Homeowners insurance may cover the cost of siding repair or replacement, but coverage depends on the cause of the damage. Most policies will cover damage from a covered event, such as a storm, wind, hail, fire, natural disaster, or other impact damage. Your policy might pay for the full or partial cost of the repair or replacement. However, damage resulting from age, general wear and tear, or neglect is typically not covered, and you should expect to pay for those repairs out of pocket. It is best to review your specific homeowners insurance policy for full details on what is covered, how to file a claim, and what documentation is required.

Not wrapping a house before installing siding can lead to moisture intrusion, rot, mold, and even higher energy bills. Older houses may have siding installed without wrap underneath, so it’s a good idea to add a wrap layer when it comes time to replace old siding to prevent potential damage from water intrusion—local codes may even require it, so check with your municipal building authority. 

Composite siding, with proper care, can last 30 years and sometimes more. Because its color has a tendency to fade, you might want to re-paint it every five years or so. Before purchasing composite siding, check the manufacturer’s warranty—you should have a long-term warranty to back up the quality of the product.

You should install your cedar shake siding with the rough side exposed. The smooth side is less resistant to weathering over the years, and the rough side gives your home a more rugged aesthetic. The rough side also takes to paint better and ensures any paint job will last longer before needing to be redone.