Siding installation is a home enhancement option that can not only enhance the look of a home, but also help make the structure more energy-efficient. In addition, siding installation can minimize maintenance tasks associated with keeping the exterior in good condition. When considering the addition of siding to any home, there are several points that must be kept in mind in order to make the right selections. Here are a few basic tips you should remember if you are planning to install siding of any type.
One of the most important tasks associated with siding installation is choosing the right type of siding for your home. There are several options on the market today, with each of them having their own particular advantages. However, each option also has a drawback or two that should also be considered.
Aluminum siding has been around for decades, is sturdy, and requires nothing more than a quick wash with the garden hose to look great. Unfortunately, this siding can be more expensive and also will quickly look bad if stray baseballs or damage from hail dents the sections. Still, the siding is a popular option and if the sections are not dented will easily look great thirty years after the initial siding installation.
Vinyl siding is also an excellent home remodeling option. While not as durable as aluminum, the vinyl panels of today do hold up very well under most conditions and cost considerably less. The lightweight construction also makes them ideal for the do-it-yourself types that want to handle the siding installation themselves. Should a section of the siding be damaged, it is relatively inexpensive to replace.
Wood and cement siding are also excellent options when it comes to siding installation. Wood siding can be treated to retain its natural beauty while also sealing it from the elements. The cement approach offers the benefit of making it easier to maintain a comfortable temperature in the home regardless of outside weather conditions. However, these two options do tend to be more expensive in terms of both materials and labor costs than either vinyl or aluminum siding.
After settling on a choice for siding, it will save a lot of time if the exterior walls are prepared in advance. This usually means washing down the exterior thoroughly to remove any residue that has accumulated. Doing so will make it easier to apply any type of adhesive that may be used to install tracks or to hold sections in place. A clean surface will also minimize the possibility of mold building up between the siding and the covered exterior.
If handling the siding installation yourself, make sure to read any installation instructions before initiating the task. This is a situation where an attention to detail is very important. For example, using only aluminum nails when installing aluminum siding panels will prevent problems in later years. Taking the time to install the trim before any panels will also save time later. Setting a starter strip serves the same purpose as a starter tile line when laying a new tile floor. It makes it possible to begin with an even and flush line that keeps the sections level as they are installed.
Keep in mind that siding installation is not a one-person task. If you plan on doing the job yourself, have at least one assistant on hand. For big jobs, you may find that hiring a professional crew is a much better choice in terms of both time and cost over the long run.
