Common Questions on Siding Repair and Installation
The Census Bureau’s 2022 Survey of Construction found that the majority of new homes in our Pacific region are still being made with stucco exteriors, but the second most common material was fiber cement siding at 31%. When also considering the homes that were built with other types of siding, like vinyl, it’s clear that it remains a common building material across the Sacramento area. Whether you’re the current owner of a home with siding or you’re in the market to buy or build a new one, you’ve come to the right place for California siding expertise.
Our team at Central Builders has years of experience with siding repairs and installations of various types and scales. We specialize in premier renovations and remodeling for homeowners concerned with a high degree of expert care and attention to detail. Our priority is to always provide high-quality materials, solutions, and construction services that stand the test of time for invested homeowners. We’ll take the time in this article to address a number of common questions that homeowners typically have in regards to siding repair and installation. If we don’t cover your question here or if you’d simply like to know more, please do not hesitate to reach out and speak with us directly; we’d love to provide you with expert knowledge and guidance!
Questions on Siding Repair and Replacement
1. Can You Repair Damaged Siding?
Siding can often be repaired if the damage is localized and hasn’t compromised the underlying structure. For example, if only a few boards are affected by minor cracks or chips, our team at Central Builders can replace these specific areas and keep the rest of your siding intact. This approach will not only save you money, but it also maintains the appearance of your exterior without requiring a full replacement.
2. Can You Replace Just a Few Pieces of Siding?
Yes, with materials like James Hardie’s fiber cement siding, individual boards can be replaced as needed. This flexibility is particularly useful for Sacramento homes, where high temperatures or winter moisture might cause isolated wear. Unlike vinyl, which can be challenging to match after installation, James Hardie products retain consistent color and texture, allowing for seamless replacements.
3. How Do You Repair Siding Without Replacing It?
If your siding shows minor issues, like surface blemishes or minor water stains, Central Builders can perform repairs without replacing the siding. This may involve expertly filling cracks, repainting, or resealing.
4. Is It Easy to Replace Siding Yourself?
Replacing siding yourself can be challenging, especially with materials like fiber cement, which is heavy and requires special tools. Improper installation can also risk moisture intrusion and structural instability, so it’s a rather big deal. Exact alignment and spacing also plays a huge role in extending the siding’s durability by preventing warping and buckling, and ensuring a seamless appearance. Our team at Central Builders has the tools, experience, and knowledge to ensure your siding installation is done to perfection.
Questions on Siding Materials
1. What Is Usually Underneath the Siding?
Typically, a weather-resistant barrier (WRB) like house wrap is installed under siding to protect your home’s framing from moisture. In addition, a layer of either plywood or oriented strand board (OSB) serves as a sheathing layer, adding structural stability and insulation. At Central Builders, we assess and repair any damaged sheathing before installing new siding, ensuring a solid foundation that always meets California building codes.
2. Is Plywood or OSB Better Under Siding?
Both materials offer structural benefits, but OSB is often preferred for its cost-effectiveness and stability. However, plywood does have a slight edge in moisture resistance. Our team of Central Builder experts can help you decide on the right option based on your home’s specific needs and your preferred budget; you don’t have to make tough decisions like this alone!
3. Which Siding Lasts the Longest?
James Hardie fiber cement siding stands out for its longevity, often lasting over 50 years with minimal maintenance. This makes it one of the most durable siding materials available, outperforming wood, vinyl, and other composite sidings. We often recommend this siding for Sacramento homes due to our extreme seasonal climate and the added value that it brings to your home’s resale position.
4. What Type of Siding Adds the Most Value to a Home?
As we just mentioned, James Hardie fiber cement siding offers an incredible return on investment for Sacramento homeowners. According to the 2024 Cost vs. Value Report, a fiber cement siding replacement adds an average of $25,388 to your home’s value at an expected ROI of 115.7%. It literally pays to install this siding on your home! With a reputation for attracting buyers on the hunt for low-maintenance and long-lasting exteriors, it’s difficult to go wrong with this choice of siding.
Questions on Siding Installation
1. How Much Siding Do I Need for My House?
A 2,000-square-foot home typically requires around 2,500 square feet of siding, accounting for extra material to cover gables, dormers, and waste. Central Builders can assess your home to provide an accurate estimate and ensure that you purchase the right amount for the project without overspending.
2. How Is Siding Supposed to Be Installed?
Correct siding installation includes applying a moisture barrier, adding flashing around openings, and ensuring precise spacing to allow for expansion and contraction. This is a meticulous process that prevents moisture buildup and promotes durability. Our team follows strict guidelines for siding installation with specific techniques to accommodate the material’s weight and texture.
3. How Long Does It Take to Install Siding on a House?
A new siding replacement or installation can take one to two weeks, depending on factors like home size, material, and weather conditions. Our team at Central Builders works efficiently, ensuring your project is completed promptly and within your timelines without compromising quality.
Why We Recommend James Hardie
High Durability: Engineered specifically to withstand moisture, pests, and even fire, James Hardie siding is perfect for the specific challenges found in Sacramento’s climate.
Low Maintenance: With ColorPlus Technology, James Hardie siding is fade-resistant, reducing the need for frequent repainting that translates to lower maintenance costs over time.
Increased Home Value: This siding is not only attractive but also appealing to buyers, adding curb appeal and long-term value at a 115.7% ROI that many buyers prioritize when purchasing homes.
Case Study: Central Builders’ Siding Expertise on Display
A recent project of ours is a great example of our siding expertise in action. Mr. Combs needed several rows of aged and damaged siding replaced, but this posed some unique challenges that required us to match the new siding with the existing, older panels. Here’s what our client had to say about the project:
“Vic did an excellent job replacing several rows of siding which had aged and become damaged and worn. The job required him to take several extra steps in order to make the new siding planks match the old. The new material matched perfectly. Then he repainted the wood siding and the front of our house to match. This project went smoothly and my wife and I are extremely pleased with how it all turned out. Vic is very conscientious about his work and the quality of the finished work. I recommend him highly for repairs and renovations.”
We’re grateful for Mr. Combs’ high praise and beyond thankful that he trusted us with such a particular project. With a commitment to high standards and customer satisfaction, our team was able to not only match the new siding to the existing panels, but also repaint the home to ensure a unified and polished look. This is just one example of our dedication to providing premier renovation and siding services to our neighbors in the Sacramento area.
Sacramento’s Trusted Siding Professionals
If you’re ready to elevate your home with a fresh siding overhaul or simply need some repairs, reach out to our team today. We’ll provide you with a free estimate and talk with you through any questions or concerns you may have. An exterior upgrade can boost the value of your home in no time!
