In some cases, it may stay in good shape for longer.

Brick veneer – Brick is a good choice for a long-lasting exterior veneer on your home. It has the potential to last a lifetime or over 100 years.

Fiber cement siding – According to the survey data, this newer type of exterior siding should last a lifetime.

Natural stone – The number of homes still standing with natural stone siding is proof that the material can last around 100 years.

Stucco – You can expect a stucco finish to remain intact for 50 years or more. The NAHB estimates that the material may complement your home for around 100 years.

Vinyl siding – The reports predict that vinyl siding (one of the most popular siding choices) should protect your home for about 60 to 100 years.

Engineered wood – This is a man-made product composed of wood fibers and pieces, not to be confused with clapboard siding that’s found in older homes. Engineered wood should last a lifetime with proper maintenance.

Another factor to consider is the brand of siding you choose.

James Hardie Siding has a 30-year product warranty and a 15-year paint finish warranty. You can expect James Hardie Siding to last a minimum of 30 years but it will likely last longer.

Alside Siding is backed by a Lifetime Limited Transferable Warranty. Their industry-leading warranties are a written pledge of commitment to quality and performance.

Revere Siding is backed by strong lifetime limited warranties, giving you further assurance you have made an excellent selection for your home.

Royal Siding has a Lifetime Limited Transferable Warranty.

While replacing your siding, it makes sense for some homeowners to get their windows replaced at the same time. After all, you want your home’s exterior to look good from top to bottom. But is it better to replace both the windows and the siding at the same time?

The short answer is yes. Replacing your windows and siding at the same time allows your contractor to set the capping around the window before they install the siding. Capping a window correctly is one of the most important parts of the job because it helps direct water away from the frame and your home’s interior. Replacing both at the same time allows your contractor to set the windows and then install the siding. This may help you save you money in the long run, as well.

According to the Cost vs Value Report, siding can provide up to an 80% return on investment.

In addition, according to the National Association of Realtors, homeowners looking for the most bang for their buck in terms of renovation projects, should put exterior replacement projects, like siding, at the top of the list.

Nothing on the exterior of a home will ever be maintenance free due to the elements; however, siding requires very little. Vinyl siding will need occasional pressure washing to remove dust and dirt, and fiber cement exterior siding, such as James Hardie siding, may need a new coat of paint every 10-15 years. In order keep your exterior siding from wearing, it’s important to make sure your gutters are cleaned and working properly, and that they are pointed away from your home.

Precision Windows and Doors offers replacement siding in the Kansas City area. For a free estimate, call us at 816-524-8999 or 913-649-1199.