The long-term success of your siding replacement depends on a variety of things. While there are common mistakes homeowners make when re-siding, you can avoid them by vetting a reputable siding contractor to help guide you along the steps to successful siding installation. 

Read on to gain knowledge that will help you bypass siding mistakes others make.

What to Avoid When Re-siding Your Home 

1. Choosing the cheapest siding material to save money

A top mistake homeowners make when replacing their siding is they pick the cheapest material. The problem with choosing siding material based on its price is that what you cover your home with impacts how well it will be protected, as well as how long your siding will last. 

How to avoid this mistake: Understand that top quality siding material shields your home from the elements 24/7 and will save you in the long run. It’s worth the initial investment to select durable siding that will go the distance. Knowing you are covered by a reliable product will give you peace of mind, and you won’t have to replace your siding for decades. 

2. Forgetting to consider your area’s climate while selecting your new siding

Kansas City’s climate calls for weather-resistant siding due to our harsh winter temperatures, spring’s high winds, summer’s heat and humidity, and fall’s rainy weather. 

• Wood siding that isn’t sealed properly (and regularly!) can experience water infiltration that causes it to rot, mold, and deteriorate. 
• Vinyl siding tends to warp, absorb water, and fade faster than other siding materials.  
• Fiber cement siding stands up to the elements with ease. Made of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, its durable makeup is weather, pest and fire resistant, giving homeowners confidence they are safeguarded from the elements. 

How to avoid this mistake: Kansas City’s year-round forecast calls for durable siding material such as fiber cement. Its strong makeup stands up to severe weather with ease.  

3. Deciding on high maintenance siding when you don’t have time for its upkeep

If you live in a historic or older home that is covered in wood siding and you decide to re-side with wood, understand its hefty maintenance needs, or you’re in for moisture infiltration and possibly even the costly hassle of pest infestation. Wood needs to be re-painted or re-sealed every 6-8 years in most climates. If you neglect this needed upkeep, you’ll likely experience expensive repairs and early siding replacement the next time around. 

How to avoid this mistake: If you love the look of wood but don’t want the responsibility of its high maintenance requirements, opt for a siding material that looks like wood but comes with low maintenance. Fiber cement siding is so thick that it mimics the genuine appearance of wood, yet delivers the simple upkeep homeowners love. It’s deep grooves and wood-patterned planks will make your home look as if it’s covered in wood, yet ensure you have plenty of time to do the things you love most. 

4. Not hiring a well-vetted contractor

If you choose the best siding material, a stunning color, and a gorgeous siding style that perfectly complements your home’s architecture, yet you have the siding installed by a contractor who isn’t licensed or insured, you’re likely in for trouble. Or perhaps your contractor has the right credentials, but no track record of premium results or exceptional customer service. Even worse, if you don’t do your research, you could get subpar results that cost you in repair bills (and time, and hassles) over the years. 

How to avoid this mistake: Choosing a siding contractor is a major component in the success of your siding replacement. Take time to research your options. Read online reviews and talk with friends and neighbors. Get at least three estimates, and choose the contractor who will best meet your needs. 

Move Forward on Your Siding Replacement with Confidence

There’s no need to feel overwhelmed at the siding replacement process. And you don’t have to “go it alone” in deciding what will work best for your home and budget. At StateLine Exteriors, our siding services bring your home exterior dreams to life and deliver smart solutions you’ll be thrilled with for years to come.