Your siding plays an important role in protecting your home. This is why it’s crucial to have it installed properly. We discuss five common mistakes to avoid when having new siding installed in this post.
To get a beautiful, long-lasting end result to your installation, avoid the following mistakes:
Letting Price Be the Only Deciding Factor
We get you. Price has always been a big concern, and usually even gets to be the main factor. But remember, your home siding is exposed to outside elements and weather. Often you can save money in the long run if you choose high-quality products, which may not need to be replaced again in your lifetime.
Here’s a tip: Make sure you go with a product from a trusted brand that offers a long-term warranty.
Not Doing Enough Research
Don’t get in a hurry when you’re faced with a costly project like siding installation. Research all the available options in your area, and ask for expert advice. Ask for recommendations from both professionals and other homeowners in your neighborhood. When you have all the information gathered, you can more easily compare the benefits of each type and see how well they align with your needs and budget.
Choosing the Wrong Material
There’s a good reason why certain home styles and sidings are prevalent in different areas of the country. Stucco siding works great in the arid, warm Southwest, while composite or vinyl siding is popular in the Northeast.
It is a mistake to choose your siding based on aesthetic preferences if it means overlooking weather, moisture, and insulation needs in your local climate. Go with material that fits both aesthetic design and functionality.
Overlooking gutters and downspouts
Gutters and downspouts properly redirect rainwater runoff, so they are critical in ensuring your home stays safe from moisture damage. A functional gutter and downspout system protects your siding from backsplash and eventual paint damage and wood rot. A good siding contractor will notify you of any areas in which your guttering system isn’t functioning properly, threatening your new siding.
In addition, guttering and eaves are often where inexperienced siding installers make mistakes, leaving your home vulnerable to water intrusion. When your contractor finishes, be sure you thoroughly inspect to ensure there are no gaps in the seams or other visual anomalies in these areas where large volumes of water flow over your home.
Hiring a Subpar Contractor
Believe it or not, this is the most common mistake homeowners make when it’s time to replace exterior siding. The allure of shaving a few dollars off the budget is often too much to resist, and many homeowners have horror stories of dealing with unprofessional, incompetent installers who cause problems rather than solving them.
When you’re researching contractors, be sure to check the following items off your list:
- Are they licensed and bonded?
- Are they willing to provide references?
- Can you inspect previous examples of their work?
- Do they answer your questions openly and honestly?
- Are they willing to provide a detailed quote?
Need Expert Advice?
If you’re confused about how best to protect your home’s exterior, we’re here to help! Whether you’re undecided on material, or need help budgeting, our expert installers are happy to discuss your project and answer any questions you may have. Regardless of whether you choose us to install your siding, we want to help you ensure your home is not only beautiful but well protected from the elements.
We will thoroughly and accurately assess your specific needs, provide you with expert recommendations, and deliver a quality product that you will be proud of.
Call us at (650) 287-4208 or fill out our quick form to ask questions or arrange a quote today!