As a homeowner, investing in new siding is one of the most critical decisions you can make. Whether you’re looking for more curb appeal or resolving a problem, proper planning for the project will set your contractors up for success.
Getting prepared today can save you money in the future. So if you’re preparing for a James Hardie siding installation, here are a few tips for you to follow.
Learn About Local Building Codes
Whether you’re preparing for James Hardie siding or another quality brand, you can benefit from learning about local building codes. Some specific regulations and ordinances can affect your installation project.
Most certified contractors will already know applicable building codes. Still, it helps when homeowners understand the basics to help avoid issues in the future.
Failure to comply with local residential construction laws can leave you responsible for paying hefty fines or halting the project. Call a local siding professional who can help sort things out if you have any questions about building codes.
Hire a Professional Contractor
While some homeowners attempt the DIY method, we recommend leaving this job to the professionals. Do some research and ask around for referrals to find a contractor with a solid reputation. You’ll also want a contractor who is fully licensed and insured.
Many contractors will provide guarantees, warranties, and siding maintenance plans to keep your siding in good condition for years to come.
Consider Colors and Designs
Preparing for a James Hardie siding installation isn’t all about rules and regulations. You get to be creative and have fun with the design and color. James Hardie siding is available in many styles and finishes, so there is a design to match every aesthetic.
Whether you’re looking for a smooth or textured finish, there’s something for everyone.
Don’t forget about the color options! The James Hardie brand of siding has a wide variety of colors to choose from, including several shades of green and brown.
Preparing Your Home
Most of the time, contractors will not need access to the interior of your home unless there are structural issues. We recommend preparing for James Hardie siding installation by removing all outdoor furniture before your project begins. Fire pits, tables, and lawn chairs may get in the way of your contractor, creating unnecessary delays.
It’s also a good idea to trim any tree branches that can affect the replacement of your siding. Nothing should be leaning on the exterior walls of your home as it could interfere with the installation process.
Although contractors won’t likely be inside your home, there are necessary steps to prepare the inside of your home for a James Hardie installation. Begin by removing any picture frames or wall art to protect them from vibrations. Consider removing mirrors and any other decor that could become damaged during the process.
You’ll also want to make sure that outdoor power sources are available for use.
Preparing Your Pets
There’s really no way to prepare your pets for a siding installation. The best solution is to have them stay somewhere else during work hours – such as a nearby relative’s house. Pets may be fine to leave home alone if you think they’ll be able to remain calm with construction noise.
Preparing Your Children
Children love the outdoors. But during the project, they should stay indoors while work is being completed. Scaffolding and other worksite hazards are dangerous for children to be around.
Preparing for James Hardie Siding Installation: Scheduling
While every house is different, a typical project lasts between seven and fourteen days, with many factors influencing the time. Those factors include:
- Size of your home
- Prefinished siding vs. unfinished siding
- Unexpected repairs
- Weather
Like most home renovation projects, experts will recommend scheduling a siding installation project during the spring and fall. Temperatures are mild, making it easier to work outside.
However, this means there is a threat of a sudden springtime rainstorm that could delay some of the work. You can also anticipate downtime while you wait for building inspectors to complete their walk-through.
Unexpected Repairs
The best (and worst) time to find damaged parts of your home is after your old siding has been removed. You may think this is a problem, but it’s better to know now before installing the new siding.
There’s no way to know the extent of damage to the structure underneath without removing some of the current siding.
The best way to prepare for James Hardie siding installation is to ask your contractor what types of issues they’ve encountered in the past and how they communicate those problems to homeowners. From there, you’ll be able to determine the best resolution together.
James Hardie Installation Process
Before a project begins, many homeowners ask us what they should expect while preparing for James Hardie installation. Here’s a brief overview of the entire process:
Before Installation
A dumpster and your siding will be delivered about a day before your scheduled appointment. You may need to check with local regulations to ensure you don’t need a permit for the dumpster. The installation crew will want these items close to the site, but you may not want to block access to your driveway or garage.
During Installation
Once you’ve collaborated with your contractor to decide on colors and design, the team will arrive on your scheduled day and begin removing the old siding.
Then, a full inspection will be completed to ensure there are no signs of mold, water damage, termites, or other pests. If any issues are found, we’ll communicate what steps need to be taken before continuing the siding project.
Once necessary repairs are completed, we install a weather barrier to help protect your home from severe weather conditions. Finally, we’ll officially begin installing your James Hardie siding. You can rest assured that we are careful to install your siding correctly the first time.
Preparing for James Hardie Siding?
If you’re ready to upgrade the siding on your home, James Hardie siding is a quality choice for homeowners in the Delaware Valley. Contact Stucco Today for a quote and to review your options!
