Tag: vinyl siding

Siding Repair

The Basics of Siding Installation

Donna Roberts

Siding Installation Murfreesboro TN involves applying a material to the exterior of your house. It protects it from various environmental elements, and enhances its appearance.

Siding

Start by estimating the square footage of each exterior wall. This will give you a rough estimate of the cost of the siding.

Prepare your home for the project. Inside, clear off any shelves that could fall, and move furniture away from the area. Outside, trim your lawn so crews can work more easily.

The cost of siding installation depends on a number of factors, including the type of material used and the size of the home. It also includes any applicable taxes and fees. The cost of a new roof and windows must also be considered, as these will increase the overall project cost. The best way to get an accurate estimate of the cost is to ask several contractors for quotes.

To determine the amount of material needed, first calculate the total square footage of your exterior walls. Then subtract the size of any windows and doors to find the remaining area. Then divide this figure by 100 to get the square footage of siding material required. This will help you create a budget for the project.

You should keep in mind that the cost of siding may fluctuate depending on the season. Labor and materials tend to be more expensive during summer and early fall, when demand is high. In addition, different types of materials require varying amounts of maintenance and upkeep. For example, vinyl requires little maintenance beyond periodic cleaning, while wood siding needs regular painting or staining to maintain its appearance and protective qualities.

Another factor to consider is the energy efficiency of your home. Some siding is more efficient than others, reducing your energy consumption and helping you save on utility costs. Additionally, certain types of siding may qualify for tax credits, which can reduce your taxable income.

Before installing siding, you should consider your financing options. Some lenders offer loans specifically for siding projects. You can also open a home equity line of credit (HELOC) or borrow against your existing mortgage. If you decide to take out a loan, you should shop around for the best rates. Many contractors offer financing options as well, so be sure to ask about them.

Finally, you should be aware that your homeowners insurance will probably not cover the cost of siding installation. Be sure to discuss this with your insurer before beginning the project. In addition, it is a good idea to remove all vehicles from the driveway during the installation process. This will help prevent damage to your vehicles and reduce the risk of an accident.

Materials

When it comes to choosing the materials for your siding installation, there are many different options to consider. Some of the most important include moisture resistance, wind resistance and the ability to resist sun exposure. You will also want to consider the color, texture and finish of the material. Depending on your project, you may also need to buy accessories such as trim, starter strips, J-channels, corner posts, and drip caps.

When starting your project, you will need to lay down a base layer of sheathing. This will typically be made from oriented-strand board, or OSB. It is similar to plywood, but it is more durable and water-resistant. You will then install a weather barrier, which is a sheet of breathable and waterproof material that will protect the OSB and sheathing from the elements.

Once the base is in place, you will start putting down the siding panels. It is best to start from the bottom of the wall and work upwards. This will help to ensure that the siding is installed in a level fashion and is correctly aligned. You should always apply a little bit of pressure as you nail each panel to the sheathing. This will help prevent over-tightening, which can damage the sheathing and lead to leaks in your home.

As you continue to layer the siding, you will need to cut it to fit around windows and doors. You should leave about a quarter of an inch on either side of the window to allow for natural expansion and contraction. You should also leave a 1/4″clearance above any surface where water may collect, such as steps, porches, and roofs.

Before installing the siding, you will need to nail a strip of furring along the bottoms of all sheathing boards to provide a foundation for the trim and siding. This will prevent moisture from entering the wall cavity and damaging the sheathing or framing. If you are building a house with a box soffit return or a hip roof, you will need to nail an inner band of J-channel under the soffit edge.

Installation

Siding is a great way to increase your home’s resale value and protect it from weather damage and wear. When the siding is in good condition, you’ll also spend less time on maintenance and repair. It’s important to find a contractor with experience in siding installation so that you can be sure the work will be done correctly. A reputable and licensed siding company will have the proper insurance and licensing to provide you with peace of mind throughout the project.

Before the siding is installed, the crew should remove any old caulking and paint to prepare the wall for the new material. This will give the new siding a better surface to adhere to, and it will help prevent moisture from damaging the house. In addition, a waterproof barrier should be applied to the foundation and walls, and flashing should be installed around all doors, windows, and vents to keep water out of the walls.

Once the preparation is complete, the installer will begin installing the new siding panels. They will start at the back of the house, working towards the front, and leave about a quarter inch of space between each panel to create a weather-resistant seal. They will also install a soffit and fascia, which can help to prevent mold and insects. It’s important to make sure that the siding is properly secured so that it won’t shift or buckle, and the fasteners are affixed tightly.

Depending on the type of siding you choose, the installation process can take anywhere from one to several days. It’s important to check with your local government about the required permits and inspections. In some cases, the contractor may be required to provide a permit, especially if it’s a large home improvement project. This will protect homeowners from being fined for improper installation or working without a permit.

It’s also important to make sure that you have enough room for the installation team to move around your house. This is necessary so that the crew can access the areas they need to install the siding and trim. This includes a parking area, where they can park their tools and trucks. You should also remove any items or furniture that could get in the way of the crew’s work, and trim any bushes or shrubbery so they won’t get damaged during the project.

Maintenance

Siding isn’t just a protective exterior for your home; it also provides added insulation, lowering your energy bills. Regular maintenance, inspections and repairs keep your siding looking great and functioning well. When left unattended, your siding can deteriorate and lead to problems like pests, moisture, mold and structural damage. It is important to choose the right type of siding for your area, lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. Siding is available in a variety of colors, finishes and materials. The material you choose should be durable, affordable and complement your architectural style.

Before the siding is installed, your contractor should inspect the walls for any issues that need to be addressed before beginning work. This may include sheathing damage, water rot or the presence of asbestos. These issues should be repaired before proceeding with the project, as new siding will not be securely attached if the sheathing is damaged.

Once any necessary repairs have been completed, the OSB and weather barrier can be installed. Then, the siding panels are placed one by one and nailed in place using hot-dipped galvanized coil nails or 16 gauge finish nails that are resistant to rust. The siding panels are then overlapped, creating a tight seal to prevent water and air infiltration.

After the installation of your siding, a specialized crew will come in and caulk and paint your walls. They will powerwash the walls to clean off any dust and dirt, then swatch your color selection on the wall before they begin painting. Once they are done, the Sherwin Williams Duration topcoat will be applied to your entire house, providing a beautiful, long-lasting finish.

To avoid any surprises during the siding installation process, it is a good idea to buy 10%-20% more material than you need. This will allow you to have a few pieces on hand for future repairs or replacements. Additionally, buying your materials through a professional will save you money because contractors get discounts on materials directly from the manufacturers. If you are planning to hire a contractor for the job, make sure that they are licensed and vetted to pull permits on your behalf. Not doing so could result in hefty fines down the line.

Home Improvement

Types and Styles of Siding

Salman Duke

Siding not only defines a home’s overall look, but also serves to protect the structure from harsh sun and heat, torrential rain and heavy snow. It also offers a variety of insulation options to help reduce energy costs.

Various siding materials include board and batton, clapboard, fascia, furring strips and more. Some offer additional benefits like rot and termite resistance. Contact Charleston Siding Pros now!

Wood siding has long been a popular option for homeowners. With an array of different types and styles to choose from, this material allows you to add a rustic or elegant look to your home’s exterior, while also providing superior insulation. However, the type of wood you choose will greatly impact your siding’s performance. Cedarwood is an excellent choice, as it naturally resists rot and is unattractive to termites. It’s also a durable material that won’t warp or crack as easily as other types of wood, and it can last 30 years or more with regular maintenance.

Ash is another great option, as it is dense and resistant to rotting and insect infestation. It’s also a good choice for types of siding that require milling, like tongue-and-groove, and it can be stained or painted to match your aesthetic. Fir is another popular option for wood house siding, as it’s easy to cut and has little sap or resin that can clog saw blades. It’s a good choice for cabin-style homes, as well as drop channel siding, which offers a sleek, streamlined appearance and provides extra insulating value.

Garapa is a growing favorite amongst homeowners due to its durability and resistance to water damage, while also being highly insect-resistant. It’s an excellent choice for warmer climates, as its light color pigments help reflect sunlight and keep the home cool. Garapa is also relatively easy to work with and requires minimal maintenance. Some manufacturers offer a wood treatment called shou sugi ban, which is the traditional Japanese process of charring timber to make it more durable and give it a striking burnt texture and black color.

Vinyl

Vinyl siding, made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), is an affordable choice that looks much like painted clapboard or shingle siding. It’s lightweight, fade-resistant, and offers a wide range of colors and textures. However, it’s important to understand that it can look rundown if not maintained properly.

Vinyl has become the go-to for many homeowners due to its low initial costs and relatively simple maintenance requirements. It’s a durable and long-lasting product that can stand up to heavy winds, hail, and excessive moisture. However, vinyl can still be susceptible to damage if it’s not installed properly or the wrong product is used.

Typically, the first step in installing vinyl is to apply a water-resistive barrier. This stops incidental water from penetrating the house and causing damage. In addition, code-compliant flashing must be installed to prevent water infiltration around windows and doors.

The next step is to determine the lowest point of the wall that needs sided. It’s important to make sure the surface is flat and level for proper installation. It’s also recommended to install a vapor barrier underneath the vinyl, and a thermal break around the house’s foundation to reduce air infiltration.

When fastening vinyl, it’s important to use ‘loose’ nails to allow for expansion and contraction with varying weather conditions. Over tightening can cause the vinyl to pull away from the house and leave gaps that allow water to infiltrate and create other problems, such as mold, mildew, or rot.

It’s a good idea to buy extra vinyl material to allow for waste during the installation process and for future repairs. It’s also a good idea to consult a professional prior to selecting the perfect style for your home. This professional will be able to help you find the best color to match your neighborhood and your personal style.

Aluminum

Aluminum siding is a popular option for homeowners who are looking to clad their homes in a durable and attractive material. This is because aluminum is a tough, lightweight material that can resist damage caused by harsh weather conditions. It is also easy to install, making it a cost-effective alternative to other types of siding.

Unlike steel, aluminum doesn’t rust, so you don’t have to worry about it being damaged by rain or high humidity. And unlike vinyl, aluminum can withstand strong winds without the panels being ripped off the home. Aluminum is available with a smooth or natural-looking wood grain finish, so it can provide a modern or traditional aesthetic for the home. In addition, it’s easier to maintain than other materials, such as vinyl. This is because aluminum doesn’t have to be painted as often as other siding options, since the color goes all the way through the material.

One drawback of aluminum is that it can crack, dent and scratch, which can be a problem for some homeowners. However, this can be corrected by installing a thicker gauge of the material. Thicker siding is more resistant to damage and provides better insulating properties that can save money on energy costs in the long run.

Another benefit of aluminum siding is that it’s a sustainable and environmentally-friendly material. It can be recycled again and again, unlike vinyl, which is only good for a single cycle of recycling before it ends up in landfills, where it pollutes the environment with harmful chemicals. It is also fire-resistant, which is a huge advantage in areas with wildfire risks. However, it is important to note that while aluminum does have many benefits, it is not maintenance-free. It still needs to be repainted periodically, just like other siding materials do.

Steel

Steel siding is traditionally found on commercial buildings, but it has become a popular alternative for homeowners who prioritize durability and aesthetics. It can withstand severe weather conditions and pests, as well as offer resistance to fire. It is also an excellent choice for builders who are looking to maximize energy efficiency. Steel siding is available in a variety of styles, including panels that resemble logs for a rustic cabin look. It can be painted to match any color or design, and may come with a wood-like texture that provides more contrast with light and shadow than standard vinyl or wood siding options.

Steel panels do not deteriorate as easily as other types of siding, which helps minimize maintenance requirements and saves money in the long run. Homeowners can typically expect to get 50 years out of steel siding before it needs panel replacement, whereas wood or vinyl may last between 40-60 years. Steel is a more durable option than aluminum, and manufacturers may provide a warranty that covers issues like cracking, chipping, peeling, chalking, and fading. Quality Edge, for example, offers a lifetime warranty on its TruCedar steel siding products.

In addition to the longevity and durability of steel siding, it is highly recyclable, which can help reduce environmental impact. It is also easy to maintain, with mild soap and water usually sufficient to keep it looking new. Because it is more durable than other types of siding, steel can withstand heavy impacts from hail or flying debris, making it an excellent choice for homes in areas prone to harsh weather conditions.

Composites

Composite siding is a newer alternative to vinyl and wood. It’s engineered to withstand harsh weather conditions, resist pests and rot, and maintain its appearance with minimal maintenance.

Like wood, it is available in a wide variety of colors and styles. It is also easy to paint, allowing homeowners to refresh the look of their home with little hassle.

In addition to being water resistant, composites can withstand high temperatures and are often fire-rated. This feature is particularly beneficial for those in areas prone to wildfires.

Composites are also designed to resist rot, mold, mildew, and other environmental factors that can damage traditional siding materials. They’re typically built with reinforced cores, and many manufacturers use advanced technology to create a durable surface that’s resistant to impact and abrasions.

Unlike traditional wood, which can attract termites and other pests, composites are often infused with anti-termite additives. Additionally, some manufacturers utilize a protective coating to prevent damage from insects and moisture.

Many homeowners choose to install composites because they are long-lasting and can withstand harsh weather conditions. This durability means fewer repairs and replacements, saving homeowners money in the long run.

One of the biggest benefits of composites is that they’re more eco-friendly than vinyl and wood alternatives. Manufacturers use recycled materials and efficient production processes to minimize energy consumption and reduce waste. In addition, most are devoted to sustainability and use yearly audits to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.