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Regular washing and quick repair of damaged areas to maintain appearance.

Siding underlayment varies based on the type of material, but most siding is installed on top of a vapor barrier, a moisture-resistant house wrap, sheathing made from plywood or oriented strand board (OSB), and a layer of insulation sheeting. Having the correct underlayment is a critical part of properly installing siding and will protect your home from water intrusion, structural damage, and energy loss.

Yes, you can install siding over stucco, but it's crucial to ensure the stucco is in good condition first. Before proceeding, inspect the stucco for any signs of damage, leaks, or mold growth. If you discover water damage, mold, or have ongoing leak issues, it's recommended to remove the stucco completely. This step prevents future problems like mold and pest infestations and allows a professional to repair or replace any damaged sheathing underneath. If the stucco is sound, the installation process involves attaching furring strips to the wall's framing directly through the stucco. The new siding is then installed onto these furring strips. A professional may also need to adjust window and door openings to prevent them from being recessed behind the new siding, which can cause aesthetic issues and create potential leak points.

While homeowners' insurance can include coverage for siding, general wear and tear of siding is not covered. If your siding is rotting—especially because you haven’t kept up with proper siding maintenance—replacement siding will likely not be covered by your homeowners' insurance policy. Instead, insurance generally covers siding repair or replacement if your siding has been damaged by extreme weather, vandalism, fire, or some kind of collision, like by a vehicle.