When it comes to home improvement and repair projects, many homeowners tend to place their focus on the interior of their homes. This is understandable since we spend most of our times indoors rather than outside. However, this doesn’t mean that you can afford to neglect the exterior of your home. Unfortunately, this does happen at times with homeowners only taking notice of their exteriors when damage has already occurred. This is typically true when it comes to the siding of a home.
Siding plays an important role in your home as it is responsible for preventing precipitation and moisture from the air to enter your home. Of course, this is what it normally does when it’s in good condition. Over time, siding will sustain damage and will require repairs and/or replacement.
If you are a first-time homeowner in need of siding repair and replacement, the first step you should take is to get in touch with respected local siding repair contractors. They can easily identify the extent of the damage, make the necessary repairs, and ensure proper installation.
As a first-time homeowner, you probably have a wide range of questions you want to ask about the project. Here are some frequently asked questions surrounding siding repair and replacement to help you prepare for the project ahead:
When should I have my siding repaired or replaced?
Naturally, you’ll want to be able to identify whether or not you’ll need repair services in the first place. Fortunately, it’s relatively easy to do this since siding will always display telltale signs of their deterioration. If you notice any of the following, you should probably get in touch with a contractor:
Siding has Accumulated Chips, Cracks, and Dents
Cracks, chips, and dents pose a big problem as they represent breaches in the barrier your siding has set up. Even the smallest crack can allow a large amount of moisture inside your home. This may lead to water accumulating inside your walls and promoting the growth of harmful molds. If you find any cracks or chips, you’ll want to try and patch those up temporarily until a professional can come in and replace your siding.
Wood Sidings are Suffering from Dry Rot
Forgetting to reseal wood siding can provide moisture an opportunity to seep behind the wooden panels. Even in this small space, moisture can create an environment that is perfect for mold growth. This situation is called dry rot and causes wood siding to rot from the inside out. One of the quickest ways to test wood siding for dry rot is to gently press a flathead screwdriver on the surface of your siding. If the wood gives way, that particular panel and its surrounding panels may already be suffering from dry rot.
You Find Signs of Bubbles or Blisters
Bubbles or blisters often form during the summer. This is because the heat causes water that has become trapped underneath the siding to evaporate. Unfortunately, the finish of your siding prevents the water vapor from escaping, forming a pocket of air underneath. The blisters themselves are harmless, but they are a glaring sign that the integrity of your siding has been compromised.
How much will new siding cost me?
One of the most questions homeowners ask about siding repair and replacement is definitely “how much does siding cost?” That mostly depends on the type of siding you choose. As a general rule of thumb, lightweight materials are more affordable and are easier to install for siding contractors. Heavier materials can be a bit more expensive, but you are paying for incredible durability that lasts for twenty years or more. Siding will be as affordable or as expensive as you and your budget dictates. Don’t hesitate to share what you’re looking for in new siding and your budget. Experienced contractors like Muller Exteriors can easily provide you with a shortlist of options that offer a perfect fit.
What are my replacement options?
There are many different types of siding to choose from in today’s market. Whether you love the classic look of wood or you are looking for a low-maintenance choice, there will always be an option available to you. Of course, there are a few types of siding that are incredibly popular in homes around Chicago and the rest of the United States. These include:
- Vinyl
- Vinyl siding has been around since the 1950s, but today’s versions are far superior to their original counterparts. It boasts a respectable service life due to the fact that the material doesn’t rust and it deters termites. Improvements to the production process have also allowed manufacturers to make vinyl mimic the look of other materials, providing you with aesthetic flexibility. This lightweight option is one of the most affordable types of siding available and is quite simple for experienced siding contractors to install.
- Wood
- If you prefer the traditional look for your home’s exterior, you’ll definitely want to go with wood siding. This type of siding is celebrated for its timeless beauty, which would explain why so many other types of siding try to mimic the look of wood. Aesthetics isn’t the only reason why wood siding is a great choice. Due to its popularity, wood siding is very easy to find. In the event that you only need to replace two or three panels in the future, it’s simple to find replacements that match the rest of what’s already installed. Wood is also a breeze to install for siding contractors, helping you save on installation costs.
- Fiber Cement
- Fiber cement siding is a relatively new option, but one that is gaining a massive following throughout the U.S. This type of siding is made from a combination of cement, sand, and recycled wood fibers. Due to the chemical reactions of the materials, fiber cement siding is extremely durable and naturally resists fire, wind, and termites. Perhaps one of the biggest reasons it’s so popular is that all the materials used to manufacture it are renewable, making fiber cement siding a perfect choice for those who want eco-friendly additions to their home.
- Aluminum
- Aluminum siding is another classic siding option that has been used for decades. Although its use isn’t as common as it once was, aluminum siding still offers homeowners an impressive list of benefits. First off is its durability of 40 years or more when it is well-maintained. Second, aluminum does not rust despite being a metal. This is fantastic news as Chicago does get quite humid during the summer. Issues like rot and termite infestations are also something you need not worry about if you decide to go with aluminum siding.
Once you’ve chosen which type of siding you prefer and it has been installed, make sure you carefully read up on how to maintain your new siding. Preventive maintenance may seem like a chore most of the time, but it is vital in extending the lifespan of your siding and making sure you get the best value out of your purchase.
These are only three of the most commonly asked questions that contractors get from homeowners. If you have other questions that were not discussed here, do not hesitate to ask your chosen siding repair company those questions. Experienced siding contractors are always happy to answer your questions to help you better understand the project and make better decisions when it comes to your siding.
