Siding installation Chicago requires professional contractors capable of providing the service and also requires some preparation on the part of homeowners. It is a project that involves both the contractor and the homeowner to work together ensuring a seamless and stress free installation process. Plus, it is always a good idea for homeowners to do some research about the work being done on their homes, whether they are an installation or a siding repair in Chicago.
By having basic knowledge about the process, homeowners will be guided accordingly and will not make mistakes that can be easily avoided. This is what it takes to prepare the home for the different types of siding installation:
Preparing for Vinyl Sidings
Vinyl siding is the most popular choice of siding as it is the most affordable option. What homeowners forget to factor in when budgeting for their vinyl siding installation is the cost of insulation. While some vinyl sidings come with insulating material many do not, this is why it is still best to fill in the cracks in between the inner structure and the siding to prevent cracking, warping, and buckling in the future.
Professional siding contractors may offer the insulation as a part of their services, but it is best to consult with them for confirmation.
Preparing for Wood Sidings
The difference between vinyl and wood is the space left between the wall and the exterior siding. Wooden sidings are tightly attached to the wall, leaving no room for insulation, but that is not required because wood functions as its own insulator. While there is hardly any preparation involved during the installation of horizontal siding, vertical panels may require extra effort. As long as the contractor is experienced and skilled this should not be difficult for them to accomplish.
Siding a Masonry Wall
Homes with bricks or stones for walls are generally harder to prepare for siding installation because siding cannot easily attach on such material. Imagine trying to nail down wooden siding panels onto a brick wall; it will only cause more damage than anything else. It is a very tedious process, but siding contractors would be able to do the job correctly without many issues.
It is important to get a siding installation company to inspect the home before proceeding with the project, just so they can prepare the right tools and techniques to get the job done.
Dealing with Existing Siding
Some homeowners with houses that already have a layer of existing siding may still want to get new siding installed over the existing. This is possible, only if the proper preparation steps are followed, here’s how it is done:
First is to ensure that all rotten or broken boards are replaced and nailed down into place. Next, clean and scrape off loose caulk and then re-caulk the areas for protection against moisture. After this step, remove any and all protrusions like the gutters and downspouts. Next proceed with sealing all the cracks to ensure the interior wall is airtight and leak-free. Last is to ensure that the wall is even before the new siding layer is installed.
Work Closely with Your Contractor
There are sidings where manufacturers are very explicit with installation instructions. Most will have the experience and knowledge when it comes to different siding installation preparations, but it is still recommended to work alongside the contractors to reduce the chances of damage and installation problems. Talk to the siding contractor to ensure you are both on the same page to avoid errors due to miscommunication.
Hire a contractor that you can trust and will offer warranties for their job. Something as simple as an extended warranty shows their confidence with their capabilities and provides security for homeowners to fall back on. Choose wisely because their work will affect your home’s structure and lifespan.
