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You can calculate the required square footage of siding you need by measuring the height and width of your home’s rectangular exterior walls. For the triangular-shaped gable walls, measure the height from the ground to the tallest gable point to make sure you have enough for good coverage. Once you have combined the totals for each wall, add another 10% to account for wasted materials. It’s also good to have extra siding on hand to tackle wood siding repair down the road.

You should plan to stain or refinish your home's cedar siding every three to seven years to maintain its appearance and provide maximum protection, though some estimates suggest a range of four to six years. The exact frequency depends on several factors, including your local climate, exposure to severe weather like direct sunlight, rain, and wind, the quality of the initial stain application, the type of stain used, and the overall condition and quality of the wood.

For homes in harsh climates with high humidity and significant sun exposure, you should plan on staining as often as every three years, while those in milder locations may only need to do so every seven years. For the longest-lasting protection in particularly harsh climates, consider using an opaque stain.

If you are looking for a lower-maintenance alternative, you might consider vinyl or aluminum siding. While the initial installation cost can be higher, they do not require as much upkeep and can offer more value over time, especially in areas with excessive rainfall or high humidity.

When moisture infiltrates your siding, it can result in deterioration and decay of the sheathing, cause structural damage to your foundation, and provides an ideal breeding ground for mold. Mold growth can lead to various health-related problems, such as itchy eyes, sneezing, allergies, and asthma. Mold and dampness commonly attract a wide range of insects, so if your siding has taken any kind of water damage, it could invite some unwelcome guests.

Caulking should be re-applied roughly every five years. It's natural for a home to settle and separate caulking from joints, so it's a good idea to assess the home every two years. A consistent siding maintenance schedule will help you see if the caulking is needed and address any potential issues before they occur.