You’ve decided your home needs new siding. Now what? Overseeing the process can be stressful, especially when you’re not sure what needs to be done.

Take a look at our four big ways siding installations can go wrong and see how siding contractors in Portland can help you!

1. Using Cheap Material

All siding is not created equal, and, generally speaking, you should go with the nicest variety you can afford. Cladding that resists wet weather and has a long lifespan can save you money, even if it’s more upfront.

Be honest with your siding contractor in Portland about your budget. They’ll likely have several varieties that work for you.

2. Using Inexperienced Installers (Including Yourself)

Siding contractors in Portland are a dime a dozen - while many of them are great, others are far from it. At a minimum, your contractor should be licensed, bonded, and insured. This will protect you if something goes wrong on the job.

You should also check out the reviews for Portland siding contractors on third-party sites like the BBB or Yelp. If you know they’ve worked on a house in your neighborhood, check out how the finished job looks!

You may be tempted to DIY your installation, but you really shouldn’t if you’re not a Portland siding contractor yourself. A small mistake in the installation can lead to pests or water in the house. An incorrect installation also won’t be eligible for any material warranty your cladding may offer.

3. Using Too Many (or Too Few) Nails

Too few nails on a board? It’ll sag in the summer and can be lifted off by the wind. Too many nails? The siding can’t properly expand and contract with the weather, which could lead to cracks and material failure.

Nail heads also shouldn’t be visible. The reason’s not just cosmetic - visible nail heads can trap water inside the nail hole, leading to mold and rot.

Siding installation looks simple, but something like nail technique can still go wrong in many different ways. That’s why it’s so important to pick the right Portland siding company.

4. Skipping the Underlayment

Underlayment is a thin, flexible, weather-resistant sheet that goes on your home before the cladding. “If I pick high-quality cladding and it’s installed well,” you may think, “do I really need underlayment?”

If you’ve ever gone on a winter hike or skied, you know how important a base layer can be. Something like a long undershirt serves as a last defense against snow and water that gets in your jacket. It also wicks away the hot air and sweat from your skin so that moisture doesn’t turn into ice.

The same is true for your house - it needs to vent hot air from the interior in the winter, and it’s nice to have another layer of protection from the weather. Quality Portland siding contractors know not to skip the underlayment.

How to Ensure a Great Siding Replacement

Going with an experienced siding contractor in Portland is key to a successful installation. When you hire quality contractors, you can expect a quality product – book an inspection today.