Are you shopping for new siding for your home? If so, the process of installation is just as important as picking out what material you want. Siding installation can be a technical and complicated undertaking. The type of siding you choose to install on your home can drastically change how it looks. The following guide will give you information on the different materials available for siding, tips on installation, and examples of different projects.
Choosing the Right Siding for Your Home
There are considerations when choosing the right siding for your home. Some of the factors to keep in mind include aesthetics, cost, durability, and energy efficiency. These factors will help you choose whether you should install vinyl, wood, fiber cement, or another material.
- What Is Your Budget? Start planning by setting a budget for your siding installation project. This can directly impact which materials you choose to use. Vinyl siding materials tend to be cheaper than wood and masonry materials.
- What's Your Time Schedule? If you're looking for a quick fix, vinyl and fiber cement may be ideal options as they can be installed relatively quickly. Wood and masonry materials will require more time to install.
- Which Material Is Suited For The Climate? If you get a lot of snow, ice, or heavy winds, then steel, aluminum, or vinyl siding may be a good option as they stand up better against adverse weather conditions. Wood and masonry materials tend to fare better in areas with mild weather conditions.
In addition, you also want to consider the style of your home when choosing the new siding.
Preparing the Exterior
Siding installation takes time and needs to be done correctly. As such, you will need to prepare the exterior of your home before you get siding installed. The preparation process includes removing any old siding, repairing holes from previous damage, and preparing the surface for new material. This work takes time and is important in the overall installation process.
Installing the Siding
Once you have decided to go with a certain type of siding, the next step is installing it. This is not a job that you should take lightly. It will involve removing whatever siding you have installed now and replacing it with your new material. You will also need to remove any gutters and downspouts that might be in the way and replace them if they do not match up with your new system.
If you are working with a siding contractor, make sure they are licensed and insured, and make sure to request references. If you are painting or staining your siding, this needs to be done after the installation, and you might need to wait if you are installing wood siding.
Finishing the Trim Details
It is best to wait until all of the siding has been installed before getting started on the trim. This will ensure you have room for all of your trim and that they are uniform in style and appearance.
There are many different types of available trims. The most common exterior options include:
- Molding: This type of trim is typically used at the bottom or sides of doors or windows. It can also be used along with corners or around panels. Molding comes in many styles and colors to match any decorating theme you may be using.
- Strip: Also called "lapping" or "bead" molding, this type is typically installed horizontally along with windows and doors. You can use them vertically as well, but typically, they are used horizontally because it gives a more uniform appearance.
- Trim: This type is commonly referred to as casing around windows and doors. It tends to be thicker than other trims, which gives it more strength and durability.
When installing trim, you can choose between wood and composite materials for your home's exterior. The wood materials will need to be painted, while the composites are solid colors that never need painting.
If your home exterior is in constant need of repairs, contact a siding installation service to start planning the renovations for your home. For more information, contact a company like All Pro Exteriors.
