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Many homeowners prefer siding to cover their home’s exterior due to its sleek and finished look, low maintenance cost, and lasting durability. Sadly, like many other home-related projects, many homeowners feel it is worth tackling. If you feel such a project is one to take upon yourself, the following bits of advice and warning are for you.

At Window World Twin Cities, our experienced siding installation team can help you achieve the beautiful exterior you’re hoping for, with professional expertise backing up every job. 

In this blog entry, we’ll talk about taking on your DIY siding project and breaking down some things that can go wrong when you do it yourself. 

The Pitfalls of DIY Projects

In the age of YouTube, the Internet offers a neverending library of DIY tutorials. However, some jobs are best left to professionals, especially when the consequences of a mistake can be quite costly. 

Here are a few ways a DIY siding approach can fall short of the quality you get with a professional installation:

DIY Installers May Damage Costly Materials

When installed correctly, vinyl siding can be an attractive option for many homes. When installed poorly, it is prone to cracks. Years of professional experience working with the material have taught me the best techniques for a good installation. 

Damage can arise from mishandling a material, but even nailing your siding too hard can cause headaches, resulting in wasted time and money trying to get the job done right.

Siding Should Match Your Climate

Budget should not be the sole consideration when choosing the right product. Siding needs can differ in hot, cold, and temperate climates. Minnesota experiences brutal winters in contrast with its often warm summer months. 

The harsh winter weather can be tough on your siding, and extreme temperature changes can also affect its performance. An experienced professional can help you choose the right siding for the job and understand how the weather will impact the need for siding repairs down the road.    

Poor Weather Planning

Alongside choosing the siding for your climate, you should never start a siding project without considering weather conditions, which can lead to subpar results. Rain, extreme heat, or cold can affect the adhesive properties of siding materials and may cause long-term issues.

A Novice Can Overlook Serious Problems

Even when a completed job looks perfect, it can still have problems that won’t be discovered immediately. If the fitment isn’t correct, moisture may accumulate under the vinyl, causing mold and wood to rot slowly over time. This can be especially dangerous as mold can be a health hazard and may not be discovered until the problem is out of control. 

Moldy and rotten wood hidden behind faulty vinyl installation can lead to costs far outweigh the savings you might have pocketed by doing it yourself.

Successful Installations Require Experience

Inexperienced installers have many opportunities to make mistakes that come with expensive consequences. Working in the industry, training as apprentices, and keeping up with suppliers and new products provide insight and experience that no typical homeowner can acquire in a few weekends.

Seasoned installers know how to overlap siding pieces so that they will stay together and provide protection from the elements. Even something as simple as how deep to drive the nails can make a crucial difference. 

Failing to use the proper techniques can result in cracking, warping, and siding falling completely off the house, all leading to unsightly home exteriors and possible insurance issues. 

Underestimating Preparation Time

One of the biggest mistakes in DIY siding projects is underestimating the time and effort required for proper preparation. Cleaning and priming surfaces are crucial steps many overlook, leading to poor adhesion and a less durable finish.

Using Inadequate Tools

Using incorrect or inadequate tools for the job is a common pitfall in DIY siding projects. Not only can this slow down your progress, but it can also affect the quality of your work, resulting in a less polished finish.

Skipping Safety Measures

Many DIY enthusiasts overlook essential safety measures. Not using proper safety gear or not being mindful of ladder placement and electrical lines can result in accidents, making the project not only challenging but also dangerous.

Ineffective Sealing

Another common mistake is improper seam and edge sealing. This can lead to moisture infiltration, damage to the siding and underlying structure, and cause mold and rot.

Simply put, too many hazards are associated with a job of this scale for amateurs.

Deciding If It’s the Right Time for New Siding

A professional siding installer can also help you determine if you need to replace or repair your siding. By hiring a professional siding installation contractor, you’ll get an expert opinion. The Window World team will help you identify visible signs indicating that your siding needs to be replaced, ensure you understand what’s required, and choose the best option for your situation. 

Other Reasons to Replace Your Siding

Even if your siding isn’t significantly damaged, many homes can greatly benefit from the cosmetic upgrade afforded by replacement siding. Replacing the siding on your home can create a completely new look. If you’re considering selling your home, this is a great way to add curb appeal and increase your return on investment. 

Aside from aesthetics, there’s also the advantage of energy efficiency. Choosing upgraded vinyl insulated siding adds an extra layer of protection, saving you money each month on your utility bills and increasing property value, making it a durable investment. 

Get Beautiful Twin Cities Siding From a Trusted Professional

If your home needs new siding, don’t reach for the hammer and nails; try to take on such a daunting project yourself. With the help of professionals, you’ll enjoy the peace of mind that comes with experience, certification, and a solid warranty. Visit our Window Showcase on the web to see the siding available for your home. 

Call our Window World Twin Cities siding installation contractors at 651.770.5570 or contact us online to get started on your new replacement siding project today.