Siding & Cladding FAQ

We install all major siding types including: vinyl siding, James Hardie fiber cement siding, LP SmartSide engineered wood siding, composite siding, stucco, and natural wood cladding. As a James Hardie Elite Preferred contractor, we specialize in fiber cement siding which offers superior durability, fire resistance, and aesthetics.

James Hardie is the leading fiber cement siding brand, made from sand, cement, and cellulose fibers. It's popular because it resists rot, fire, termites, and warping. ColorPlus Technology provides factory-applied, baked-on color with superior fade resistance. It looks like real wood without the maintenance. It's the #1 siding brand in America for good reason.

Timeline depends on home size and siding type. A typical home takes 1-2 weeks. Vinyl siding installs fastest (3-5 days for an average home). Fiber cement takes longer due to more precise cutting and finishing (5-10 days). We remove old siding, repair any damaged sheathing, install housewrap, and then apply your new siding.

Siding lifespan varies by material: vinyl siding lasts 20-40 years, James Hardie fiber cement 30-50+ years, LP SmartSide 25-40 years, stucco 50+ years, and natural wood 15-25 years (with regular maintenance). We help you choose materials that balance upfront cost with long-term value.

Sometimes, but we typically recommend against it. Installing over old siding can hide damage, create moisture problems, and void warranties. Removing old siding lets us inspect and repair sheathing, ensure proper housewrap installation, and start fresh. The additional cost is worth it for a proper, long-lasting installation.

Housewrap is a weather-resistant barrier installed over your sheathing and behind your siding. It allows moisture vapor to escape while preventing water and air infiltration. Quality housewrap (like Tyvek or Henry Blueskin) is essential for energy efficiency and preventing moisture damage. We never skip this critical step.

Maintenance depends on material: Vinyl siding needs occasional washing with a hose and mild detergent. Fiber cement may need repainting every 15-20 years. Wood siding requires regular painting or staining. All siding benefits from annual inspections for damage, loose pieces, or caulk failures. Trim trees away from your home to prevent damage.

Modern siding offers extensive color options. James Hardie offers 700+ colors including their 23 pre-finished ColorPlus Technology colors. Vinyl siding comes in dozens of colors, though color-through options resist fading better. We can help you choose colors that complement your roof, trim, and neighborhood aesthetics. We offer color consultation as part of our service.

Yes, partial siding replacement is possible for damaged sections. However, matching existing siding can be challenging if it's faded or discontinued. For the best results, we often recommend replacing entire walls or elevations. We'll assess your situation and provide honest recommendations during your consultation.

Yes, we repair siding damage from storms, impacts, rot, and general wear. Repairs can include replacing individual panels or boards, fixing loose siding, recaulking, and addressing water damage. For extensive damage or older siding, full replacement may be more cost-effective. We provide honest assessments.

Lap siding (horizontal boards overlapping each other) is the most common style, offering a classic look. Board and batten (vertical boards with narrow strips covering joints) provides a farmhouse or modern aesthetic. Both are available in fiber cement, vinyl, and wood. We can combine styles for visual interest, like board and batten on gables with lap siding on main walls.

Fiber cement typically costs 2-3x more than vinyl installed. However, it lasts longer (30-50 years vs 20-30), looks more like real wood, resists fire and impact better, and often qualifies for lower insurance rates. For homes in our climate, fiber cement's superior performance often justifies the investment. We help you weigh the options.

We carefully remove gutters before siding installation and reinstall them after, at no extra charge. This is a good opportunity to inspect your gutters and consider upgrades. If your gutters are old or damaged, we can install new seamless aluminum gutters as part of your project.

Yes, we can add insulation during siding replacement. Options include foam board insulation behind siding (R-value 3-5), insulated siding products with built-in foam backing, or blown-in insulation if walls are opened. Adding insulation improves energy efficiency and comfort. We assess your current insulation and recommend improvements.

Yes, new siding offers one of the best returns on investment for home improvements. According to Remodeling Magazine's Cost vs. Value Report, siding replacement typically returns 70-80% of the investment at resale. Beyond financial return, new siding improves curb appeal, energy efficiency, and protection, making your home more attractive to buyers.