Question 1

How long does siding last?

Accepted Answer

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The length of time your siding will last will depend on the siding material and your climate. It’s important to remember that proper routine maintenance, like twice-a-year cleaning, is vital to help extend the longevity of your siding and to avoid replacement before its expected lifetime ends.

Vinyl, aluminum, and wood siding lasts 20 to 40 years
Fiber cement siding lasts around 50 years
Brick and stone veneer siding lasts at least 100 years

Vinyl, aluminum, and wood siding lasts 20 to 40 years
Fiber cement siding lasts around 50 years
Brick and stone veneer siding lasts at least 100 years

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Vinyl siding has a limited lifetime warranty from the manufacturer against cracking and fading. Realistically, 25 to 30 years is the lifespan.

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House siding can last 20–60 years depending on the material, quality, installation, and maintenance.

Vinyl siding typically lasts 20–40 years but can last longer with regular maintenance. Cedar siding can last up to 60 years with proper maintenance. Metal siding can last up to 40–70 years depending on installation and care. Fiber cement siding can last up to 50 years with proper installation and care. Wood siding can last 20–40 years but needs to be repainted every 3–5 years to protect it from moisture and UV radiation. Stucco siding can last 50–80 years depending on how it is backed.

Factors that affect siding longevity include the quality of the siding material and the quality of installation, the local climate, and how well the siding is maintained.

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Most vinyl siding products have a lifetime warranty. Cement board, aka Hardie Board, has a 30-year warranty on the integrity of the siding and a 15-year finish warranty on all Color Plus options. Aluminum siding is obsolete.

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When selecting siding for your home, it’s important to consider the maintenance requirements based on the material you choose. Often, the final decision comes down to the aesthetic you're aiming for. Materials like natural cedar or pine planking, batten board, shakes, and clapboard typically need stabilizers such as oils and stains to maintain their appearance. On the other hand, vinyl siding, which mimics the look of wood, is easier to maintain and generally only requires a simple power wash.

After nearly 40 years as a contractor, I've observed a key factor that contributes to the aging, fading, splitting, and rotting of siding: The sun. The sun's powerful rays break down stabilizers in both vinyl and paint, which are crucial for extending the life of these materials. If you carefully read the manufacturer’s warnings on paint and vinyl siding products, you’ll notice a recommendation to maintain at least 18 to 20 inches of clearance from plant life to avoid voiding the warranty. So, my advice to homeowners—whether you're a first-time buyer, a retiree, or an investor—is to choose siding based on your home's environment and its specific conditions. During your search, you’ll find that product engineers have created siding solutions designed for long-lasting performance, ensuring both durability and a great product reputation to encourage repeat customers.

Question 2

How much does it cost to repair siding?

Accepted Answer

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Siding repair costs $870 for an average homeowner. This cost could be as little as $75 or as much as $16,000, depending on your existing siding material, repair type, and damage level. For example, for basic siding repair, you can expect to pay between $2 and $16 per square foot for materials and labor. However, if you have extensive damage or for more expensive materials like stucco, that price jumps to $4 to $50 per square foot.

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There is a difference between repairing/partial replacement and a complete installation. A repair service call for vinyl siding is at least $300.00. The more material that needs to be purchased for partial replacement, the higher the cost. The average cost for a complete installation of vinyl siding and soffit is $17k to $22K depending on the size and grade of materials.

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The cost to repair siding varies depending on the damage but can range from $3,000 to $80,000. Depending on the state, permits and plans may be required as well as specific professional services like architects/engineers and licensed B contractors.

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When it comes to siding repair or replacement, pricing can vary greatly based on several factors, including the age of your siding, the extent of damage, and whether the entire house needs to be replaced due to considerations like "uniform appearance."

The uniformity of your siding is essential, especially if your existing materials have faded or aged differently over time. In these cases, replacing a portion of the siding may leave noticeable color or texture mismatches, leading to the need for a full replacement to maintain a cohesive look. This is just one example of why the cost of siding repair or replacement can vary dramatically.

It's important to understand that siding repair costs can range anywhere from $75 to as much as $16,000, depending on your specific situation. On average, homeowners may expect to pay around $870 for siding repairs. However, this is just a ballpark estimate, and the actual cost can fluctuate based on two key factors: siding material and damage extent.

Siding material: Whether you have vinyl, wood, stucco, or another material will heavily impact costs. For example, basic siding repair costs can range from $2 to $16 per square foot for common materials, like vinyl or wood. But if you have a more premium siding material like stucco, the price could increase significantly, ranging from $4 to $50 per square foot.

Damage extent: Minor damage, such as a few cracked panels, will be much less expensive to fix than more extensive damage caused by a storm or wear and tear over time. If the damage is severe enough, it may require replacing entire sections of the house, leading to higher overall costs.

Given the complexity of these factors, pricing should never be determined upfront without a personal walk-through and thorough evaluation by an experienced contractor. A seasoned contractor can assess your home's unique circumstances—such as the siding's age, condition, and the overall appearance—and provide a more accurate estimate. It’s not wise to rely on generic pricing estimates without understanding the specifics of your home. For homeowners seeking siding repairs or replacement, working closely with an experienced contractor ensures that you receive a fair and accurate quote based on your actual needs.

Question 3

Will my homeowners insurance cover siding repair?

Accepted Answer

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There are certain circumstances where your homeowners insurance might cover the expense of siding repair. If you have siding damage due to extreme weather, a natural disaster, a fire, or a hail storm, your policy might fully or partially pay for the repair or replacement cost. However, most policies will not help pay for repairs due to general wear and tear. It’s best to review your homeowners insurance policy for full details on what may be covered.

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In certain situations, your homeowners insurance may cover the cost of siding repairs or replacement. If your siding is damaged by extreme weather conditions, a natural disaster, a fire, or a hailstorm, your insurance policy could pay for some or all of the repair or replacement costs. This coverage can be crucial, as severe weather events and disasters can cause significant damage to your home.

However, it’s important to note that most homeowners insurance policies will not cover repairs due to general wear and tear or normal aging of materials. For instance, fading, cracking, or rotting caused by prolonged exposure to the elements is typically considered a maintenance issue and is not eligible for reimbursement.

To fully understand what’s covered, it’s crucial to review your homeowners insurance policy in detail. Pay close attention to exclusions, specific types of coverage for exterior damage, and the conditions under which you can file a claim for siding repair or replacement. It’s also a good idea to consult with your insurance provider to get a clear explanation of your coverage and how to maximize the benefits available to you.

When dealing with siding damage and potential insurance claims, it’s equally important to work with an experienced contractor who can guide you through the evaluation and repair process. A reputable contractor not only helps assess the extent of the damage but can also work alongside your insurance company to ensure that you receive the full benefits of your policy. An experienced contractor will thoroughly inspect the damage and provide an accurate, detailed estimate for repairs. They’ll help document the damage properly, which can be crucial in ensuring your insurance claim is successful. Additionally, they can assist in identifying any potential issues that may have been overlooked, ensuring that you don’t miss out on the coverage that you’re entitled to. Contractors with experience in insurance claims can also serve as advocates, communicating with your insurance provider.

Question 4

How much does it cost to replace siding?

Accepted Answer

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The cost to replace siding for your home is $11,450 on average. But siding replacement can cost up to $40,000 or more, with the largest expense being your chosen material. For example, for a 2,000 square feet house, the average cost of siding materials such as vinyl is between $9,000 and $14,000. Wood siding is a little more expensive, ranging from $16,000 to $26,000. However, for the same size house using brick or stone, that cost jumps to $18,000 to $100,000. When choosing to replace your home’s siding, it’s essential to consider your climate and longevity.

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The minimum amount to replace siding for a 2,000 square foot home is $14,000 for vinyl siding, and it goes up higher from there.

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The average cost to replace vinyl siding on an average two-story home is between $17k and $22K depending on the grade and color of vinyl.

Question 5

What are the different types of siding available?

Accepted Answer

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There are several different types of siding available to give you the home exterior of your dreams. Each type of siding has its own cost factors, estimated lifespan, and benefits to fit your needs. Some common siding options include:

Vinyl
Wood
Aluminum
Fiber cement
Brick
Stone and stone veneer
Stucco

If you want to stay environmentally friendly, wood siding is natural, recyclable, and renewable. However, if you’re looking for a durable siding option that is more resistant to dents and scratches, brick or stone siding is your best choice.