Best siding pros near Eagle Grove, IA

The telltale signs that your home is ready for repointing include visibly damaged bricks, crumbling bricks, flaking bricks, loose mortar, cracked mortar, gaps between brick and mortar, leaking inside your home, and visible water damage. Consider repointing when going over brick house pros and cons if you're buying a new home. Repointing is also a good idea if you plan to paint, acid wash, or stain your brick home, as it will give you a good base for coloration and prevent repairs after the work is done.

Vinyl siding is the cheapest option in terms of upfront costs. The average cost to install vinyl siding is around $12,173, with certain types like vinyl shake, clapboard, or dutch lap costing as little as $2 to $3 per square foot. While vinyl is very low-cost, it may not last as long as natural materials or metal, with a typical lifespan of 20 to 40 years. In contrast, metal siding is more expensive initially but can save you money in the long run due to its longer lifespan, which is often double that of vinyl. It's recommended to consult a siding professional to determine if the lowest-cost option is the best material for your specific home.

Clapboard is considered to be eco-friendly, as it is mostly sourced from sustainable natural resources and it has insulating properties. Clapboard is more sustainable than vinyl siding materials, which are made of plastic. Clapboard made from fiber cement can also be considered environmentally friendly. This material mimics the look of wood without the impact of deforestation.

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.