Siding Installation is an important home improvement project that can improve the look of your house and increase its value. It is an affordable and easy way to update the exterior of your home. Siding installation costs depend on the material you choose. Typically, vinyl is the easiest and quickest to install. Other materials, such as brick and stone, are more labor-intensive.
Fiber cement is a low-cost, durable option for siding in various colors and textures. It is a popular choice for homeowners seeking modern styles and designs. Fiber cement siding can be made from various materials, including wood pulp and sand. These are combined with a cement slurry to form a solid plank.
It is available in both thin and thick products. Thicker fiber cement products are more durable and tend to last longer. When you’re ready to install your siding, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure to use proper safety equipment, including full-face dust masks and gloves.
Cut your fiber cement boards outdoors, if possible. This will minimize the amount of dust produced and avoid respiratory problems. When you need to cut your boards, use a carbide-tipped scoring knife or a jigsaw fitted with a blade that’s specifically designed for cutting fiber cement. Make sure you cut from the back of the board.
Siding is a popular and affordable way to enhance the appearance of your home. It is available in a wide range of colors and designs, including smooth and wood grain textures. It is also a low-maintenance option that is easy to clean with a garden hose and does not require painting. This type of siding also can help reduce your utility costs by helping to regulate the temperature throughout your home. When installing vinyl siding, following the guidelines for proper installation is important. This includes allowing for movement and expansion with changes in temperature.
Measure and cut siding panels so they end 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) less than the vertical trim pieces. Keep the starter strip and corner posts straight to ensure the rest of the siding is level. When fastening the siding, use a nail that penetrates 1 1/4 inches into the framing behind any foam plastic sheathing. This allows the fastener to penetrate into the sheathing and hold it in place.
Cedar siding is a beautiful, durable material that can be installed over wood framing or over existing exterior walls. It is naturally warm and insulating, which helps keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Cedar is available in a variety of styles, including plank and shingle. It can be stained or painted to make it look more appealing. When compared to other types of siding, cedar requires less maintenance because it doesn’t chip or peel as quickly. However, it is still susceptible to the elements, so it must be cleaned and repainted as needed to keep your home looking its best.
Depending on your climate and landscape, you may need to power-wash or stain your cedar siding on a regular basis. Dusty areas will require washing more frequently, while wet climates can cause mildew to grow, which must be removed with a solution of oxygen bleach. Cedar siding is also available in different finishes, including semi-transparent and solid options. A semi-transparent finish protects the siding but allows its natural color to show through, while solid finish stains the wood to alter its natural shade.
Steel siding is popular among homeowners because of its longevity and durability. It also has a number of benefits, including being fire-resistant and eco-friendly. It’s also resistant to rust and corrosion, so you can expect it to last for years to come. When steel siding is installed, it must be properly insulated to reduce energy costs and keep your home cooler in the winter and warmer in the summer.
After insulating the exterior of your house, you’ll need to install furring strips in the wall where the siding will be installed. These will help flatten out the walls so that the siding is smooth and even. Once you have a rough estimate of how much steel siding your home needs, it’s time to start shopping for contractors that can install it. Modernize can pair you with up to four reputable contractors in your area that can provide you with an accurate quote and the best service.