Siding: Do-It-Right, Don’t Do-It-Yourself!
There comes a time when every home needs a facelift. Paint can only do so much but a complete overhaul might be unnecessary and is certainly costly. The easiest answer is usually siding–a new, attractive look that will be easier to clean and more durable than paint while also adding depth and detail to the look. Finding the right contractor is one of the most important decisions of the project. For a job this big, making sure it’s done right the first time is critical.
There are many types of siding to choose from. The most popular option is vinyl because of the many low-maintenance choices available within a reasonable budget. In time, even vinyl will fade, crack and chip. Although it does have to be re-sealed and re-painted regularly, natural wood siding is eco-friendly and cost effective. Not many people choose aluminum siding because it shows every dent and scuff. There are high end options that are far more durable and fade resistant. Repairs to sidings such as slate and stone can be costly as well, though, so it is important to weigh out the costs and benefits with the needs of the project in mind.
The process itself involves first removing any damaged siding that is already in place. As long as the underlying siding isn’t crumbling, it doesn’t need to be stripped before the new siding is applied. To keep the installation consistent, old damaged siding can be replaced before the new siding is installed on top, providing an even surface without the cost of stripping. Acting as insulation, the old siding continues to be useful even if it’s less attractive than it once was. While anyone with a level can install the horizontal stripes it takes a trained eye and a steady hand to correctly apply the trim pieces. The goal is a home with a fresh new look and nothing will ruin that faster than crooked trim and obvious seams.
Choosing a quality contractor is the first and most important step to success. The best DIY warrior should graciously admit that the risk of one mistake becoming a decade-long regret is too much and a professional is called for. When shopping around, don’t just look at the price tag, look at the contractor’s quality. Rather than taking the companies’ word for it, see if each can provide photos of finished products and let actual results do the talking.
Improving the curb appeal of a house with a tired look can be very rewarding and will increase the value of the home as well. A little creative landscaping, some garden lights and perhaps new mailbox can really help, but to make an old house new again nothing does the job like siding. Choosing a contractor in Chicago who has the products in stock and an experienced team ready to install it is the first step to a home anyone can be proud of.
More About The Author: Joseph Panos is an industry journalist and passionate blogger. He enjoys discussing trends, learning & writing, and taking long walks. You can visit this valuable resource for more info about this article’s subject Hardie board chicago You can find more articles on the author’s site.
