Do the neighbors slow down to stare? Do the kids on your street run really fast past your house because they think it’s haunted?
It may be time to replace your siding!
If replacing your siding is the job you’ve been putting off because you’re not sure what to expect, it’s time to put away your worries.
Replacing your siding is not as complicated or expensive as you might think. Learn more in our step-by-step guide about what to expect during siding replacement.
Table of Contents
- What To Expect During Siding Replacement: 9 Steps From Start To Finish
- Siding Replacement Timeline
- Elite Home Exteriors: Your Choice for Siding Replacement or Installation in Oregon and Washington
What To Expect During Siding Replacement: 9 Steps From Start To Finish
At Elite Home Exteriors NW, servicing Oregon and Washington, we keep our process simple. Most siding replacement companies will follow a similar process, so even if you’re not located in our area, this guide will help you understand exactly what to expect during siding replacement.
Step 1: Contact the Siding Installation Company
The first step to replacing your siding is to find a reputable company. A referral from a friend, neighbor, or family member is an excellent option, as it allows you to see the company’s work firsthand.
However, that may not be an option for everyone, so the next step would be a Google search. Typing “siding installation near me” into the search bar is a great way to find local companies. The top three recommended companies will appear on the right side of the results page from there you’ll be able to read customer reviews.
Some things to consider when you’re searching for a siding replacement company are:
- How long they’ve been in business
- How many positive reviews they have
- If they have insurance; and
- Whether they’re James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractors
Once you’ve two or three trustworthy companies, it’s time to move on to step two.
Step 2: Schedule a Consultation
By phone or online, you’ll schedule an in-person consultation where you’ll have the opportunity to discuss options and expectations.
The contractor will also take measurements, conduct an inspection of your current siding, and even make some recommendations.
Normally, the contractor will bring samples so you can see the varying levels of siding and gain an understanding of what to expect from each product.
If a company is offering to quote the job without consultation, this could be a red flag. Having the contractor come to your home is a necessary step to avoid any surprises, such as cost increases or after-the-fact realizations.
Step 3: Receive a Quote
The contractor will head back to the office to crunch some numbers, taking all of your requests and expectations into consideration.
Usually, within 24 business hours of your consultation, the contractor will get back to you with a quote.
If you accept the quote offered by the company, you’ll move on to the next step.
Step 4: Sign a Contract and Pay a Deposit
The siding installation company will draw up a contract that includes an initial deposit that must be paid in advance.
Paying a deposit shows your intent to complete the job and your acceptance of the contract terms. The contractor will let you know in advance what kind of deposit is required. Usually, it’s a percentage of the completed job.
This is your opportunity to let the contractor know if you’ve changed your mind about any of the materials, colors, or selections you’ve made. Change orders can be costly to homeowners when made later in the process.
Step 5: Homeowner Site Preparation
Your siding contractor should give you an idea of what to prepare before installation.
This may include:
- Trimming trees and shrubbery around your home
- Cutting the grass
- Clearing away outdoor items such as pots, furniture, lawn equipment, etc.
- Removing any interior wall hangings or shelf items that may fall due to vibration
- Clearing out your driveway to allow for better access
- Moving vehicles to prevent damage
- Clearing a power outlet for the crew to use
- Keep children and pets away from the work site
Anything else your contractor thinks may be helpful will be discussed in advance.
Step 6: Equipment and Materials Delivered
Prior to installation, materials, a dumpster bin, and a portable restroom will be delivered to your home. If you have a driveway, this is the best location for the dumpster. If not, permits may be required to place the dumpster on the street.
Step 7: Old Siding Removal and Prep Work
During the first workday, your old siding will be removed. This will cause a bit of a mess, but don’t worry, your contractor already has a plan for removal all lined up.
Before your new siding is installed, the contractor must assess your exterior walls and make any necessary repairs. This must be done to ensure that the new siding is installed correctly and that it looks good and remains stable.
During the inspection, the contractor may also come across wood rot, asbestos, or unseen damage. If you have asbestos, it will need to be professionally removed immediately, as it is highly toxic. This can add to the cost of the project.
The contractor will also inspect the sheathing for deterioration. If the sheathing needs replacing, this can add a little bit of time and money to the project as well.
If you’re uncertain about any of the suggestions made by your contractor, never hesitate to ask questions. You can even ask for a comparison of sheathing that’s in good condition. Having 100% confidence in your contractor is important
Step 8: Siding Installation
This is the fun part! Your new siding will be installed once all of the preparation is complete. You’ll get your first look at your color palette as it will appear on your home and can begin to imagine how amazing it will look when complete.
Choosing a high-quality siding material, such as James Hardie siding, will give you a lasting look that you can be proud of for many years to come.
Elite Home Exteriors NW, servicing Oregon and Washington, is a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor — the highest rating that can be received.
We recommend James Hardie siding to all of our customers because not only is it built to last, but it requires little to no maintenance.
If you’re interested in learning more about James Hardie siding, or any of the other siding options we offer, contact us today.
Step 9: Clean-Up, Equipment Removal, and Final Payment
When the job is finalized, the crew will clean up any leftover mess and remove the dumpster and any equipment left behind. You’ll also finalize payment at this time.
What’s left to do? Nothing, other than enjoying your home’s new look. Heck, you might even want to linger around your yard and collect compliments from all your neighbors!
Siding Replacement Timeline
In most cases, a full siding replacement will take between two to three weeks. However, some issues may arise that can delay the project, such as:
- Holidays
- Weather
- Change orders
- Unexpected repairs, such as:
- Wood rot
- Sheathing repair
- Asbestos
If anything changes that could cause a delay to the original timeline, your contractor should discuss new expectations with you right away.
Elite Home Exteriors: Your Choice for Siding Replacement and Installation in Oregon and Washington
Elite Home Exteriors NW is a family-owned business and we like to treat our customers like part of the family.
Building relationships with our clients means having honest and transparent communication from the start. From the first consultation, through to the end of the project, you’ll always know what to expect during siding replacement.
We make sure our customers are informed and confident in the service we are offering. We go above and beyond for our customers every single time.
Contact us today for your free consultation. We look forward to working with you!