The siding replacement process: Here’s what to expect

September 17, 2023 by

If you’re getting your siding replaced, you’re in for a treat! Replacing your siding can completely change the look and feel of your home. It’s also a great opportunity to improve your home’s insulation and energy efficiency. In this blog post, we will discuss what to expect during the replacement process. We’ll also provide some tips on how to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible!

Preparing for your siding installation project

There are a number of things you can do to prepare both the outside and inside of your home. Our siding replacement professionals will need clear access to the exterior of your home and plenty of space to do their work. Additionally, you will want to take steps to protect your family and valuables from the construction process. Here are the steps you should take to prepare.

Clear around your home’s exterior
To ensure the smooth and efficient removal and replacement of your home’s siding, it is important to take the time to trim grass and bushes around the perimeter of your house. Additionally, it is essential to clear any objects such as furniture, plant pots, toys, and other items that may be in the way of easy access to the exterior walls. This will make it easier for our team to work quickly and efficiently since they will have plenty of space and a clear path to the exterior walls. Furthermore, when items are removed from around your home’s walls, you can reduce any potential damage that could occur due to objects falling or being knocked over during the process.

Prepare the inside of your home
Due to the vibration generated by the removal and replacement of siding, it is important to relocate items on shelves and leaning against walls to a more stable location in your home. This will help minimize the possibility of damage to these items due to shifting during the construction process. It is especially important to move any delicate items that may be stored on or near walls, such as collectibles or porcelain decorations. If necessary, you could also consider taking down certain light fixtures or other objects that could potentially be affected by shaking or vibration. Not only will this help protect your belongings, but it can also reduce the risk of potential injury caused by falling objects. Taking these steps before work starts can make the entire siding replacement process go more smoothly and ensure that all your belongings stay safe throughout the job.

Think of the children…and pets
When it comes to siding replacement, it is also important to keep children and pets away from the construction site. While our team is working on the outside of your home, there may be debris or dust that could be hazardous. Additionally, the use of tools like ladders, saws, and other power equipment can add to potential risks in the yard. For these reasons, it is important to move any outdoor activities elsewhere until construction is completed. This would be a good time for kids to visit friends or relatives and pets to be sent to pet daycare or stay with a friend.

The siding replacement process

Replacing your home’s siding is a big job that involves four steps: removal, inspection, repair, and installation.

Removal
The removal process is the first step in replacing your home’s siding. It involves carefully removing the existing siding and underlying materials, such as insulation or other materials. The existing siding will be removed using specialty tools, such as a pry bar, hacksaw, hammer drill, or circular saw. Depending on what type of material your old siding is made of, the removal can take anywhere from a few hours to several days. In some cases, it may even be necessary to remove entire sections of wall if they are too damaged for repair.

Siding replacement in progress

Old siding has been removed to reveal plywood prior to replacement

Inspection
Our team will inspect what was under the old siding for any damage or other problems that need to be addressed. If your home has experienced any water damage, the inspector will look for signs of mold or mildew. They will also check to see if the insulation is still in good condition and whether it needs to be replaced. In addition, they will examine the framing of your home to make sure there is no structural damage that needs to be repaired.

Repair
Any issues that are found during the inspection process will be addressed before installation of the new siding begins. Planning ahead for the possibility of additional cost and/or time for repair work will help make that work less stressful if it is needed. Our team can guide you in this process and help prepare for the next steps. Doing these repairs is important as they can help avoid more costly repairs down the road and ensure that your new siding looks great and lasts for many years.

Installation
Once the repair work is completed, our team will begin installing the new siding. This process involves placing the new siding over the existing wall surface and attaching it with nails or screws. The contractor will then caulk and seal any gaps or seams to protect your home from outside elements such as water, air, and pests. Once complete, they may also apply a weatherproof coating to further protect your siding.

James Hardie siding replacement in progress

A protective house wrap is applied prior to siding replacement

 

Home partially covered with James Hardie siding

Siding installation in progress

When the installation is finished, our team will clean up around your home. This includes removing all tools and materials used during the job, sweeping up debris on walkways and driveways, and hosing down sidewalks and patios. They may also paint any areas that were exposed during the installation process for a more uniform look. Finally, they should remove any leftover scraps of material from around your property so that no trace of their work remains once they are done.

Home after James Hardie siding has been installed

Siding installation is complete

Replacing your home’s siding is a big job that should not be taken lightly. It involves four steps: removal, inspection, repair, and installation. To ensure the job goes as smoothly as possible, it is important to contact a qualified contractor like Gunner who can handle everything from start to finish. Gunner can provide a free estimate for the cost and time required for the project and take care of any necessary repairs before installing the new siding. When done, you will be left with a beautiful new exterior that will last for many years.