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The average cost to replace siding is $10,500, but you should expect to pay an average of $12,000 to install new siding over stucco. The additional cost goes toward assessing the old stucco for damage, any necessary repairs before the new siding goes up, and the materials and labor required to install furring strips over the stucco to attach the new material. Even with this additional cost, installing siding over stucco is often more affordable than removing the stucco and starting over.

Professional installers typically recommend caulking between siding boards, but it depends on the material. With Hardie board and fiber cement siding, manufacturers don't recommend adding caulk because it can trap moisture in the joints or discourage flexibility in fluctuating temperatures. Consult your local siding contractor about caulking best practices before adding any to your home’s exterior.

Choosing siding combinations that look good together comes down to finding textures and colors that complement each other. You want some contrast so that your home doesn’t look boring or too uniform, but you also want the materials to play off of each other so that each makes the other stand out. It’s a good idea to hire a siding professional to create 3D renderings for you so you can get a sense of what your home will look and feel like before you get started.

You should consider acclimating the wood for your shou sugi ban siding for around two weeks before installation to balance its moisture content and prevent warping. That additional step will ensure your materials are prepped for installation, avoiding complex repairs down the line. Consult your siding contractor for additional installation instructions for this specialized material.