Siding Replacement 101: Tips for a Successful Home Exterior Makeover
When someone comes to your house, the first thing they see is the outside of it – make it a great first impression by replacing your siding. Along with improving curb appeal, siding impacts your home’s energy efficiency and protects it from the weather. Before you get to the installation itself, take these steps to prepare and make replacing your siding as efficient a project as possible.
MAKE A PLAN
As you browse siding material options, consider the aesthetics, functionality, and maintenance that each requires. How much time do you have to dedicate to siding maintenance, and do you want to? Options like vinyl and engineered wood siding are long-lasting, low-maintenance, and available in a wide range of colors, allowing you to have your preferred look.
Another part of your planning should be creating a comprehensive budget for your project. Give yourself a realistic timeline to get all aspects of this project done, from the first step of clearing the area around your home to the actual installation of the new siding.
PREP YOUR HOME
Make sure the area around your home is entirely clear for the replacement of your siding. Trim tree branches and shrubs, remove objects like trash cans, storage containers, furniture, potted plants, and whatever else may be lining your house. Anything that can’t be moved, like landscaping, should be covered with a drop cloth to help protect it from debris.
Prepare the inside of your home, too – replacing siding can rattle walls a bit, so make sure any items on shelves along exterior walls are secured. Now, you can replace your siding with a clean slate and without worries of damaging both your indoor and outdoor items.
GET AN INSPECTION
It’s critical to make sure your home is in good shape and ready for the new siding. Have your home inspected for mold damage, water damage, and structural damage, as well as checking that your insulation is in good condition. This can save you money down the line in costly repairs and ensures you’ll get the best lifespan you can out of your new siding.
GET QUOTES OR GATHER MATERIALS
If you’re replacing your siding yourself, now is the time to gather the materials and tools you need to get the job done. If you aren’t doing this project yourself, ask around for contractor recommendations, do your research, and read reviews before getting quotes.
All of this preparation sets you up for a successful home exterior makeover, but you don’t have to just stop at siding.
CONSIDER ADDITIONAL EXTERIOR PROJECTS
Now that you’ve successfully replaced your siding, the exterior of your home looks better, guaranteed. Consider the other exterior home upgrades you could make to get the most out of your renovation. New siding will look even better after upgrading trim, replacing your gutters, revamping your deck, and getting to work on a landscaping project. Making multiple exterior improvements allows you to fully improve your home’s curb appeal.
GET WHAT YOU NEED AT MILLER’S BUILDING SUPPLY
At Miller’s Building Supply, we have what you need from the preparation stage all the way to the cleanup. Whether you’re a homeowner doing it yourself or working with a contractor, our knowledgeable staff can help guide you in selecting the perfect siding to suit your style and budget. View our siding selection in person at 1819 E Monroe St. in Goshen or view our selection online.