A complete siding installation is no easy feat. It’s too big of an endeavor to undertake alone, especially with all the details and factors involved in the process. Even if you’ve gone through previous remodeling projects yourself, it’s still too big for you to handle alone. You can be sure of the project’s success when you work with someone with the right experience and get the job done correctly.
Just like any other renovation, siding projects follow a set process. As long as you take the time to understand each step, it can be done professionally and efficiently. If you’re not sure where to start, top local remodeler Peninsula Siding Company, Inc. shares what you need to do.
Find Inspiration
Though you could replace your current siding with the same material, upgrading to a better option for your home exterior is much better. Modern siding materials offer many features and designs that cater to homes across the country. Finding the best color and style for your siding installation won’t be hard; it can be as easy as driving around your neighborhood to draw some inspiration. You can also search online for the latest trends in home exterior designs!
Choose the Right Siding Material
Sometimes, you’ll feel a bit overwhelmed by the countless siding options available. However, you’ll find James Hardie® the best option among the rest as it offers impeccable aesthetic appeal and reliable weather resistance. It only needs occasional cleaning and maintenance to stay in good condition throughout its expected lifespan!
Made from fiber cement, our James Hardie products offer many benefits including durability, reliability, and minimal maintenance. All our products are simply Engineered for Climate®, which means they have incredible resilience against different elements and weather conditions. The material is extremely durable and non-toxic, which means it’s five times thicker than vinyl yet won’t easily rot like wood or erode like stone.
Our James Hardie siding products won’t tire you out in terms of maintenance. They don’t need constant attention (unlike wood, stone, or stucco) since they naturally moisture and won’t need repainting or refinishing. Fiber cement won’t easily chip, peel, or crack as long as you remember to gently rinse it with a garden hose at least annually to stay clean and visually appealing.
Pick the Right Contractor
Finding the right contractor is also crucial when planning a siding replacement. They have the training, certifications, and experience to execute your siding replacement project and ensure its success. They’ll help you figure out a game plan for financing the project and staying within your budget. After all, the project’s scope becomes much clearer once you’ve discussed the details with your contractor and determined how much you’re willing to spend.
Also, be sure to request a detailed quotation during the initial meeting. Remember that the cheapest quotes may not always mean the best as there may be underlying costs, but that doesn’t mean the most expensive ones are any better. Make sure you can read them carefully so you’ll know what’s best for your needs and budget!
Ask the Right Questions
Of course, you can’t just hire any other contractor for the project unless they meet your qualifications. To that effect, you need to look for someone who can guarantee the project’s success. You won’t always find the right contractor on the first round of prospects, so take your time. They also understand that you won’t give them a follow-up call immediately until you’re sure of who to hire for your project.
Here are a few essential qualities you should look for when going through prospective contractors:
- License and Insurance. Most states typically need contractors to have a business license to operate in the area. The requirements may vary, but they should carry at least two types of insurance to run their businesses properly. Choosing to work with an uninsured contractor just because they offer lower rates can be risky as you can be responsible for anything that goes wrong, which means you may end up shouldering the expenses. Liability insurance is necessary as it provides coverage for any damage that resulted from the contractor’s mistakes. Workers’ compensation is also important since it allows for coverage to the workers in case they get sick or injured while working on your siding project.
- Physical Location. Local siding contractors tend to be more efficient in several aspects than national contractors. For instance, respond quicker to storm damage and other emergencies so your home exterior won’t get severely damaged. They also support other local businesses, so you’ll likely get a lower siding estimate because of their proximity within the area.
Prepare Your Home
A complete siding replacement project is considered a major home remodeling project since it requires thorough planning and preparation. You’ll need to prepare your home before the workers arrive on the date of your siding installation so that you won incur accidents and unwanted damage. One of the first things you can do is park your vehicles away from the area so they won’t get affected by the project. This is also necessary because the new siding material will take up substantial space on the driveway and yard.
If you have children or pets, it’s best to let them stay at a neighbor’s or relative’s house before the siding replacement begins. They may easily get distracted by the commotion that’s about to happen during the remodeling process. This puts their safety at risk when they run around the work area. This can also make them feel uncomfortable and intimidated by strangers walking around.
Finally, you should mind your landscape and ensure the trees and shrubs won’t get in the way of the siding project. You might need to cut the grass to make the cleanup process easier after the replacement. Nearby branches must also be trimmed and the shrubs covered with a tarp or drop cloth. This is necessary to make it easier to catch stray debris during construction.
As a locally trusted James Hardie siding installer, Peninsula Siding Company, Inc. always gets the job done professionally and efficiently. Contact us today by calling (650) 287-4208 or filling out our convenient online contact form for a free quote!