The exterior of your home is one of the first things people see, and it plays a big role in your home’s overall look. If your home is in need of a new exterior, you may be wondering where to start. Siding is a popular exterior choice because it can be customized to match your home’s style, it’s durable, and it can add value to your home. In this post, we’ll discuss where to start when siding your home. And for a siding project in Portland, Oregon, you should contact Lifetime Exteriors.
Define the scope of the project
The first step in any project is to define the scope of the work. In other words, you need to figure out what you want to accomplish and how much it will cost. When it comes to siding a house, there are a lot of factors to consider. The first decision you need to make is whether you’re going to do the work yourself or hire a professional. Once you’ve made that decision, you need to determine the scope of the project. What kind of siding do you want? What style? What color? What type of material? How thick? Once you have a good idea of what you want, you can start estimating the cost.
Estimate the cost
There are several factors that determine the cost of siding a house:
-The type of siding you choose. Siding materials vary in price from inexpensive (and not as durable) vinyl to long-lasting and beautiful cedar, to high-end options like fiber cement or stucco.
-The amount of existing trim, plumbing pipes, windowsills, and fixtures on the exterior walls where you plan to install your new siding. If you need to remove impaired or damaged areas of siding before installing new material, this will increase both labor and material costs because it’s more difficult for two workers to maneuver around obstacles than one.
While generally speaking higher-end siding materials tend to last longer than lower-end options, the truth is that all siding materials will eventually need to be replaced. The frequency with which you’ll need to replace your siding depends on a variety of factors including the quality of the installation, the type of climate where you live (harsh weather can cause damage), and how well you maintain your siding.
If you’re planning to sell your house in the near future, it’s worth taking into account that certain types of siding can add value to your home while others may not. For example, cedar siding is very popular with homebuyers and can add a significant amount to the resale value of your property. On the other hand, vinyl siding is much less expensive than other options but it may not add as much value to your home. So, if you’re planning to sell in the near future, it’s worth spending a little extra on siding that will make your house more attractive to buyers. If you are looking for the best quality cedar siding for your home, you can try and visit G&B Quality Cedar Products.
The tools you need to get started siding a house
Before you start siding your house, there are a few basic tools that you will need. Whether you’re doing the work yourself or hiring a contractor, these tools are essential for ensuring the quality of your work. A measuring tape and a spirit level will help you to accurately measure and install the siding, while a utility knife can be used for cutting it in place. You’ll also need an air compressor with caulking gun accessories to seal all of the joints where two pieces of siding meet, as well as some ladders to reach high areas.
Cut and install siding
Once you have all of your materials and tools, you’re ready to start cutting and installing the siding. It’s important to take your time and measure twice before cutting, as even a small mistake can be costly. To install the siding, start at the bottom of the wall and work your way up, using a nail gun to secure each piece in place. Be sure to seal all of the joints with caulk to prevent water damage.
Once your siding is installed, it’s important to think about maintenance. Depending on the type of siding you choose, you may need to paint or stain it regularly to keep it looking its best. Vinyl siding is one of the easiest types of siding to maintain, while wood and fiber cement siding will require more regular care. Regular cleaning with a hose or pressure washer can help to remove dirt and grime and help your siding last longer.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a first-time home sider or a veteran looking to switch to a different material, it’s important to start by defining the scope of the project. Once you know what you’re working with, you can choose the right siding material and get started on the installation. Remember to take your time and be precise – rushing through the job only leads to botched results.
