Everything to Know Before Installing New Siding on Your Home
Upgrading your home's siding is one of the most transformative exterior renovations you can make.
It changes not only the look and feel of your property but also plays a major role in energy efficiency, weather protection, and long-term value. Yet for all its benefits, the process of choosing and installing new siding comes with a series of important decisions and logistics that homeowners must navigate. From understanding materials and costs to preparing your property and knowing what to expect during installation, there’s a lot to think about before the first panel goes up.
Before you move forward with new siding installation, you’ll want to understand the pros and cons of various siding types and how to prepare your home properly. You’ll also need to know which permits, inspections, or HOA approvals might be required, and how to confidently choose a contractor who’s right for the job. Lastly, it’s helpful to set expectations about what happens during and right after installation. Each of these topics plays a role in making your project a success.
With this guide, Siding Unlimited walks you through all your options to help you make informed, confident choices.
Comparing Popular Siding Materials: Cost, Durability & Maintenance
Choosing the right siding material requires balancing upfront costs, long-term durability, and required maintenance.
Common materials include vinyl, fiber cement, engineered wood, metal, and natural wood. Vinyl siding remains one of the most popular due to its affordability and minimal upkeep. It typically ranges from $3 to $8 per square foot and can last 20 to 40 years. Fiber cement, such as James Hardie siding, costs more—about $5 to $13 per square foot—but offers exceptional durability, fire resistance, and resistance to insects and rot.
Engineered wood siding, like LP SmartSide, is designed to mimic the look of natural wood but with improved resistance to moisture and decay. It’s slightly more expensive than vinyl but easier to install than fiber cement. Natural wood siding offers premium aesthetics but comes with high maintenance and potential susceptibility to pests. Metal siding, such as steel or aluminum, is strong and fire-resistant, but it can dent easily and may not suit all architectural styles.
Maintenance varies significantly between materials. Vinyl and engineered wood require only occasional washing, while fiber cement needs repainting every 10 to 15 years. Natural wood demands regular sealing or staining to prevent decay. The right material depends on your local climate, budget, and willingness to maintain your siding.
For a balance of style and low upkeep, many homeowners explore board and batten siding, which blends modern design with durable performance.
How to Prepare Your Home and Property Before Siding Installation Begins
Proper preparation ensures a smoother siding installation process and helps protect your home and belongings.
Start by clearing the perimeter of your home. Move lawn furniture, grills, potted plants, and garden tools at least 10–15 feet away from the walls. This gives workers adequate space and minimizes the risk of damage. You should also trim any nearby shrubs or branches that may obstruct access to the siding area.
Inside your home, remove hanging objects from walls—vibrations from the work can knock them down. Secure any loose wall items and consider covering items in your attic or garage to prevent dust from settling. If you have exterior lighting fixtures, outlets, or mounted decorations, consult your contractor to determine if these need to be temporarily removed or protected.
Communication with your siding contractor is key. Discuss staging areas for materials, dumpster placement, and property protection measures. Some siding contractors may request that homeowners turn off outdoor water spigots or electrical systems for safety. With thorough prep work and proper coordination, your siding installation will proceed more efficiently and reduce the risk of accidents or delays.
Understanding Permits, Inspections, and HOA Approvals for Siding Projects
Before any siding installation project begins, homeowners should check with local building departments to confirm if a permit is required.
In most cities and counties, siding replacement is considered a structural alteration and does require a permit, especially when the underlayment or sheathing is also being replaced. A building permit ensures that the work meets all local codes for energy efficiency, fire resistance, and structural integrity.
In addition to obtaining a permit, an inspection may be required once the siding is installed. Inspectors will review flashing, insulation wrap, fasteners, and finish work to ensure compliance. Skipping this step can result in penalties or complications during resale. Be sure to budget time into your project schedule for both permit approval and final inspection.
If your home is governed by a homeowners association (HOA), approval is typically required before any exterior changes can be made. Most HOAs have design review boards and specific material and color guidelines. Submitting a formal application, material samples, and a project timeline is usually necessary. Failing to do so can result in costly fines or forced removal of non-compliant siding. Always confirm these requirements well in advance of installation.
How to Choose the Right Siding Contractor and Evaluate Their Estimates
Selecting a qualified siding contractor is critical to the success of your installation.
Start by researching local companies with strong reputations and experience installing the specific siding materials you’re considering. Look for contractors who are licensed, bonded, and insured. Online reviews, testimonials, and Better Business Bureau ratings can also provide insight into a company’s reliability and service quality. Ask to see examples of recent projects or request references.
When reviewing estimates, be wary of unusually low bids—they may indicate corner-cutting or lack of proper insurance. A detailed proposal should outline materials, labor, timeline, warranty information, and contingencies for unexpected issues such as hidden water damage. It's also important to clarify whether the estimate includes removal and disposal of old siding, clean-up, and permit fees.
Request at least three estimates to get a clear picture of pricing and service offerings. Comparing line items side-by-side can reveal differences in material grades, labor scope, and warranty coverage. A contractor who provides transparent documentation, is responsive to questions, and demonstrates a clear understanding of local codes is more likely to deliver a quality siding installation. Investing time in this process helps prevent miscommunication and ensures a smoother experience.
What to Expect During Siding Installation and After Project Completion
The siding installation process typically begins with a thorough inspection of your home’s exterior. Contractors remove old siding and assess the condition of the sheathing and framing. Any damage or mold is repaired before installing a weather-resistant barrier such as house wrap. New siding is then installed, starting from the bottom up, with precise alignment and secure fastening at every stage.
Depending on your home’s size and the material used, installation can take anywhere from a few days to over a week. During this time, expect construction noise, debris, and limited access to certain areas around your home. Most professional crews clean up daily, but a final site cleanup and haul-away typically occur at the end. Once installed, a walkthrough should be performed to inspect for defects, alignment issues, or caulking inconsistencies.
After completion, you should receive a warranty for both materials and labor. Take time to review any care or maintenance instructions provided by the contractor. Inspect your home’s exterior again a few days after completion to ensure no issues have developed as materials settle. If issues arise, contact the contractor promptly while the project is still fresh. Proper post-installation follow-up helps protect your investment and guarantees long-term satisfaction.
Trust Siding Unlimited to Guide Your Siding Project from Start to Finish
New siding is a significant investment that impacts your home’s appearance, energy efficiency, and structural protection. At Siding Unlimited, we help homeowners make confident decisions at every stage of the siding process.
Our team walks you through material options, property preparation, permit requirements, HOA compliance, contractor selection, and the full installation timeline. With decades of hands-on experience and deep knowledge of local building codes and climate considerations, we deliver accurate guidance and high-quality results every time.
Whether you're interested in the modern appeal of board and batten, want to explore energy-efficient materials, or need help navigating inspection requirements, our team is here to help. We provide clear communication, expert installation, and dependable project oversight from start to finish.
Siding Unlimited proudly serves homeowners throughout the region and has built a strong reputation for quality and reliability. If you're ready to start your siding project or want expert answers to your questions, call us at 651-681-5000 or request a free estimate to get started.