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You should consider a siding replacement material that meets your expectations for budget, durability, and if you want to complete the siding project yourself. Some materials are better than others in certain climates and easier to install for beginners. If you’re unsure which material suits your home, check with a local contractor for guidance.

You should restain or refinish your home's cedar siding every three to seven years to maintain its appearance and ensure maximum protection. The precise frequency depends on several factors, including your local climate, the siding's exposure to severe weather like direct sunlight, rain, and wind, the quality of the initial stain application, the type of stain used, and the condition of the wood.

Homeowners in harsh climates with high humidity and significant direct sunlight should plan on restaining every three years, while those in milder locations can wait up to seven years. For the longest-lasting protection in particularly harsh environments, consider using an opaque stain.

If you're looking for a lower-maintenance alternative, vinyl or aluminum siding are options to consider. Although their installation cost may be higher, they don't require as much upkeep over time, which can provide more value, especially in areas with excessive rainfall or high humidity.

You can calculate the required square footage of siding you need by measuring the height and width of your home’s rectangular exterior walls. For the triangular-shaped gable walls, measure the height from the ground to the tallest gable point to make sure you have enough for good coverage. Once you have combined the totals for each wall, add another 10% to account for wasted materials. It’s also good to have extra siding on hand to tackle wood siding repair down the road.

A square of siding refers to 100 square feet of siding materials. Rather than sell by the individual square foot, manufacturers typically sell siding materials by the square. For instance, if you need 105 square feet of siding but the material is sold in squares, you’ll need to purchase two squares (200 square feet).