Siding Guide for Homeowners

There's never a home remodeling project that's easy or tidy; vinyl or fiber cement siding installation is no exception. Although there isn't any paint involved, it can get rather messy in your yard during the removal of the old material and the installation of the new. However, knowing what to expect and requesting a few considerations from your siding contractor can keep problems and clutter to a minimum.

The Length Of Time For Installation Can Vary

While siding contractors should always give you an estimate as to how long the installation will take, this is just an approximation. If you have a few days of bad weather or the work crew loses a member due to illness, a day or two more may be needed. In general, however, it should take one or two days to remove any old vinyl, then anywhere from 2 - 5 days to install the new vinyl. Installing fiber cement can take longer because the planks are stiffer, and the installation process is a bit more complex. Be sure to ask your contractors for a written estimate of the time needed and stress that you don't want them to do part of the job, leave and do another job for a few days, then come back to your house. If you are under a time constraint, put it in writing.

Installation Creates Debris

There's no way around it - installation creates a mess. When the old materials are removed, the contractors will either stack them on your property until they can have them hauled away, or they'll have a dumpster that will remain on or near your property until the job is done so that they can dispose of all debris at once. Some installers haul away debris in pickup trucks at the end of each day. If you have concerns about the grass being killed, access to certain areas of your property, complaints from neighbors, or anything else, talk to the head of the work crew and make sure he knows how to proceed. Good contractors do everything they can to make the mess discreet and safe.

New Siding Takes Up Space

Your siding contractors will probably have your new vinyl or fiber cement materials delivered to your property on the first day. Be sure you have a large enough area in your yard or garage where the installation crew can store the new materials and easily access them. Remember that any materials left on your property overnight (which is almost always the case) will be your responsibility when the contractors go home each night. Covering the materials with a tarp or storing them in your backyard rather than the front will minimize the theft risk.

Ask About Toilet Facilities

A surprising number of homeowners never think about whether the siding contractors working for 8-10 hours each day will need toilet facilities. If you don't want workers coming in and out of your house, ask about the company's policies and whether they will provide a portable toilet for their crew on-site.

Please make Sure They Clean Up After The Work Is Done.

Hauling off the scrap and debris in a dumpster or truck is part of the process. Siding contractors should also wipe down anything they got dirty during installation, including outdoor fixtures, lighting, and rails. They should drag a specially designed magnet over your entire lawn and driveway to ensure no nails, clamps, or other loose items are hiding in the grass waiting for someone to step on them.

Although installing siding can be stressful, the results should make it worth the few days of dust and debris you'll have to put up with.