Questions Answered About Home Exterior Siding

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Are you considering replacing your home exterior siding? We’ve got your questions answered! It’s a huge project, both emotionally and financially. That said, our brick&batten experts have some advice to help you make an informed decision before you go ripping off your home’s cladding.

#1 //  Do I really need new siding?

An option to be considered is repairing your existing siding. If you’re looking at simple cracks or minor weather damage, replacing may be overkill! However, water has a tendency to find its way into the smallest of cracks, creating more damage and rot. If that’s the case, replacing is definitely your best option.

Before and after of a home with siding that needed to be replaced

#2 //  I think I need new siding. When is the weather the best to replace it?

When you’re ready to replace your siding, weather is an important factor is getting the job done correctly. Extreme heat and cold temperatures aren’t best, and spring showers may cause moisture issues; therefore, look for days of moderate weather. Fall temperatures and conditions seem to work well.

A contractor adds new siding to a home exterior

#3 // Will insurance pay for my siding replacement?

Insurance should always be considered before replacing house siding. It doesn’t hurt to contact your insurance company, especially if you’ve noticed cracks or damage in the siding. If it is storm damage, that’s a bonus, because many times insurance will pick up the cost to replace or repair!

Holes in exterior wall siding from hail damage

#4 // Is this a DIY project or should I hire a professional?

Siding replacement is NOT a DIY project unless you are contracted to do so. A professional will get the job done right, which will save you money in the long run. Also, the work of a professional is usually insured (and this is something to ask when hiring someone!), so if it’s not done correctly it can be redone at no cost to you.

#5 //  Are there different options for siding material and budget?

YES! We have had great luck with James Hardie siding at brick&batten. Other options include Exterior Portfolio and American Dream Edge. There are tons options for different home styles and budgets. Possibilities are endless: cedar, smooth, colonial, vertical, horizontal, shingle, etc. Consult the experts for a decision that suits your needs and the longevity of your home.

Before and after of a home rendered with Hardieplank Smooth Siding

#6 //  What is the difference between vinyl siding and fiber cement siding?

Vinyl siding is more susceptible to weather elements. It expands and contracts due to moisture build-up. It’s less expensive; therefore appears attractive at first inspection. That said, fiber cement siding is in it for the long haul if maintained. It’s designed from fiber cement to ensure climate resistance and that wood-boring insects, birds, and other critters can’t find a home inside.Fiber cement also has a more natural look for homeowners looking to mimick real wood.

 

Before and after of a home rendered with Hardieshingle Straight Edge Siding

#7 //  When I google fiber cement siding, it says “hardieplank.” Is there a difference?

No. James Hardie is a popular manufacturer of fiber cement siding. Because of this, sometimes this type of siding is referred to as “hardieplank.”

Before you replace your siding…

Overall, at brick&batten we opt for simple, easy changes.

Our first recommendation is always to define the siding problem and analyze if your siding needs to be repaired or replaced.

Second, if you decide to replace your siding, get a contractor to find what caused the problem… could it be weather?

Next, if you suspect the problems are weather-related, reach out to your insurance company.

Finally, our brick&batten team is ready to help you with a virtual exterior design. Let us take the guesswork out of your choices by selecting the correct color and style for your home, giving you the ability to make informed decisions before having your siding repaired or replaced. Get started today.

Author

Cassie co-founded brick&batten in 2017 with her sister, Alli, but her love of home design was born years earlier. Cassie’s passion for design can be traced back to her childhood, when she’d accompany her parents on road trips through small towns in search of inspiration for properties they would buy, fix up, and sell. Prior to launching brick&batten, Cassie worked as a fourth grade teacher, but her love of design, architecture, home renovation, and open houses inspired her to pursue a new career. When writing for brick&batten, Cassie aims to empower homeowners to make the best informed decisions for their property. She knows from experience how challenging home renovation can be, and when she writes, she puts herself in the shoes of every homeowner with similar frustrations. Cassie currently lives in Florida with her four children, an old dog, and her loving husband. When she’s not working, Cassie is most likely checking out a nearby open house or traveling to learn about the latest house trends.