Protecting your house or building from rain, sun, and other changes in weather is very important, and siding can do this job effortlessly.
You can search ‘siding installer near me‘ on Google to see the list of companies offering these services near your location. Choose a company such as Alpine Exterior Contractor if you are looking for affordable and efficient siding installation services.
Skipping the Prep Work
Slapping siding over rotten sheathing or uneven walls is like building a house on sand.
Pros always start by:
- Removing old siding completely (no shortcuts!).
- Repairing water-damaged wood.
- Moisture Barrier installation (like house wrap).
- Ensuring walls are flat with furring strips if needed.
- Wrong Nailing Technique.
- Placing nails incorrectly stresses the siding, and this can create a way for water.
- Vinyl: Nail centered in slots—leave room for movement.
- Fiber Cement: Use corrosion-resistant nails, driven flush (not sunk).
- Wood: Stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized nails to prevent rust streaks
- Poorly Sealed Joints and Corners.
- Gaps at seams or corners are open invitations for wind-driven rain and insects.
- Overlap horizontal siding correctly (e.g., clapboard should have a 1-inch overlap)
- Seal vertical joints with color-matched caulk.
- Install corner posts with integrated drip edges to divert water.
Mismatched Materials
Mixing incompatible materials can accelerate wear. For Example, using aluminum nails in combination with cedar siding causes corrosive staining.
Always:
- Pairing of materials must be done wisely.
- Use foam-backed siding in freezing climates as it helps to prevent ice damage.
Neglecting Ventilation
- Siding needs airflow to prevent moisture buildup.
- Install vented soffit panels or leave gaps under eaves.
- Never cover existing vents with siding.
DIY Overconfidence
Siding job looks simple to many people, but it needs great effort.
Common DIY blunders:
- Cutting panels unevenly, creating visible seams.
- Misaligning courses (use a chalk line!).
- Ignoring local building codes (e.g., fire-rated siding near property lines).
- The Hidden Cost of Cheap Contractors.
Hiring the lowest bidder often means
- No warranty coverage
- Crews are rushing through critical steps
- Using leftover materials from other jobs
Always verify licenses, insurance, and reviews. Ask for proof of past projects. Look at their previous work, as this can give you a better idea of their work. Speak with as many siding contractors as possible to know about their quotes and other important details. Take suggestions from your friends, if they have utilized the siding services in the past for their project. When you hire a company with no license, there is no guarantee of their services.
Siding Types
- Vinyl: Vinyl siding can be maintained easily, and it comes in different styles and attractive colors, giving us the opportunity to choose one from them as per our choice. They are cost-effective and can resist moisture very well.
- Wood: Wood siding is known for its classic look. It also adds a natural look to your house.
- Fiber Cement Siding: This siding is known for its high durability and very little maintenance.
Siding should last decades, not years. Take the time to plan, hire wisely, and double-check every small detail.
