The roofing industry has changed quite a lot over the years. These days, homeowners are rarely opting for the standard, 3-tab shingles that were so popular a few decades ago. Instead, they are going with architectural shingles, and in some cases, with even more eco-friendly options like green roofing or slate. Whether you're shopping around for a new roof or are thinking of having repairs made to your current roof, it pays to be educated. Learn the basics on this blog, where we discuss roofing in the modern world. We explore various roofing materials, roofing techniques, and how to find the right roofer.
If your siding is on its way out, you may choose to replace the panels yourself before they fall off your house. Although it may seem like a good idea at first, replacing your siding yourself may not be a DIY project you want to undertake right now. There are specific details or things you must include in the installation for it to be successful. If you do something incorrectly, your siding panels could have problems later. Here are things you don't want to do when you install siding.
What Might You Do Incorrectly?
Siding can be a wonderful and long-lasting edition to almost any home. But in order for siding panels to last a long time, you must fasten them to your home properly. If you fasten or nail the panels to your home too tightly, the panels may crackle, pop, or make some other unnatural sound after installation.
Noise and strange sounds aren't the only issues you might face during your installation. There should also be some leeway or movement between each panel. If the panels don't move at least 1/4 inches back or forth, the siding might not have enough room to expand during heat and cold weather. The panels may crack or tear under pressure if they can't move properly or freely. You may need to replace the panels again in the future.
If you want to prevent your new siding from experiencing the issues above, talk to a roofer.
What Might a Roofer Do?
If you already fastened panels to your home, a roofer will need to remove them before they complete the project. A roofer may also see if there's a moisture barrier on your home. A moisture barrier not only prevents water from penetrating your home's walls when it rains, but it also limits the amount of air that passes into the home.
Along with the requirements above, a contractor may ask if you wish to install insulation beneath your siding panels and moisture barrier. Insulation reduces noise and movement in your siding panels and minimizes heat and cold loss in your house. If you choose to not insulate your house, a roofer may provide other options for you instead.
You want to take extraordinary care of your siding after a contractor installs it. Even new siding can become damaged if it's exposed to hail and other hard objects. If you find noticeable problems in your siding panels, contact a roofer for additional repairs.
If you want to install or replace siding panels on your house, call and schedule an appointment with a siding replacement contractor today.