Why is siding important?
Siding acts as a shield for the foundation of your home, protecting it from the outdoor elements. It helps preserve the insulation of your home, which is responsible for ridding the walls of insects, dirt and moisture. If insulation is unable to fulfill its purpose, your home is at high risk for moisture buildup, mold and mildew, which could lead to structural damage due to bowing or warping of the walls.
Well-insulated siding can keep the heat inside your home while also keeping the cold weather out. Insulated siding is breathable, meaning it allows water vapor to escape, leading to protection from mold, rot and mildew, and contributing to healthy indoor air conditions. Aside from the many practical functions, the visual appeal of siding adds additional allure to your home.
How do I know when I’m due for a home siding repair?
Is your old siding starting to warp, chalk, bend, or pull away from the house? These external signs mean water or moisture is getting below the siding and damaging it. You may also see green or black spots along the siding, which also signal a moisture issue. An important issue to be aware of are rotting wall sheathing behind the siding. This problem can be identified by feelings for soft spots along, or any places that give in, along the siding.
If the moisture makes its way into the home, you could see interior damage. Peeling paint or loose wallpaper indicates this moisture issue has taken place.
What are my siding options?
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is the most affordable siding option available. Its benefits, along with the affordable cost, have made it the most commonly used siding option in the U.S. Due to this popularity, vinyl siding is one of the best investments you can make for your home. Vinyl siding is virtually maintenance free. It does not chip, 
peel, dent or rot. Most vinyl siding does not even require any sanding, painting or staining. With a fresh wash at least once a year to keep up its beautiful appearance, your vinyl siding is good to go.
Vinyl siding is strong, durable and stands the test of time. It withstands heat, cold, moisture and winds up to 110 miles per hour. Due to its durability, warranties for vinyl siding can range from 20-40 years.
Cedar Siding
Cedar Siding is considered a mid to high price range siding option. Due to the maintenance that is required with cedar siding, up-keep costs should also be considered when budgeting for this siding option.
It’s recommended to wash cedar siding with a low-pressure washer at least every few years. Staining is also required every few years, and it will be visually evident when it’s time to restain. Moisture damage is the highest risk factor for cedar siding. Therefore, precautions and early detection of potential problems should be a priority in order to prevent moisture damage.
James Hardie Siding
James Hardie siding is crafted with fiber-cement material, and designed to last for up to 30 years. Hardie siding is customized based upon the climate in which your house is located. The engineering of the design as well as the coats of paint on the siding ensure protection against the elements specific to your location.
Hardie siding is 5x thicker than vinyl, providing an even greater amount of protection for your home. These are some of the reasons that James Hardie has become one of our best sellers. Hardie recommends certain maintenance practices dependent on the type of siding chosen.
Are certain seasons better than others to have my siding redone?
Not particularly. Siding can be redone anytime, including winter months. It may even be easier to schedule your siding renovation during the winter months, as it’s the off-season for most contractors. One thing to consider about starting your siding project during that time of year is the potential increase in the length of time to complete the project. This is due in part to paint delays and in part to removing smaller sections of siding at a time to limit the exposure of the foundation to the outdoor elements.
Are you ready to get your siding project started? Bloomfield Construction is a top 200 exterior contractor in the U.S., and a Detroit Home Magazine & Remodeling Magazine Master Design Award Winner. Get your quote – we’re happy to help!
