Siding

When it’s time to upgrade your home’s exterior, there are lots of decisions to make. Once you have decided on the right siding material and color to get the look you want, you still have another important choice to make when it comes to the orientation of your siding.

When is horizontal siding the right choice, and in which circumstances is vertical siding the better option? Here is a look at what to consider.

Aesthetics

Aesthetics will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in the choice between horizontal and vertical siding. Horizontal siding is the more traditional choice, and it can help your home blend in if you live on a street lined with Colonial-style homes.

However, for those who want a slightly more unconventional look, vertical siding is a great and subtle way to set your home apart. In addition, vertical panels can elongate a home, making it appear taller and more regal.

Cost

Although you might expect both types of siding to bear a similar cost as the amount of siding needed to cover the home will be roughly the same, vertical siding actually costs slightly more than horizontal siding in many cases.

This is down to the specialist nature of installing siding with a vertical orientation. If budget is a concern, the best course of action is to consult a local siding contractor and request estimates for both types of siding to make a comparison.

Keep in mind, however, that the cost will also depend on the types of siding materials used, their weight, and the skill needed to install them. For example, horizontal steel siding can cost more than vertical vinyl, given the weight of the material.

Maintenance

All types of siding will require proper maintenance to prolong their lifespan, but this depends largely on the materials used rather than the orientation of the siding. For example, vinyl siding is virtually maintenance-free and very easy to maintain, while wood requires regular care to keep it functioning properly and looking pristine.

However, the orientation of the siding will come into play when it comes to cleaning. Vertical siding panels are easy to clean with household cleaners and a power washer, and there is little danger of leakage.

This is particularly true for the board and batten-style vertical siding, as the filler strips will cover seams in the siding. Horizontal siding panels, in contrast, pose a greater chance of water leakage during cleaning, which makes cleaning them a bit more complicated.

Durability

The durability of siding will be influenced by its material and craftsmanship, with metal and fiber cement being among the longest-lasting types of siding available.

One concern with horizontal siding, however, when it comes to durability is the high risk of rainwater leaking beneath the strips of wooden siding panels. This could cause them to warp over time and spur the growth of mildew and mold. This is far less likely with vertical siding, as water that hits the panels’ surface will simply drop to the ground.

Installation

As the most common orientation of siding in residential homes, horizontal siding has a very straightforward installation process that most siding professionals will be very familiar with. This means they should have no trouble installing the siding on time and without running into any unexpected problems.

With vertical siding, however, homeowners need to seek siding installers who are familiar with the process and have experience carrying out the additional steps involved. For example, a layer of furring strips has to be laid horizontally prior to installing vertical panels to smooth and level the surface for a finished look once the siding is in place.

Resale Value

Siding that is in good shape and visually appealing will always help improve a home’s curb appeal, but potential buyers may have a preference when they are shopping for a new home. Although vertical siding has a striking presence, not all homebuyers are comfortable choosing something that is unconventional.

However, this also depends on the style of the home. Traditional and historic homes have more widespread appeal with horizontal siding, while rustic homes can look very attractive with vertical siding. For smaller homes, such as Cape Cod-style homes, vertical siding can add some much-needed height.

Can Horizontal and Vertical Siding Be Mixed?

If you are struggling to choose between horizontal and vertical siding, consider mixing and matching so you can enjoy the benefits of both styles. Some people place horizontal siding on the main area of the home and use vertical accents on gables.

For homes with complex architectural styles, such as Victorian houses, a mix-and-match design can be very effective.

Discuss Your Project With the Siding Professionals

If you are ready to update your home’s appearance with new siding, get in touch with the professional siding contractors at Adelphia Exteriors to discuss your project and request a free estimate.

Siding is one of the most dramatic ways to upgrade a home, providing it with an instant boost in curb appeal and greater protection from the elements. Once you have decided that you are ready to enjoy the benefits of new siding, you may be wondering if a particular time of year is ideal for these projects.

The answer to this question depends largely on the type of siding you wish to install. While spring and fall are generally the busiest seasons for siding contractors, certain types of siding can be installed year-round.

Vinyl Siding

By far the most popular type of siding, vinyl siding is prized for its long-lasting qualities, affordability, ease of maintenance, and broad range of customization options. Having it installed in the winter is possible, although it is necessary to choose an installer with experience in accommodating the normal contraction and expansion of this material that occurs in this weather.

Winter installation rates tend to be cheaper, and there tends to be less intrusion on daily life while the work is being carried out as families do not spend much time in the yard during winter.

However, late fall represents a good compromise between price and weather. Homeowners often find better deals with contractors at this time of year as their summer and fall projects start to diminish, and they can avoid the problems that are sometimes encountered in winter with vinyl potentially becoming too brittle and prone to cracking upon nailing.

Cedar Siding

Cedar is a popular type of wood siding selected for its beauty and durability. However, it is also one of the more expensive types of siding to install. Homeowners with a limited budget may find that this type of siding is within their financial reach if they have it installed in winter when labor costs are lower. Cedar boasts excellent insulation capabilities, so winter is a good time to enjoy one of its strongest selling points.

However, like vinyl, it expands and contracts, so choosing an experienced contractor who can account for the appropriate measuring and spacing is paramount. This can ensure it will last as long as possible so homeowners get the best return on their investment.

Wood Siding

There are several other popular types of wood siding beyond cedar, such as pine, spruce, fir, cypress and redwood. These can be installed year-round as wood is not vulnerable to brittleness issues seen with vinyl siding. The only real drawback to having wood siding installed in winter is the possibility of winter storms delaying the project due to poor working conditions or delays in the delivery of material.

Summer is another good option. Although summer storms could also delay a project, installers sometimes offer better rates in the summer than they do in spring or fall, although it is not as cheap as it is in winter. Siding installers are experienced in working in the shady part of the home and moving with the sun to keep exposure to a minimum.

Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement might boast a long lifespan and excellent durability, but for many people, the biggest draw is the broad variety of shapes, sizes and colors on offer. It does not expand and contract during extreme temperatures, so this material is technically suited to year-round installation and can be installed in winter without any issues.

Contractors who are looking for more work in the slow winter months often offer reductions on installation costs. One important consideration is painting. If the fiber cement will be painted, it must be done before it is installed as colder temperatures may prevent painting it once it is on the house.

In addition, fiber cement must be kept completely dry prior to being installed. This means that it cannot be installed in rainy seasons.

Seasons To Avoid

Spring and fall tend to be the busiest seasons for siding contractors. This is an ideal time for installing siding from a weather standpoint, but it is not the best choice for those who are looking for a quick turnaround or homeowners who are trying to save money. If you do wish to have siding installed at these times of the year, you will need to schedule it far in advance.

This can be avoided by scheduling siding installation for the summer. In addition to having a better chance of scheduling the work for a time that suits your schedule, the contractor is likely to have more workers available, which means the project could be completed quicker.

Discuss Your Siding Project With The Northern Virginia Siding Professionals

If you wish to give your home’s appearance an upgrade and improve its energy efficiency, reach out to the experienced siding contractors at Adelphia Exteriors today to find out more about our residential siding installation and replacement services.

Vinyl is a top siding choice among homeowners thanks to its affordability, versatility and ease of maintenance. However, despite being weather-resistant, it is occasionally prone to warping. Learn more about what causes vinyl siding to warp and how it can be prevented for maximum curb appeal.

Faulty Installation

Improperly installed vinyl siding is prone to warping. When installers nail the siding to down too tightly, it can lead to bulging that gets worse with fluctuating temperatures. Inexperienced siders may nail siding tightly in the hopes that it remains intact longer, but this can have the opposite effect. Vinyl siding should always be installed with its propensity to expand and contract with the climate in mind.

Vinyl siding is designed to be fastened fairly loosely so it has room to move and adjust as the weather conditions change. One way of checking whether it has been nailed too tightly is by trying to move it slightly; it should be able to shift around ¼ to ½ of an inch from side to side.

The placement of the nails themselves can also contribute to warping. The nails should be placed in the middle of the oval-shaped openings at the top of the panels designed for nailing, taking care to ensure they are not too close to either of the ends to allow room for expansion and contraction.

On a similar note, shutters should never be nailed directly through the siding and into the wood located beneath it as this can pin the siding down, making it more vulnerable to warping and distortion.

Heat

Excessive heat is one of the top causes of warped vinyl. After all, vinyl is plastic, and it can start to melt when the outside temperatures get too high. Darker vinyl or vinyl that has been painted with darker colors is more prone to warping as it absorbs more heat than lighter colors.

If high temperatures are a concern, homeowners can avoid this problem by choosing a lighter color that reflects light and heat. Painting vinyl a shade that is darker than its existing color should be avoided as the siding may not be able to accommodate the extra heat it will absorb. In areas that experience extreme temperature swings, it may be worth exploring whether a different material will hold up better.

Homeowners should also avoid placing gas grills close to their home as the heat can cause the siding nearby to warp or melt. Keep grills at least three feet away from the home to avoid this.

Poor Alignment

Another potential issue related to installation is poor panel alignment. If the ends of the panels are placed too close to the trim around the windows or at the corners of the home, there will not be enough room for the vinyl to move as it expands and contracts. This can lead to unsightly warping and waving.

Pests

Although it is not the most common cause of warping in vinyl siding, it is worth exploring whether pests could be to blame if other potential causes have been ruled out. Termites and other types of pests can cause significant damage to a home. Once they start eating away at the structure of the house, the siding can warp, which creates a wider gap through which additional pests and small rodents can make their way inside.

Reflections From Low-E Glass Windows

One surprising cause of warping vinyl siding is the presence of windows with Low-E glass nearby, whether it is on the home experiencing the warped vinyl or a neighbor’s home. Low-E glass is an energy-efficient material that can diffuse UV rays so they do not enter the house. However, this causes them to reflect back off the glass, and this may cause the vinyl siding it reflects on to warp.

This can be easily prevented by installing an external screen on the window that is reflecting light back onto the home. Planting a tree or shrub can also help to block some of the reflecting light.

Low-Quality Siding

Vinyl is an affordable material in general, but homeowners need to make sure they are choosing a better-quality vinyl that is reasonably thick and durable. Cheaper vinyl panels can be quite thin and may already be slightly wavy even before they are installed; this will only get worse after they have been nailed down and exposed to the elements.

Changes In The Home’s Foundation

Although it is uncommon, changes in the foundation of a home can cause vinyl siding to warp as the home settles and shifts over time. It may be worth inspecting the home’s foundations if some of the more common causes of warped vinyl siding have been ruled out.

Discuss Your Project With The Northern Virginia Exterior Remodeling Contractors

Ensure your siding has maximum durability and curb appeal with help from the experts at Adelphia Exteriors. Contact us today to learn more about our Northern Virginia residential siding services.

New siding is a great way to make functional and aesthetic improvements to a home. In addition to protecting the home from the elements, it is a great way to provide it with the appearance the homeowner seeks.

There are plenty of great siding options available, but one of the most important considerations when choosing materials is climate. Northern Virginia enjoys a temperate climate with very few days of extreme temperatures. However, the area is prone to rainfall and occasional harsh elements such as high winds, thunderstorms and hail.

Siding is one of the first lines of defense that a home has against weather conditions, so choosing the right material for the local conditions is the best way to preserve the home’s value. Here is a look at the best materials for siding Northern Virginia homes.

Vinyl

For homeowners who are looking for a siding material that is available in a rainbow of shades and a variety of textures and styles, vinyl is the ideal choice. Low-maintenance and affordable, this is the chosen siding material of around two-thirds of Northern Virginia homes. It is well suited to the area’s wet and humid conditions thanks to its ability to resist water absorption, flaking and rotting. In addition, it stands up well against the heat and wind.

Aluminum

Aluminum may cost a bit more than vinyl siding, but it is popular thanks to its stylish appearance and durability. Like vinyl, it is available in an array of styles and colors so that homeowners can get the exact look they desire. Although aluminum can rust, it will last for many years with proper maintenance and is very easy to clean.

However, one potential issue for homeowners to be aware of is the potential of aluminum siding to dent. Regular inspections can ensure that dents do not compromise the siding’s overall performance.

Fiber Cement

For homeowners who would like the look of wood without the hefty price tag and potential downfalls, fiber cement is a great choice. This siding material has been growing in popularity thanks to its ability to look exactly like natural wood.

Made using a combination of wood fibers, cement and sand, it is better at resisting fire and insects than real wood and is not vulnerable to wood rot. It is particularly suitable for homes near the ocean, thanks to its ability to stand up well in salty and moist air. Although it is slightly more expensive than vinyl, it is a very cost-effective option overall.

Fiberglass

Another siding material that can give homeowners the look of wood without some of its drawbacks is fiberglass. One of its biggest advantages is its lightweight nature, which makes it easy for the structure of the home to maintain the siding. In addition, it is low maintenance and does not require regular caulking and painting to maintain its appearance.

It is also a very versatile option that is available in a range of colors. Many types of fiberglass siding have an acrylic finish that lasts longer than the paint found on other types of siding. In addition, one of its main components is sand, a sustainable material, making this an environmentally friendly option.

Wood

For homeowners with a bigger budget and a greater inclination toward carrying out proper maintenance, it is hard to resist the old-world charm of authentic wood siding. It is particularly suited to older homes that are looking to retain their classic appearance. However, it looks good on traditional and modern homes alike.

Wood siding can be painted or stained to achieve the homeowner’s desired look, although this will require retouching every few years.

Stucco

Stucco siding is available in a broad range of textures and materials. While traditional stucco is made of lime, cement and sand, there is also a synthetic version available. Stucco is revered for its extreme durability; it can last for as long as 100 years with very little maintenance. In addition, stucco is easy to repair when it is damaged as the spot can be fixed instead of replacing the entire facade.

The main drawback of stucco is the possibility of it cracking if the home’s foundation shifts, allowing moisture to make its way behind the material.

With such a broad range of choices available, homeowners should not have much trouble finding a siding material that is suitable to the Northern Virginia climate while providing their home with the look they desire.

Get In Touch With The Northern Virginia Siding Professionals

Whether you are looking to update the siding on an aging home or customize the appearance of a new house, get in touch with the Northern Virginia siding professionals at Adelphia Exteriors. Our team can help you determine the best siding option for your needs and install it at a reasonable price.

Few home improvement projects have the power to dramatically transform the appearance of a house the way that new siding can. Although a siding replacement project can be a significant investment, it pays off for homeowners in terms of greater energy savings and increased curb appeal.

Although no two siding jobs are exactly the same, most projects will have several crucial elements in common. Here is a closer look at what the siding replacement process entails:

Preparation

A little bit of preparation can go a long way toward speeding up siding work and keeping the property safe while construction is being carried out.

First, it is a good idea to move anything that could block access to exterior walls, such as patio furniture or firewood. This means the crew will be able to start working right away when they arrive.

Any delicate shrubbery should be wrapped in a landscaping canvas to prevent damage while cutting the grass shorter can make it easier for the crew to find nails and other debris that they drop while working. The siding crew will need access to power outlets for tools, so make sure a clear outlet is available for them.

You also need to prepare the inside of your home for the project. Keep in mind that siding removal and installation may cause the walls to shake, so it is advisable to remove items hanging on walls or leaning against them, as well as delicate items on shelves that could fall.

Be aware that construction can be loud, so it may be worth making alternate arrangements for those who work from home or have pets that are sensitive to loud noises.

Prior To Construction

Before the project begins, a dumpster and the new siding will be delivered to the home. These items may arrive a couple of days before the crew begins. A permit may be required for the dumpster, so be sure to find out if the contractor will be handling this aspect.

It is also useful to discuss the placement of the dumpster beforehand to avoid blocking access to the garage or parking spaces. Keep in mind that the crew will prefer to have the dumpster as close to the house as possible without posing an inconvenience.

If there are concerns about damaging the driveway due to the weight of the dumpster, wood can be placed under its pressure points for protection.

Siding Removal Work

Once the crew has arrived, they will take a look at the property and determine the best place to set up their workstations. Then, work will get underway to remove the home’s existing siding. The crew may stick to one side of the house at a time to avoid leaving too many walls exposed to the weather at once. Larger crews, however, might remove all of the siding at once and then focus on installing the new siding.

A good crew will tidy up as they go along and carry out a bigger cleaning at the end of each day. Despite their best efforts to control debris, siding replacement projects tend to be messy, so it is best to proceed as though there could be nails or other hazards on the ground and wear appropriate shoes when walking in the yard during construction.

If the crew needs to leave scaffolding in place overnight, keep an eye on children and others in the house or neighborhood to prevent accidents.

Unexpected Issues

Once the old siding has been removed, contractors may spot unexpected issues that were not apparent when the siding was in place. If they run into any type of problem, they will communicate it to the homeowner and work together to find a good solution.

New Siding Installation

Once the siding has been removed from the home and any necessary repairs have been made, the home’s weather-resistant barrier may also be replaced. If the home does not currently have such a barrier, one may be installed prior to installing the new siding. These barriers provide the home with water resistance and breathability.

The amount of time a siding installation project takes varies depending on the type of siding and the size of the home. However, a typical tear-off and siding installation job can take one to two weeks.

Siding that needs to be painted can prolong the project, as can unexpected repairs. The weather may also be a factor, and there could be some downtime outside of the contractor’s control while waiting for inspections.

Get In Touch With The Siding Professionals At Adelphia Exteriors

Whether you want to improve your home’s appearance or replace aging siding, the Northern Virginia siding installation and replacement contractors at Adelphia Exteriors have the right experience and equipment to carry out the work efficiently and professionally. Get in touch today for a free siding evaluation.

Few home improvement projects have the power to transform the look of a home as dramatically as new siding. However, installing siding can be a costly endeavor depending on the size of the house and the materials used.

According to HomeGuide, the average cost of installing or replacing house siding is $3 to $11 per square foot, and installing siding on a typical 2,000-square foot home may cost anywhere from $4,300 to $15,800.

Here is a rundown of the average cost of installing the most popular types of siding in Virginia:

Vinyl Siding

First introduced in the 1960s, vinyl siding has quickly cemented its place as the top choice for homeowners in Virginia and throughout the country on account of its easy maintenance, durability and versatility. It also provides excellent value because it is both affordable and long-lasting.

The average cost of vinyl siding in Virginia is $4 to $12 per square foot installed. This amounts to between $5,000 and $16,000 to side a 2000-square-foot house. At the upper end of the range is vinyl which is higher in quality and can resist fading.

The prices also depend on the thickness of the panels, with thicker panels providing more durability but coming at a greater cost. One advantage of vinyl siding is the fact that it is manufactured with color throughout the panel, which means any scratches to the siding will not be apparent.

Cement Fiber Siding

Cement fiber siding is a very versatile material that can be made to resemble stone, brick or wood. The typical cost of installing cement-fiber siding in Virginia is $5 to $13 per square foot. Although it is heavier and harder to maintain than vinyl siding, it offers excellent curb appeal and is often the material of choice in upscale neighborhoods.

Cedar Shake Siding

For the beauty of wood and natural resistance to pests and mold, cedar shake is a very desirable siding material. Cedar shakes can be found in several natural colors depending on the type of cedar tree they are sourced from, giving homeowners a range of shades from which to choose. It is also an environmentally friendly option because it is a renewable resource.

The cost of cedar shake siding is between $4 and $8 per square foot installed. This means that the overall cost for a typical 2000-square-foot house will be in the range of $5,700 to $11,500.

Aluminum Siding

One of the more affordable siding materials, next to vinyl, is aluminum. Available in both flat and corrugated sheets, new aluminum siding can be installed over existing siding, which allows homeowners to save some money. It requires little maintenance, does not corrode or rust, and is fireproof. Moreover, homeowners can paint it, making it easy to get the exact shade they seek.

The average cost of aluminum siding is $5 to $9 per square foot installed. The cost of siding a 2000-square-foot home with aluminum siding is between $4,000 and $16,000 in total, depending on the type of aluminum siding used.

Metal And Steel Siding

Strong and durable, metal siding materials are increasingly popular for homeowners who are looking for maintenance-free and attractive siding. It does not crack, peel, or blister and can resist dents and scratches thanks to its significant strength. It also keeps its color longer than aluminum siding.

Homeowners can expect to pay between $3.50 and $9.50 per square foot of metal siding installed, on average, in Virginia. This means that siding a 2000-square-foot home with metal will cost between $10,000 and $15,000. The specific price will depend on the thickness of the metal as well as its design and insulation.

Wood Siding

Beautiful and timeless, wood siding provides homes with a classic look and can last for a very long time with proper maintenance. It is recommended that wood siding is painted every five years and stained every three to five years, while a clear sealer needs to be applied every two years to protect it from moisture damage, cracking and peeling. It is considered an eco-friendly choice because most wood siding is harvested from sustainable forests.

The average cost of wood siding installation in Virginia is $4 to $13 per square foot, which amounts to between $3,000 and $8,000 on a 2000-square-foot house. There are many different types of wood that are used for siding, and the specific cost will depend on the species.

Engineered Wood Siding

Composite and engineered wood siding is more affordable than real wood and gives homes a very similar look. Made using a combination of real wood scraps and resins, it is an eco-friendly choice that is more resistant to mildew, insects and mold than real wood. It can also handle extreme temperatures without cracking or melting.

The average cost of replacing engineered wood siding on a 2000-square-foot home is between $4,750 and $9,450.

Get In Touch With The Siding Installation and Replacement Team

To learn more about how to update your home and boost its energy efficiency with siding, get in touch with the Virginia residential siding professionals at Adelphia Exteriors today.

There is no denying the importance of having good curb appeal, whether a homeowner is looking to sell or they simply want to make a good impression on visitors and the neighborhood. Siding plays an important role in maximizing the value of a home.

Aesthetics may be the key consideration in choosing siding, but it is essential to keep in mind its practical function in protecting the home against the elements. Choosing siding is not just about opting for the most attractive choice; it is also important to ensure the material is suitable for Northern Virginia weather conditions.

Overall, Northern Virginia weather is considered agreeable, with very few temperature extremes and uncomfortable days. However, the area’s year-round rainfall and vulnerability to high winds, thunderstorms, coastal salt and hail can all impact a home’s siding. One of the biggest problems, however, is the broad temperature range, with January often seeing temperatures below freezing and the mercury rising above 100 degrees during summer. Choosing the wrong siding for these conditions or failing to properly maintain siding can quickly ruin the appearance of a home and reduce its value.

Learn more about the top three siding materials for homes in Northern Virginia.

Vinyl

Vinyl is the top siding choice of Northern Virginia residents, with nearly two thirds of new homes in the area choosing vinyl siding. One of the biggest benefits of vinyl siding is the wide array of colors and styles offered, which means that homeowners can get the precise aesthetic they wish for their home with relative ease. Moreover, vinyl is water-resistant and sturdy enough to handle average heat and wind. However, residents of the Blue Ridge area may want to opt for heavier vinyl siding as standard vinyl does not stand up well to high winds.

Fiber Cement

Fiber cement’s extreme durability makes it the top choice for homeowners who are focused on protection. It stands up incredibly well to high winds, and although there is a potential for mildew to build up in fiber cement siding, an occasional power washing can keep this problem at bay. Although it is more expensive than vinyl siding, homeowners praise it for its low-maintenance nature. Fiber cement siding that has been looked after properly can last for as long as 50 years.

Another reason behind fiber cement siding’s popularity is its versatility. It is available in many different colors and textures, allowing homeowners to get a custom look.

Wood Siding

Wood and cedar siding are chosen by many Northern Virginia homeowners on account of their rustic appeal and high quality, but it is important to keep in mind that this type of siding does require greater maintenance than other materials. For example, Northern Virginia’s wet climate puts it at risk of rot and mildew, while there is also the potential for the wood to crack while expanding and contracting in the humidity.

Another consideration for those living in coastal Northern Virginia is the potential for wood siding to be damaged by salty air. Homeowners who have the budget for wood siding and like the aesthetic should keep in mind that regular cleaning and sealing will be needed to keep it in optimum condition.

When To Replace Siding

Outlined below are the top signs it is time to replace the siding on a Northern Virginia home.

Cracks & Gaps

Gaps and cracks are not just an aesthetic concern; they could mean that the home’s structural integrity is at risk as moisture could make its way inside – along with insects and other critters. Siding with this type of damage needs to be replaced as soon as possible.

Too Much Maintenance

When homeowners find that they do not have the energy, money or time to maintain the siding on their home, it could be a good moment to upgrade to a lower-maintenance option, such as vinyl. This also allows homeowners to transform the aesthetics of the home dramatically.

Moisture & Mold

When homeowners notice signs of moisture buildup indoors, such as mildew or mold, it is a good idea to examine the same area on the exterior of the home to see if damaged siding could be to blame.

Rising Energy Bills

When energy bills rise unexpectedly, it could indicate a problem with the siding. When drafts occur near windows, walls, or around switch plates, it could mean that it is time to install new siding and insulation. In fact, many homeowners who upgrade their siding for other reasons are pleasantly surprised to find that their heating and cooling bills decrease as a result.

Contact The Northern Virginia Siding Professionals

Whether you wish to upgrade older siding, update the appearance of your home or improve its energy efficiency, the experienced siding contractors at Adelphia Exteriors are happy to lend their expertise. Get in touch today online over the phone at (703) 386-7357 to find out more about our residential siding services or request a free siding evaluation.

Homeowners who are looking to add value to their home often find the greatest return on investment when they focus on aesthetic upgrades. Increasing a home’s curb appeal is consistently identified by real estate agents as one of the top steps homeowners can take to improve their sales prospects.

The Benefits Of Re-siding A Home

Updating a home’s siding is one of the most effective ways of improving a home’s appearance and appeal to buyers, and it can also provide energy savings and greater protection from the elements.

Increased Curb Appeal

Siding is one of the first things that prospective buyers will notice about a home, so ensuring it is in top condition and visually appealing should be a priority for those looking to sell. The 2018 Remodeling Impact Report from the National Association of Realtors revealed that 99% of Realtors feel curb appeal is important for attracting a buyer. In addition, when recent home buyers were questioned about the features that were most important to them, nearly 30% chose the category of windows, doors and siding installation.

Energy Savings

In addition to adding to a property’s curb appeal, re-siding a home can help to control energy costs. This makes it a smart investment whether homeowners are considering putting their house up for sale or they plan to live in it in the long term.

Greater Protection

Another benefit of new siding is its ability to guard a home against damage related to the outdoors, including fire, water and pests. Aging or damaged siding can result in mold and wall deterioration, and it can even compromise the home’s structural integrity. Poor siding can also result in higher energy costs.

Signs That Siding Should Be Replaced Or Repaired

Some of the signs that a home’s siding should be replaced or repaired include:

• The presence of mold
• The development of bubbles beneath the siding
• Rotted or warped panels
• Higher energy costs
• Loose or cracked panels
• Signs of moisture inside the home
• Holes in panels
• A frequent need for repainting

When Is Repair Appropriate?

It is not always necessary to fully replace the siding if only a few panels or boards are damaged. In some cases, it may be enough to pressure-wash dirty or moldy siding to make it look fresh and clean. Then, homeowners can inspect the siding more closely for signs of damage that go beyond dirt, paint or a small amount of mold.

Professional siding contractors can replace individual panels. If the damage is limited to just one side of the home, another option may be having only one side of the house’s siding replaced.

Different approaches are needed to repair the different types of siding available. For example, wood panels can be removed and replaced or repaired by filling in holes, but aluminum and vinyl siding tend to need the entire panel replaced as there are no easy repairs for these materials.

Types Of Siding That Can Increase A Home’s Value

There are many options available when it comes to siding materials and colors. Some of the best choices for increasing a home’s value include:

• Fiber Cement – Fiber cement is composed of a mixture of cement, wood particles and sand. It has an appearance that is very similar to wood, but it is more durable and is considered a more upscale material than vinyl. When installed correctly, fiber cement is also insect-proof. Some of the benefits of fiber cement siding include its ability to resist fire, termites, rot and moisture. In addition, it is a material that does not flex, which makes it less likely to crack.
• Vinyl – Vinyl is one of the most popular siding materials thanks to its affordable price and lightweight nature. Additionally, it requires very little in the way of maintenance. Homeowners are often drawn to vinyl siding because it is available in a broad variety of colors, styles and prices.
• Foam – Foam core and foam-backed vinyl siding are excellent options because they create a solid foam barrier that allows the vinyl to rest flat against the home and reduce the impact of objects and weather conditions.
• Wood – Many buyers are drawn to the rustic and natural appearance of wood. However, it is a very high-maintenance siding material that is also vulnerable to water damage and insects, which means that it has fallen out of favor among homeowners.

The Cost Of New Siding

When a home’s siding needs to be fully replaced, the cost is often a big concern for homeowners. Although full siding replacement is not considered a cheap home project, it does provide a good return on investment.

The overall cost of a project will depend on the type of materials used, the type of existing siding and the home’s overall size. The average cost ranges from $5,000 to $14,500.

According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2018 Cost Versus Value Report, homeowners can expect an average return on investment of 76.4% on new siding, while the National Association of Realtors’ 2017 Remodeling Impact Report noted an average return on investment of 75% for new siding.

Discuss Your Project With The Experienced Siding Contractors

If you are interested in replacing aging siding on your home, improving its energy efficiency and enhancing its appearance, reach out to the experienced siding contractors at Adelphia Exteriors to find out more about our siding repair and installation services.