A home’s siding is one of its most evident characteristics (aside from its doors, windows, roof, and gutters) and is typically something that takes significant time and effort to install. From planning to completion, there are several moving parts to siding installation and issues (some of which are unforeseen) that can arise during this process. Here is a close look at how long it takes to install siding.
Siding Installation Timeline
According to Modernize®, it normally takes between 10 and 14 days to install siding on a new house. However, the time frame for this type of project can often vary depending on factors such as your home’s style and size and whether your siding needs painting. The total timeline for siding installation includes the process of removing your current siding, prep, insulation additions, replacing your siding, and any touch-ups, such as trim work.
Considerations That Can Affect Siding Installation
Several issues can affect the timeline of your siding installation, including:
Wood Rot
Wood rot is a classic example of the type of issue that isn’t discovered until you remove your siding. This occurrence can delay your installation for days at a time, depending on the level of rot and the materials you have available to repair the issue.
Toxic Substances
Many homes built before 1979 often contain a host of toxic substances such as asbestos, which is fire-retardant, and lead paint, which can also harm both your home’s interior and exterior. If you or anyone else associated with your property notices these materials (following an inspection or on your own), be sure to alert your siding contractor immediately so that you can efficiently get rid of them.
Damaged Sheathing
Damaged sheathing is also a common issue many homeowners encounter upon removing their siding. It often takes time to repair ruined sheathing, so be sure to hire an experienced contractor. There are several things you can do to repair exterior sheathing rot, including using a good caulk and taping the joints.
Weather Events
Inclement weather such as heavy rain (that leads to flooding), hail, and wind can also impact the timeline of your siding installation. If you live in an area where these types of events are common, be sure to routinely monitor the weather so that you can choose a day with clear skies to have your new siding installed.
Pest Infestations
Many homes can also unfortunately become infested with pests such as rats and insects. If this is the case with your house, be sure to respond promptly and hire an exterminator (or fumigate your home). Pests can easily linger in your gutters, which are generally connected to the siding. Thus, your siding installation can be impacted by these animals.
What Can I Do To Prepare My House For New Siding?
There are many things you can do to ensure that your siding installation goes smoothly, such as:
- Ask your contractor how new siding can impact your downspouts and shutters and whether these must be removed.
- Move objects such as potted plants, outdoor furniture, and garden/lawn care equipment away from your home and trim all shrubs and trees.
- Mow your lawn so that it’s as short as possible just before your new siding is installed. This can help contractors more easily recover loose staples or nails.
- Siding installation is often a loud process. Therefore, try to keep yourself and your family out of the house on this day if possible. If your pets and children must stay home for whatever reason, be sure to monitor them as much as possible and ask the installation crew to be careful around them.
- Provide your contractor with at least one functioning power outlet.
- Park your cars far away enough from your home to minimize the possibility of damage.
- Place a dumpster near your house to throw out debris (you may need a permit for this depending on your homeowner’s association or municipality).
All of these precautions can help make the siding installation process significantly smoother, so be sure to take them, regardless of the type of home you own or the material you want for your siding (fiber cement, vinyl, metal, wood, etc.). Make sure to also maintain clear and effective communication with your siding contractors to avoid costly mistakes and you’ll soon have brand new siding that will make your house stand out more than you could have ever imagined.
Get Efficient Siding Installation From Adelphia Exteriors
Reach out to the professionals at Adelphia Exteriors to learn more about how long it takes to install siding for your home. We’re dedicated to providing high-quality and efficient siding installation services to clients throughout the DC Metro area. Our team members are highly flexible and pay excellent attention to detail. At Adelphia, we understand that siding isn’t simply an aesthetic component of a home.
It also shields your property from adverse weather and insulates your house so that it remains energy-efficient and warm. We can help you by recommending materials for siding based on your needs and budget and by efficiently installing or replacing your siding to increase your home’s value and curb appeal. Call Adelphia Exteriors today at (703) 386-7357 or contact us online to request a free siding evaluation or for more information about our services.