Frequently Asked Questions: Siding
You have questions; we have answers! Read on to find the answers to some of our customers’ most common questions about new siding.
How often should I replace my siding?
The answer to this question varies drastically depending on your siding material. Vinyl or Composite siding is made to last 30 years or longer, while Fiber Cement siding can last up to 50 years or longer.
How do I know if I need new siding?
Here’s what to look for when determining whether you’re due for replacement siding:
- Rot, even if it’s minimal. Don’t wait to replace your siding at the first sign of decay! The damage will only get worse if it goes untreated.
- Warped panels, leaving your home exposed to the elements. Warping could be the result of shoddy installation, or it may naturally appear over time. Either way, warped panels can lead to water damage, so they should be addressed immediately.
- Discoloration due to sun-fading. If your siding requires regular painting, now is a great time to upgrade to vinyl siding! Because the color is baked into each panel, you will never have to paint vinyl siding, requiring minimal maintenance.
- Cracks or chips on multiple panels. While minor damage on a single panel can be repaired, it comes time to replace your siding when it appears across your entire home’s facade.
- Homes built in the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s were often built with Masonite wood or hardboard siding – which is susceptible to rot, termites, and water damage. Masonite siding was phased out in March of 2001 as the result of a lawsuit. Homes with Masonite siding are strongly encouraged to opt for replacement siding of composite, vinyl, or fiber cement options.
What siding material is best?
There are pros and cons to all siding materials. To find the best option for your needs, weigh the benefits of each to your unique expectations.
Benefits of Vinyl or Composite Siding Include:
- Most popular option in America today
- Affordable and low maintenance
- Does not require painting
- Vinyl Siding lasts an average of 30 years depending on the elements.
- Simple cleanup with a garden hose
- All States recommends their composite siding with contour foam that holds up better in our Kansas weather than traditional vinyl siding.
Benefits of Fiber Cement Siding Include:
- Resists cracks and warping
- Equipped to resist damage from rain, wind, snow, and ice
- Fiber cement siding typically lasts up to 50 years if it is properly installed.
- James Hardie fiber cement siding is the highest quality brand of siding available. It will not rot, crack, warp, or swell, and is hail & fire resistant – so you may even get a discount on your homeowners’ insurance.
Read: Vinyl vs. Fiber Cement Siding: Which is Best for You?
How much will new siding cost?
As with many home improvement projects, the price will vary greatly depending on the size of the job and the type of materials used. The best way to answer this question is to contact us for a consultation. Our team will evaluate your homes’ needs, go over siding options and offer solutions to fit your budget. We also offer financing options with payments starting at $98/month.
What color siding should I choose?
The color of your siding will have a significant impact on the personality of your home. Whether you live in a highly regulated community with strict HOA guidelines or a quirky neighborhood with colorful houses, our design experts can help you select the perfect hue to match your preferred aesthetic. If you choose a composite or vinyl siding, you have a variety of colors to choose from with the color baked into the material. If fiber cement siding is your choice, you will have endless color choices as you choose the paint for your new siding.
Read: What Color Should You Choose for Your New Siding?
What should I do to prepare for new siding?
The most important thing to do before installation specialists arrive is to remove any non-permanent items from the perimeter of your home. Security cameras will need to be removed and any ‘live’ cables attached to the home, will need to be marked. If possible, trim any bushes or trees near your home and move potted plants and lawn ornaments. To prepare the interior of your home, remove any valuable items from the walls to prevent them from being damaged or broken.
Read: New Siding Installation: What to Expect
How long will installation take?
Your installation timeline will depend on the size of your home and the siding material of choice. However, our skilled team often finishes siding installation in 2 to 5 days.
Call All States Home Improvement for a FREE Estimate on Siding
We have been installing composite and fiber cement siding in Kansas for nearly 30 years, and we have solutions to fit every budget and aesthetic. Each of our siding installation specialists has undergone countless hours of factory and on-the-job training to ensure that we get the job done right- the first time. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
You Might Also Like:
Vinyl vs. Fiber Cement Siding: Which is Best for You?
