When it comes to maintaining your homeโs exterior, the material of your siding plays a pivotal role in both aesthetics and functionality. Wood siding, while classically beautiful, can require frequent maintenance and is vulnerable to damage over time.
If youโre contemplating replacing wood siding with a more durable material, steel siding presents a compelling alternative. This blog will guide you through the process and explain why switching to steel can be a beneficial decision and a great wood siding replacement option.
Why Replace Wood Siding with Steel?
- Durability and Maintenance: Wood siding is susceptible to various forms of damage, including rot, insect infestation, and warping due to weather exposure. It requires regular maintenance such as painting or staining to keep it protected and looking fresh. Steel siding, on the other hand, offers exceptional durability. It is rot-resistant, doesnโt succumb to pest problems, and doesnโt require frequent paint or stain applications.
- Cost-Effectiveness: While the initial cost of steel siding can be higher than some wood siding options, the long-term savings are significant. Steel siding does not need the same level of upkeep as wood, saving you money on paint, stain, and repairs due to weather or pest damage.
- Aesthetic Flexibility: Modern steel siding comes in a variety of styles, including board and batten, log cabin, and shingles, allowing you to maintain the traditional appearance of wood if desired. It also holds paint well, meaning your chosen color will stay vibrant longer without the need for retouching.
How to Replace Wood Siding with Steel
Step 1: Assess the Existing Siding
Before you begin the replacement process, itโs crucial to assess the condition of the existing wood siding. Check for signs of rotten wood siding, damaged wood siding, or any other structural issues. This assessment will help determine the extent of work needed.
Step 2: Remove the Old Siding
Using a pry bar and utility knife, carefully remove the old wood siding. Be mindful to avoid damaging the underlying structure and insulation. This step requires patience and precision, especially if the existing siding is severely damaged.
Step 3: Prepare the Surface
Once the old siding is removed, prepare the surface by ensuring it is smooth, clean, and free of any debris or protruding nails. Any signs of rot or damage in the sheathing should be repaired before proceeding.
Step 4: Install the Steel Siding
Begin the installation of your new steel siding from the bottom up. Align each panel precisely and secure them into place according to the manufacturerโs instructions. Steel siding often comes with interlocking panels that help streamline the installation process.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
After the panels are installed, itโs important to add any trim pieces around windows, doors, and corners to give your home a finished look. These details not only enhance curb appeal but also ensure that the siding is sealed and weatherproof.
Step 6: Enjoy Low Maintenance Living
With your new steel siding in place, you can enjoy a low maintenance yet aesthetically pleasing exterior. Steel sidingโs rot-resistant and weather-resistant properties make it an excellent investment for any homeowner.
The Bottom Line
Replacing wood siding on a house with steel is a smart upgrade that can enhance your homeโs durability, reduce maintenance costs, and improve overall curb appeal. Whether youโre tired of the constant upkeep required by wood siding or youโre looking for a long-term solution to protect your homeโs exterior, steel siding offers a robust and attractive alternative. Embrace the change and give your home the lasting durability it deserves with steel siding.