Siding replacement is a great way to give your home a facelift while improving its energy performance. Projects require careful planning, however, especially when working with older homes. Old construction often hides problems under the surface that can complicate your installation.
New Jersey Siding & Windows, Inc., offers siding replacement and other home improvement services throughout northern New Jersey. Learn more about siding replacement in Passaic County, NJ, and how to prepare for renovations on an old home.
Key Takeaways
- Older homes often hide moisture problems, insects, inadequate weather protection, or a sunken frame underneath the siding.
- Moisture damage, rotten wood, and pest damage need to be addressed before new siding can be installed on your home.
- Before planning your siding installation project, hire a siding contractor to inspect your home and identify potential issues beneath the surface.
- Our experienced siding installation team will repair existing issues with your walls while helping to protect them against future damage.
Why Do Older Homes in Passaic County Need a Different Siding Approach?
Siding replacement is never a project for an amateur. When working with old home construction, however, you may face additional challenges that aren’t a problem with newer homes. For example, old homes have had longer to develop moisture and pest issues underneath the siding. You may tear off the existing material to find damp spots, rotten wood, or damaged insulation. These issues need to be addressed before the new siding can be installed.
Older construction also uses different assembly techniques than new frames. Many old homes lack house wraps or flashing, for example. A modern weather-resistant barrier should be installed to protect your house frame and prevent future leaks. If the frame has settled and warped, then you may also need corrective strips for a flush installation.
What Issues Should You Look for Before Replacing Siding?
You can’t examine your older home’s framing and wall assembly without tearing off the old siding. Fortunately, there are ways to check for a problem before the installation begins. The following signs indicate potential moisture or decay issues underneath the siding’s surface:
- Warped or buckling siding panels
- Green, gray, or black streaks near windows and corners
- Areas of siding that feel spongy or soft when pressed
- Damp or musty odors that come from exterior walls
- Loose trim or flashing around windows
If you aren’t certain whether your walls are in good condition under the siding, then you can speak with a siding contractor about getting an inspection. The contractors at New Jersey Siding & Windows, Inc., have experience with siding evaluations and can identify issues that might complicate your installation.
What Siding Styles Are Best for Older Homes?
When renovating older construction, you also need to choose the right siding style. Dated construction can often benefit from contemporary designs to bring it into the 21st century. Modernize your home with one of the following options:
- Clapboard
- Panel
On the other hand, you may want to preserve your home’s historic character. If so, then you should choose an older style of siding that suits the construction. We suggest:
- Board and batten
- Vinyl shake
No matter what style you choose, make sure to hire an experienced siding contractor for installation. A seasoned installer will complete the job to a higher standard, ensuring that it looks great and will protect your home for years to come.
Find Expert Replacement Siding Services Near You in Passaic County, New Jersey
When planning a siding replacement in Passaic County, NJ, it’s important to know what issues your older home might face. New Jersey Siding & Windows, Inc., is an experienced team of siding contractors who can address underlying issues while protecting your home against future damage. Contact us to learn more about siding replacements, our service areas, or to request a quote for your project in New Jersey.
Siding Replacement FAQ
What siding challenges are common in older Passaic County homes?
Older Passaic County, NJ, homes often experience moisture or pest damage underneath the siding. They may lack adequate weather protection, and they may have warped or settled frames that make proper siding installation a challenge.
What hidden issues should be checked before siding replacement?
Before replacing the siding on your older home, check for moisture issues, inadequate sheathing, and gaps in the insulation. These need to be addressed before new siding can be installed.
Can new siding protect my older home?
Yes, installing new house siding is a good opportunity to address existing issues while protecting your older home against pests and the weather. Your siding installer can install new weather wrapping and ensure a watertight finish for long-term protection.
Which siding choices work best for older housing stock?
When choosing siding for an older house, consider what style looks best. Contemporary styles such as clapboard and panel can give dated construction a contemporary look. Board-and-batten or shake, meanwhile, can preserve your home’s original character.
Should I DIY siding installation on my older home?
Siding installation is never a DIY-friendly project. Minor errors in your installation can leave your home vulnerable to moisture or ruin your brand-new siding with the next windstorm. In addition, older homes come with extra challenges to complicate your installation. When you trust the professionals, you ensure that the job is done correctly for attractive and long-lasting results.
