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Household
Hints & HELP!
Choosing
New Siding
submitted
by Lorene Bartos, Extension Educator
This article appeared in the July 14,
2003 Lincoln Journal Star Newspaper.
Does
your house need a facelift? New siding on a home can reduce
maintenance, improve appearance and insulation, protect
from weathering, blend additions and increase value. It
also can reduce the value of a home if it doesn't preserve
the architectural integrity or historic value of the house.
New
siding is a major investment. A reputable dealer is an important
part of the selection process. Be sure to evaluate all options
such as why it's needed, affordability and whether to hire
a professional to install it. Selecting siding for your
house is like choosing any item with many choices. There
are many lines of siding to choose between. Siding must
be durably attractive and affordable. At first it may seem
color is the most important choice to make. Other important
aspects to consider include style, performance, value, gauge,
grain and profile.
Evaluate
the different types of siding available. Five common types
are aluminum, steel, vinyl, wood and hardboard. The choice
will depend on cost, the amount of maintenance desired,
style, design and condition of the house, what is available
in the area and personal preference.
Gather
competitive estimates from contractors who will do quality
work. Ask whether the cost includes preparation, such as
removing old siding and cleanup. Ask for names of former
customers to see past work and interview them about their
experience with the contractor. Choose a contractor with
experience, and call the Better Business Bureau to make
sure there are no unresolved problems with past clients.
Compare
the warranty on the siding and on the surface paint or coating.
They may be different. Make sure the contract for the work
includes a guarantee on the work, a lien agreement, a completion
date and a payment schedule. Do not attempt to install the
siding yourself unless you have the skills, tools and time.
If not installed correctly, maintenance problems may develop.
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