Did you know that getting the siding replaced on your Pittsburgh home can cost up to $25,000? That’s a hefty sum, especially when your contractor is ripping you off. If it’s your first time getting your home’s siding replaced, there are a lot of things you need to know that may help you get an honest and affordable rate. 

In a city like Pittsburgh, where the weather can be unpredictable, it’s crucial to have reliable and durable siding for your home. Before you consider such a large-scale project, you must ensure your investment stands the test of time. Luckily, we’re here to tell you exactly what you need to know about siding replacement before getting started. 

We’ll delve into why you need siding replacement, different siding materials, and how to find the best siding contractor in Pittsburgh.

1. Why You Need Siding Replacement

Pittsburgh often has fluctuating temperatures and high humidity levels, which contributes greatly to the wear and tear of your home’s siding. You’ll find visible cracks, warping, fading, or signs of mold and rot. If that’s the case, you need to seek an urgent siding replacement. We also recommend evaluating the current siding material’s lifespan by researching the material type. Its current condition may be the result of Pittsburgh’s harsh winters, rainy seasons, and humid summers. But before you begin your siding replacement journey, it’s crucial to find the right Pittsburgh siding replacement contractor to do the job. 

2. Hiring the Right Contractor

Choosing the right contractor to replace the siding in your Pittsburgh home is crucial if you want to guarantee success and an affordable final rate. Don’t let a contractor charge you $25,000 for a simple replacement! Plus, it can also make a big difference in the quality of work and the longevity of materials. Look for contractors with a proven track record of successful siding installations in the Pittsburgh area, as they’ll be familiar with the challenges of the local climate. 

You can seek recommendations from friends or read online reviews to gauge their customer experience and take a look at their old work. Before you finalize your decision, make sure the contractor’s team is licensed and insured.

3. Types of Siding Material

As we mentioned, Pittsburgh weather can be pretty tough and unpredictable. You’ll need to decide on a siding material that’s durable and reliable enough to withstand such weather. Of course, your contractor will provide some advice on this topic, but doing your own research beforehand is the only way to make an informed decision about your home. 

While vinyl siding is affordable, it’s not durable enough for Pittsburgh homes. On the other hand, fiber cement is incredibly reliable but not as affordable. Metal siding, while affordable and durable, can be susceptible to dents in the long run. 

4. Siding Installation Process

Although you won’t be the one installing your home’s siding, it still helps to know exactly what you can expect from the installation process. This way, you can complete any preparatory steps before the contractor arrives and know when to expect the completion of your project. First, the contractor will remove the old siding. They’ll address rot, mold, water damage, or other underlying issues before continuing. Then, they’ll clean, level, and possibly insulate the new siding before installing it. Depending on the weather, this installation can take anywhere from some days to a couple of weeks. 

5. Permits and Regulations

It’s absolutely crucial to ensure your contractor has the permit to install siding in your home before you begin your project. Each state has different regulations for this process, but Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, requires a permit for siding replacement. The contractor is also required to adhere to local building codes related to fire resistance, insulation, weatherproofing, and material specifications. You can ease the burden on yourself by choosing a contractor knowledgeable in all such aspects of the process. They’ll take care of the permits and guarantee complete compliance at all times. 

6. Additional Considerations

Of course, you also need to consider other factors such as insulation, energy efficiency, and siding styles and colors. Since Pittsburgh has unreliable weather throughout the year, it can get unexpectedly cold. By getting insulated siding for your home, you can regulate indoor temperatures and reduce heating costs. You can further enhance your home’s thermal performance by exploring energy-efficient options, such as insulated vinyl or fiber cement. These will reduce your energy consumption by keeping your home insulated. Other than that, we recommend looking into various siding styles and colors to enhance your home’s curb appeal. 

7. Cost and Financing Options

Most importantly, you need to consider the costs of materials and installation before diving into a siding replacement project. The overall cost depends on the size of your home, the type of siding material chosen, labor expenses, and any additional features. Get multiple quotes from different contractors to find the most affordable rate for the highest quality. Remember: a good contractor won’t try to rip you off. You can also explore financing and payment options if you’re on a budget, as some contractors offer financing plans to make it easier. At the end of the day, quality is key, even if it means going slightly over budget. 

8. Maintenance and Longevity

The upfront cost of installation and materials isn’t the only amount you’ll be paying for your home’s siding. Over time, you’ll need to pay for maintenance runs as the Pittsburgh weather weighs on your siding. You may think maintenance is optional, but it’s the only way to make your siding last as long as it should. Remember to regularly check for cracks, peeling paint, or loose panels, and address issues promptly. Your contractor may also let you know about warranty information and coverage offered by siding material manufacturers, helping you make an informed decision. This way, you can have peace of mind and financial protection while they work on replacing your home’s siding.

Conclusion

Now that you know everything about getting siding replacements in Pittsburgh, you can hire the right contractor and get started on your project. The best way to make informed decisions about your home’s siding is to know all about the material choices, legal considerations, installation process, and other aspects. Remember, siding is much more about protecting your home than aesthetics and curb appeal. So, take your time, evaluate your options, and consult experts if needed.