Thinking About New Siding for Your Lehi Home?
So, you're looking at your house and thinking it's time for new siding. Maybe you've got some old, faded vinyl, or that original stucco from the 90s is just looking tired. Whatever the reason, replacing your siding is a big project, and it's one of the best investments you can make in your home's curb appeal and protection. As someone who's been doing this for years here in Lehi, I've seen it all, and I want to share what you really need to know before, during, and after the job.
Before the Project: Planning and Prep
This is where you can save yourself a lot of headaches and money. Don't just jump into picking a color. Take some time to think about what you want and what your house needs.
- Assess the Damage: Walk around your house. Are there soft spots? Cracks? Missing pieces? Peeling paint? This isn't just about aesthetics; it's about what's going on underneath. If you've got water damage, that needs to be addressed before any new siding goes up.
- Material Matters: There are tons of options these days: vinyl, fiber cement (like James Hardie), wood, engineered wood, metal. Each has its pros and cons in terms of cost, durability, maintenance, and look. Around here, with our hot summers and cold, snowy winters, fiber cement is a popular choice because it holds up really well to temperature swings and doesn't rot or attract pests. Vinyl is still a good budget-friendly option, but it can get brittle in extreme cold.
- Budgeting: Get a realistic idea of what you're willing to spend. Siding isn't cheap, but it's an investment. Get a few quotes. Don't just go with the cheapest one; make sure you're comparing apples to apples in terms of materials, scope of work, and warranty.
- Permits: Yes, you'll likely need a permit from Lehi City for a siding replacement. Your contractor should handle this, but it's good to be aware of it. Don't let anyone tell you they don't need one; that's a red flag.
- DIY vs. Pro: Can you do some of this yourself? Maybe. Small repairs? Absolutely. A full house re-side? Unless you're a very experienced carpenter with a lot of time and the right tools, I'd strongly advise against it. This isn't just nailing boards to a wall. It involves proper flashing, moisture barriers, precise cuts, and working at heights. Mess it up, and you're looking at water damage, mold, and a whole lot more money down the road.
During the Project: What to Expect
Once you've picked your contractor (hopefully someone like us at Classic Siding Inc) and the materials, the work begins. Here's what you should expect:
- Demolition: The old siding has to come off. This can be noisy and dusty. Your contractor should protect your landscaping, windows, and doors as much as possible.
- Inspection and Repairs: Once the old siding is off, the sheathing and framing underneath are exposed. This is the critical moment to check for any hidden rot, insect damage, or structural issues. If problems are found, they need to be fixed before the new siding goes on. This might add to your cost and timeline, but it's essential.
- Installation: The new siding goes up. Good installers pay attention to details like straight lines, proper spacing, and secure fastening. Don't be afraid to ask questions if you see something that doesn't look right.
- Cleanup: A good crew will clean up the site daily and do a thorough final cleanup. You don't want nails or scraps left in your yard.
After the Project: Maintenance and Enjoyment
The new siding is on, and your house looks fantastic! Now what?
- Final Walk-Through: Do a detailed walk-through with your contractor. Check everything. Make sure all trim pieces are installed, caulking is neat, and there are no visible defects. Don't sign off on the final payment until you're completely satisfied.
- Warranty: Understand your material warranty and your labor warranty. Keep all your paperwork in a safe place.
- Maintenance: Most modern sidings are pretty low maintenance, but they're not no maintenance. You'll still want to wash your siding periodically to remove dirt, pollen, and mildew. A soft brush and a garden hose usually do the trick. For fiber cement, check the caulk around windows and doors every few years and re-caulk if it's cracking. Keep an eye out for any storm damage or impact damage.
- Enjoy Your Home: That's it! You've got a beautiful, protected home that will stand up to our Lehi winds and sun for years to come. It's a great feeling, isn't it?
If you're in Lehi and thinking about new siding, don't hesitate to reach out. I'm always happy to talk through your options and give you an honest assessment.