What Should You Expect From Your Home Siding Replacement?

Once you’ve noticed the unsightly signs of deterioration or aging on your home’s siding, it’s hard to ignore them. And what’s worse, old siding isn’t just an aesthetic issue; it’s a major problem that can affect the whole structure of your home. You need new siding, but you also need a skilled, trustworthy contractor, and an idea of what the installation process will look like.

What are a few obvious signs that it’s time for new siding?

• Your siding has started to rot or crumble
• You see cracks or gaps in the siding
• You’re seeking a lower-maintenance siding option
• You’ve noticed rising energy bills and you suspect compromised siding is the cause
• Your siding is warped or bulging in some places
• You discover rot, mold, or mildew
• You’re wanting to update your home’s appearance, boost curb appeal, or improve your home’s resale value

New siding is an investment in the future of your home, and there are so many options available now to reflect your style and withstand the elements. The siding of today is far more durable and long-lasting than the siding of years’ past. But replacing your siding is also a major renovation. What does this process entail? How long will it take? How can you prepare your home for a successful installation?

Here’s what to expect from a reliable contractor when you’re having new siding installed:

Preparing Your Home

There are a few steps to take before your contractor arrives to ensure that the installation of your new siding goes as smoothly as possible. 

What should you know about getting your home ready for a replacement siding project?

• Trim or tie back all trees and shrubs that are near your home’s exterior
• Move anything that is set close to the exterior structure of your home like pots and planters or patio furniture
• Take pictures and other hanging items located on exterior walls off the walls so they do not fall and break
• Clear your driveway to make room for a dumpster for the old siding
• Park your car far away from your home to avoid damage from falling debris
• Keep children and pets away from the work area and make plans for pets that might be bothered by the sounds of your renovation

The more you can do to get your home and yard ready for the replacement of your existing siding, the easier it will be for your contractors to perform exceptional work—and what could be better than that?

Replacing Your Home’s Siding

Once your contractor arrives, they’ll get to work removing your old, worn siding so they can install the new siding. What should you expect when work begins?

• Old siding is removed. During this time, your contractor should also check for water damage or rot.

• Repair and assessment of your wall. Your siding needs to be attached to a sturdy, in-tact wall. Your contractor may need to mend certain sections of your walls.

• Installation of insulation. Your contractor will check to be sure that your home is properly insulated, and add or replace insulation as necessary. This includes the insulation of a weather-resistant barrier to keep moisture and humidity outside, where they belong.
• Installation of new siding. New siding is installed according to your manufacturer’s specifications.

Generally, this work takes about two weeks to complete with quality work and meticulous attention to detail.

Once your contractor has finished with the installation, they should also clean up your yard, checking for dangerous nails, screws, or other potentially harmful waste that’s been left behind. Really thorough clean-up crews, like our team at Siding Pro, will also use a magnetic pole to double-check that all nails have been found and thrown away.

Protecting Your Warranty

Many siding manufacturers have warranties on their own materials. You should be sure when hiring a contractor in Colorado Springs, that you choose a professional who will install your siding according to manufacturer instructions to protect your warranty. Some siding manufacturers, like James Hardie Siding, have installation specifications to ensure that your warranty stays intact and your siding remains an efficient protective barrier for your home for years to come.

Siding Pro is a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor, which means that our company is one of a small, select group of contractors throughout the country that are certified in the proper techniques to install James Hardie fiber cement siding.

For years, we’ve been dedicated to exceptional craftsmanship, top-of-the-line materials, and unbeatable customer service for homeowners throughout Colorado Springs. If you’re ready for new siding, we’re here to help. It’s time for new siding—schedule a free consultation and quote today!