Siding plays a vital role in protecting your home from the elements and enhancing its curb appeal. Whether you’re embarking on a major home improvement project or simply looking to update your property’s exterior, understanding the ins and outs of the installation process is essential. Below, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about installing siding, from the basics to the finer details that can affect the longevity and performance of your home’s exterior.

The Basics of Siding Installation

What is the Purpose of Siding?

Siding serves as your home’s protective outer layer, shielding it and your family from various environmental factors. It acts as a barrier against rain, snow, wind, and sunlight, preventing moisture from penetrating its structure. Beyond its protective function, siding also contributes significantly to your home’s aesthetic appeal and can even improve its energy efficiency.

Common Siding Materials

When it comes to siding materials, homeowners have several options to choose from. Each material has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice often depends on factors such as climate, budget, and personal preference.

  • Wood siding: Wood offers a timeless, natural look that many homeowners find appealing. It can be painted or stained to match any color scheme and provides excellent insulation. However, wood requires regular maintenance, including painting or staining every few years, and is susceptible to rot, insect infestation, and fire.
  • Brick siding: Brick is known for its durability and classic appearance. It’s fire-resistant, low-maintenance, and can last for decades. On the downside, brick siding is one of the more expensive options and can be challenging to install or repair.
  • Vinyl siding: Vinyl siding installation has become increasingly popular due to its affordability, low maintenance requirements, and versatility. It comes in a wide range of colors and styles, including options that mimic the look of wood. Vinyl is resistant to insects and moisture, and it doesn’t require painting. However, it can crack in extreme cold and may fade over time when exposed to strong sunlight.
  • Fiber cement siding: This material offers the best of both worlds, combining the durability of cement with the appearance of wood or masonry. It’s resistant to fire, insects, and rot, and it holds paint well, requiring less frequent repainting than wood. Fiber cement can withstand harsh weather conditions and typically comes with a long warranty. While it’s more expensive than other options, its longevity and low maintenance needs make it a cost-effective choice in the long run.

An Overview of the Siding Installation Process

Understanding the siding installation process can help homeowners appreciate the complexity of this home improvement project. Whether you’re considering a DIY approach or hiring a professional contractor, knowing these key steps will give you valuable insight into what to expect:

  1. The siding installation process typically begins with a thorough inspection of the existing structure. Any damaged or rotting wood is repaired or replaced to ensure a solid foundation.
  2. Next, a weather barrier house wrap is installed to provide an additional layer of protection against moisture.
  3. The siding material is then carefully measured, cut, and installed, starting from the bottom and working upwards. Special attention is given to corners, windows, and doors to ensure proper sealing and aesthetics.
  4. The process concludes with the installation of trim pieces and a final inspection to ensure everything is secure and properly aligned.

Related: Guide to Replacement Siding

Signs Your House Needs New Siding

Your home’s siding is a critical line of defense against the elements. Over time, even the most durable siding can show signs of wear and tear, compromising its ability to provide home security. Recognizing these signs early can save you from costly home repairs down the line and help maintain your home’s value and energy efficiency.

Bubbles or Blisters

If you notice bubbles or blisters forming on your siding, it’s a clear indication that moisture has become trapped beneath the surface. This can lead to more severe damage if left unaddressed, potentially compromising your home’s structural integrity. These blisters can also create an ideal environment for mold growth.

Fungus, Mold, or Mildew Around Seams

The presence of fungus, mold, or mildew around the seams of your siding is a red flag. These growths indicate that moisture is penetrating your siding, which can lead to more serious issues if not addressed promptly. Beyond the structural concerns, these biological growths can also pose health risks to you and your family, particularly for those with respiratory issues or allergies. It’s essential to address this problem quickly to prevent the spread of mold inside your walls and to maintain a healthy living environment.

Large Cracks or Pieces Constantly Coming Loose

While small cracks can often be repaired and individual siding panels replaced, large cracks or siding panels that frequently come loose are signs your siding has reached the end of its lifespan. These issues can allow water to penetrate your home’s structure, leading to more extensive damage. Additionally, loose siding panels can be a safety hazard. During high winds, they may detach completely and cause injury or property damage.

Higher Energy Bills

If you’ve noticed a sudden increase in your energy bills without a corresponding change in your energy usage, your siding might be to blame. Damaged or outdated siding can allow heat to escape in winter and enter in summer, forcing your HVAC system to work harder. This not only impacts your comfort but also puts unnecessary strain on your heating and cooling equipment, potentially shortening its lifespan. Investing in new, energy-efficient siding can help reduce these costs and improve your home’s overall energy performance.

Rotting or Warping

Visible signs of wood rot or warping on your siding are clear indicators that it’s time for a replacement. These issues not only affect your home’s appearance but also compromise its protection against the elements. Rotting wood siding can spread quickly, potentially affecting the underlying structure of your home and leading to costly repairs. Warped siding, on the other hand, can create gaps that allow pests to enter your home, adding another layer of potential problems to address.

Factors to Consider When Planning for Siding Installation

Selecting the Right Siding Material for Your Home

Choosing the right siding material involves considering various factors, including your local climate, budget, desired maintenance level, and aesthetic preferences. Durability should be a top priority in areas with extreme weather conditions. For homeowners looking for a low-maintenance option, vinyl or fiber cement might be the best choice. Consider your home’s architectural style as well—some materials may complement your home’s design better than others.

Understanding the Cost of Siding Installation

The cost of installing siding can vary significantly depending on the material chosen, the size of your home, and the complexity of the installation. While it’s tempting to opt for the cheapest option, it’s important to consider long-term value. More expensive materials may have higher upfront costs but can offer savings over time due to their durability and low maintenance requirements. For example, vinyl siding costs tend to be in the more affordable range, and the material lasts about 20-40 years. On the other hand, fiber cement has a higher cost of installation but can last around 50 years with proper maintenance.

How Weather Conditions Impact Siding Installation

Weather plays a crucial role in siding installation. Extreme temperatures, high humidity, or precipitation can affect the installation process and the performance of certain materials. For instance, if you install vinyl siding in very cold temperatures, it can become brittle and prone to cracking. It’s best to schedule your siding installation during mild weather conditions to ensure optimal results.

Professional Siding Installation vs. DIY

Challenges and Benefits of DIY Siding Installation

A DIY siding project can seem appealing to handy homeowners looking to save money. It allows for complete control over the project timeline and can be a rewarding experience. However, installing siding is a complex process that requires specific skills and tools. Mistakes can lead to poor performance, reduced lifespan, and potentially void manufacturer warranties. DIY installation also takes significantly more time than professional installation.

Pros and Cons of Professional Siding Installation

Professional siding installation offers several advantages. Experienced contractors have the skills, tools, and knowledge to ensure the installation is performed correctly, reducing the risk of problems like moisture damage and pest infestations down the line. They can also identify and address any underlying issues with your home’s structure. Professional contractors typically offer warranties, providing peace of mind. However, professional installation is more expensive than DIY and may require you to work around the contractor’s schedule.

Which Is the Right Choice for Homeowners?

While DIY siding installation might seem like a cost-effective option, the complexity of the job and the potential for costly mistakes make professional contractor installation the recommended choice for most homeowners. Proper installation is important for the performance and longevity of your siding, and the expertise of professional installers can make a significant difference in the final result.

See Our Springboro Siding Contractor Service Page

Trust the Siding Installation Experts

When it comes to protecting your home and enhancing its value, it’s essential to partner with a professional siding contractor. Titan Siding and Roofing stands out as a trusted name in the Greater Cincinnati area, offering top-quality fiber cement and vinyl siding installation services. With years of experience and a commitment to customer satisfaction and exceptional craftsmanship, our team of siding experts ensures that every installation project is completed to the highest standards. Whether you’re dealing with storm damage, looking to upgrade your home’s exterior, or building a new property, we have the expertise to meet your siding installation needs.

See Our Ohio Siding Installation Service Page

FAQs

How long does siding installation typically take?

The duration of siding installation depends on several factors, including the size of your home, the type of siding being installed, and weather conditions. For an average-sized home, professional installation typically takes about 4-14 days. However, larger homes or more complex installations may take longer. Factors that can extend the timeline include the need for extensive repairs to the underlying structure, custom detailing, or inclement weather. It’s best to discuss the estimated timeline with your chosen contractor before the project begins to set realistic expectations.

What is the average lifespan of different types of siding?

The lifespan of siding varies depending on the material:

  • Vinyl siding typically lasts 20-40 years
  • Fiber cement siding can last 50 years or more with proper maintenance
  • Wood siding generally lasts 20-40 years but requires regular maintenance, including refinishing every 3-5 years
  • Brick siding can last 100 years or more

These are average lifespans, and actual durability can be influenced by factors such as climate, maintenance, and installation quality. Regular inspections and proper care can help extend the life of your siding regardless of the material chosen.

Can you install new siding over existing siding?

In some cases, it is possible to install new siding over existing siding, a process known as “re-siding.” This can be done with certain types of siding, such as installing vinyl siding over wood siding. However, it’s not always the best option. Installing new siding over old can hide underlying problems like rot or water damage. It can also affect the home’s energy efficiency and may void some manufacturer warranties.

A professional siding contractor should inspect your existing siding to determine whether re-siding is a viable option or if it’s better to remove the old siding before installation. In most cases, removing the old siding and starting fresh is recommended for the best results and long-term performance.