The Challenge Of Replacing House Siding: Is It Worth The Effort?

Replacing the siding on your house is no easy feat. While some experienced DIYers may feel comfortable replacing siding themselves, it's generally best to leave this project to a professional installer. Siding is important for protecting the structure from the effects of weather, insects and other outdoor elements. The process of replacing siding will depend on the type of siding material, which could be vinyl, wood, stone veneer, fiber cement or composite. Vinyl siding, for example, requires supplies such as new matching vinyl siding, tin snips, minimum 1” galvanized steel nails with at least a 3/8” head, and a hammer. It is also important to wear protective gloves and eye protection.

DIY vs hiring a professional

Overview

Replacing the siding on a house is a complex project that requires careful consideration. While it can be tempting to take the DIY approach to save costs, there are several factors to weigh before making a decision. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of DIY versus hiring a professional siding contractor, providing a detailed guide to help you make an informed choice.

DIY Siding Installation

Pros:

• Cost savings: Doing it yourself can save money, especially if you have experience with similar projects and own the necessary tools.
• Flexibility: You can work according to your own schedule and avoid the hassle of coordinating with a construction crew.
• Independence: You don't have to rely on others and can take satisfaction in completing the project on your own.

Cons:

• Skill and experience: Siding installation is not a beginner-level project. It requires technical knowledge, such as working around corners, eaves, and openings for windows and doors. Inexperience can lead to costly mistakes and increase the risk of damage to your home.
• Time commitment: A siding project can be time-consuming, especially if you're working alone or with limited help. Professionals often take a few weeks to complete re-siding, depending on the size of the house and weather conditions.
• Specialized tools: Siding installation requires various specialized tools, such as tin snips, power saws, levels, and safety equipment for working at heights. These tools can be expensive to purchase or rent.
• Material costs: You will need to purchase all the materials yourself and may not receive the same supplier discounts as contractors.
• Unforeseen issues: During the project, you may uncover more extensive damage to your house, such as water damage or pest infestations. Identifying and addressing these issues correctly requires expertise.
• Mistake correction: Mistakes are easier to make than to fix, and incorrect installation can lead to leaks and damage to your home.

Hiring a Professional Siding Contractor

Pros:

• Peace of mind: Professional siding contractors provide insurance, licenses, certificates, and bonds that protect you in case of emergencies or issues during the project.
• Warranty: Warrantied work provides a backup if any problems arise after the project is completed.
• Full-service: Professionals handle everything from preparation to cleanup, ensuring a thorough and efficient process.
• Set schedule and budget: You can agree on a schedule and budget that works for you, and a good contractor will stick to these terms.
• Permits and building codes: Professional contractors will obtain the necessary permits and ensure compliance with building codes, saving you from potential legal issues.
• Increased home value: Hiring a professional helps ensure that the siding is installed correctly and improves your home's value.

Cons:

• Cost: Hiring a professional siding contractor typically comes with higher labor costs, and these costs can rise if additional work is needed.
• Availability: The availability of contractors may be unpredictable, and you might need to wait for their services.
• Vetting process: Finding a reliable and reputable contractor requires research and vetting to ensure they have the necessary skills and experience.

Whether you choose to replace your siding through a DIY project or by hiring a professional, it is essential to carefully consider your skills, budget, and time constraints. While a DIY approach can save costs, it also carries more risk and requires a significant time investment. Hiring a professional provides expertise, peace of mind, and a guaranteed level of quality. Ultimately, the decision should be made based on your specific circumstances and the level of complexity involved in your siding replacement project.

Vinyl siding

When replacing vinyl siding, it is recommended to have an extra set of hands as the pieces are long and floppy. The nail heads should not make contact with the siding. The siding hangs on the body of the nail, but the head should be at least 1/8" away from touching the siding.

• Remove the old vinyl siding by using a zip tool. Start at the end of the damaged vinyl siding and slide the zip tool under the siding until it hooks the bottom lip. Pull the zip tool down and out to unhook the vinyl siding and loosen it.
• Remove the nails from the siding by sliding a pry bar behind the vinyl siding to pop out the nails holding the piece in place.
• Add the new vinyl siding by sliding the new piece into place. Push up until the lower lip locks into the piece below it.
• Hammer 1-1/4-inch roofing nails into the nailing flange. Place the nail in the centre of the flange but do not drive it all the way in. Leave about 1/32 of an inch to allow for expansion and contraction of the vinyl siding.
• Lock the new vinyl siding piece into place with a zip tool. Start at one end of the piece and pull the lip down, then twist the zip tool slightly to force the leading edge down. Slide the zip tool along and snap the vinyl siding into place by pushing down on it.

The entire process should take between one to three hours, depending on how much replacement is needed. The cost of the project is estimated to be $100 or less.

Plywood siding

Step 1: Remove the Damaged Siding

Carefully remove the damaged siding panel using a claw hammer and a pry bar. Try to keep the old piece intact so you can use it as a template for cutting the new plywood sheet.

Step 2: Prepare the Surface

Remove any old nails, paint, and caulk from around the siding. A utility knife can be useful for this task. Make sure to keep track of all the old nails and discard them safely.

Step 3: Measure and Cut the New Siding

Use the old plywood panel as a guide to measure and mark the cuts needed for the new piece. Ensure that the grooves on the new panel are facing the right direction. Use a circular saw to cut the edges and a jigsaw to cut out openings for vents, windows, and power outlets.

Step 4: Install the New Siding

Nail the new piece of siding into place. Use paintable exterior caulk to seal all the edges of the new panel.

Step 5: Prime and Paint

Once the caulk is completely dry, apply a coat of primer to the new siding. Don't skimp on the primer, as it will help prevent future water damage. After the primer has dried, paint the wood with at least two coats of exterior paint.

Repeat this process for each damaged plywood siding panel that needs to be replaced.

While replacing plywood siding is a doable project for experienced DIYers, it is important to consider the scope of the project, the required tools, and your own skill level before deciding whether to tackle it yourself or hire a professional.

Wood lap siding

Replacing the siding on your house is a complex and challenging project. It is a time-consuming and labour-intensive process, and for extensive damage, a complete replacement will be needed. If you are considering taking on the project yourself, you should first consider your level of experience with DIY, whether you have enough people to help you, and whether you have the time and budget to hire a professional.

If you decide to replace wood lap siding yourself, here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Assess the Damage

Before starting any work, carefully inspect your siding for signs of damage. Look out for soft or rotten pieces of wood siding, or pieces that have fallen off the house. If the damage is extensive and affects more than a few boards, a complete replacement will be necessary.

Step 2: Gather the Right Tools and Materials

To replace wood lap siding, you will need the following tools and materials:

• New siding
• Paintable exterior caulk
• Hammer
• 8D galvanized nails
• Utility knife
• Safety goggles
• Oscillating multi-tool
• Circular saw
• Old piece of siding (to use as a template)

Step 3: Remove the Damaged Siding

Use the oscillating multi-tool to cut the hidden nails and carefully remove the damaged wood with a pry bar. Make sure to cut the siding between at least two studs to ensure a secure fitting for the new piece.

Step 4: Prepare the Surface

Remove any old nails, paint, and caulk from around the siding. Use a utility knife to carefully cut away the caulk. Keep track of all old nails and discard them to avoid accidents.

Step 5: Measure and Cut the New Siding

Use the old piece of siding as a template to measure and cut the new siding to fit the gap. It is important to measure twice and cut once to ensure an accurate fit.

Step 6: Attach the New Siding

Nail the new piece of siding in place, making sure to attach it to at least two studs.

Step 7: Caulk and Prime the New Siding

Caulk all the edges of the new siding to seal it in place. Once the caulk is dry, prime and paint the wood. Plan to apply at least two coats of paint for a uniform finish.

Step 8: Repeat as Needed

Repeat this process for all sections of damaged wood lap siding.

Remember, replacing siding is a complex project, and it is important to carefully consider whether you have the necessary skills and tools before starting. If you are unsure, it may be best to consult a professional.

Fiber cement siding

• Remove any existing siding and inspect the exterior walls for damage or rot.
• Apply a water-resistant barrier to the exterior walls to protect against moisture infiltration.
• Attach a starter strip at the bottom of the wall to support the first course of siding.
• Begin installing the siding panels from the bottom up, ensuring each panel overlaps the one below it. Use corrosion-resistant nails to secure the panels, leaving a small gap for expansion.
• Install trim around windows, doors, and corners for a finished look.
• Apply caulk to seal gaps and prevent water penetration.
• Conduct a final inspection to ensure all panels are securely fastened and sealed.

This type of siding is available in a variety of textures and colors, including woodgrain, smooth, and stucco finishes, allowing for design flexibility. It can be purchased pre-primed or pre-painted, with the color baked on for a long-lasting finish that withstands fading and peeling.

Regular maintenance of fiber cement siding includes rinsing it at least once a year with a garden hose or pressure washer, and periodically inspecting it for any signs of damage, such as cracks or chips. Repainting may be necessary every 10 to 15 years to maintain its appearance.

Overall, fiber cement siding is a durable, low-maintenance, and versatile option for homeowners, offering enhanced curb appeal, fire resistance, and reduced maintenance costs. While the initial cost is higher than some other materials, its long-term benefits make it a good choice for many homes.

Frequently asked questions