Indianapolis Siding Contractors Indianapolis, IN

Exterior experts set expectations for new siding

Brett Schubert, managing partner, Side FX, Indianapolis, getfibercement.com
Steven Smalley, owner, Exterior Home Improvement, Indianapolis, ehimp.com
Mike Dittmer, owner, Aztec Homes Inc./Fiber Cement Siding, Zionsville, Ind., aztecsiding.com

What's the best siding for durability and appearance?

Schubert: Fiber cement siding is the hands down winner, because it has the durability of cement. It also has a 50-year warranty and holds paint for 10 to 15 years.

Smalley: We do a product called Revolution, which is vinyl and recycled wood content. It's durable and energy efficient. We also do Mastic vinyl siding, which is insulated.

Dittmer: Fiber cement. It resists fire, insects, hail damage and rotting caused by moisture, and it holds paint five times longer than wood siding.

What are my insulation options?

Schubert: We install a house wrap, which reduces wind and moisture infiltration.

Smalley: We offer batt and blown-in insulation.

Dittmer: We can do both batt and blown-in insulation.

What's the average siding job cost?

Schubert: An average installation runs around $8,000 to $9,000, and the average home exterior is around 1,300 square feet.

Smalley: Revolution is around $11,000 to $12,000 and fiber cement is around $9,000. The average job takes about 2,000 square feet.

Dittmer: The average job range is from $5,000 to $10,000 for 1,000 to 1,500 square feet of material.

How long does it take?

Schubert: Two weeks from start to finish.

Smalley: One week with good weather.

Dittmer: Three to five days.

What other components should a homeowner consider replacing during siding work?

Schubert: For a lot of our jobs, we'll also install things like new gutters, windows and window elements to give the home a new appearance. We can also suggest new paint themes.

Smalley: You want to look at replacing trim work like overhangs or soffitts. It's also a good time to repair or replace windows.

Dittmer: We'll do a complete trim assessment. It's a great time to redo your roof, install new gutters and update your paint.

How do I maintain my new siding?

Schubert: For vinyl or fiber cement, you just power wash it every three or four years.

Smalley: Just hose it down; never use any abrasive cleaners or methods.

Dittmer: It never hurts to get it power washed at least every two years.