DIY Siding Repair: When to Tackle It and When to Call a Pro

Siding is one of the most critical components of your home’s exterior. It defines the style and aesthetic while protecting your house from the elements. Whether your home features Hardie board siding, redwood beveled siding, or cedar siding, wear and tear is inevitable over time. But when should you handle repairs yourself, and when is it time to call a professional? In this blog, we’ll explore common siding issues, walk you through basic DIY repairs, and help you decide when it’s best to bring in the pros.

Types of Siding and Their Aesthetics

Before diving into repairs, it’s important to identify the type of siding you have. Here’s a breakdown of common siding materials and their visual appeal:

  • James Hardie Fiber Cement (HardiePanel, HardiePlank)
    Aesthetic: Sleek and modern, Hardie plank siding offers a variety of textures, from smooth to wood grain, making it perfect for homeowners looking for both durability and design flexibility.
  • Allura Fiber Cement
    Aesthetic: Clean, modern lines that mimic the look of wood, a favorite for contemporary homes.
  • LP SmartSide Engineered Wood
    Aesthetic: Rustic yet modern, this option provides the natural beauty of wood without the high maintenance of traditional wood siding.
  • Primed Beveled Redwood Siding
    Aesthetic: Warm, rustic, and natural, redwood beveled siding is perfect for homes in coastal or forested areas, offering a timeless wood appearance.
  • Western Red Cedar Siding (Primed, V-Rustic, Kiln-Dried)
    Aesthetic: Rich and rustic, cedar siding delivers a traditional look ideal for homeowners seeking a natural, classic aesthetic.

 

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Common Siding Issues: Can You Fix It Yourself?

If you’re a skilled DIYer, some minor siding repairs can be tackled easily. Here’s a look at common siding issues and whether they can be handled on your own or require a professional:

1. Minor Cracks or Holes

  • Fiber Cement (James Hardie, Allura): Small cracks or holes in Hardie siding can often be filled with a patching compound. Make sure to sand and repaint to maintain the weather resistance.
  • Wood (Redwood, Cedar): For minor cracks in redwood siding or cedar siding, wood filler works well. Sand the area and reseal or repaint to match the rest of the siding.
    DIY or Call a Pro?: DIY. These minor repairs are straightforward with the right tools and materials.

 

2. Loose or Warped Panels

  • Engineered Wood (LP SmartSide): Warped panels may occur due to improper installation or moisture issues. You can secure loose panels with nails or screws.
  • Wood (Redwood, Cedar): Warped wood siding panels will need to be replaced. Be sure to prime and seal new wood to prevent future warping.
    DIY or Call a Pro?: DIY for small sections. Call a pro if the warping is widespread or due to moisture behind the siding.

3. Rot or Insect Damage

  • Wood Siding (Redwood, Cedar): Rot or insect damage can seriously impact the structure of redwood siding or cedar siding. While small areas can be patched or replaced, extensive damage may require professional evaluation.
    DIY or Call a Pro?: Call a Pro. Rot and insect damage often go deeper than the surface and may require more complex repairs.

4. Water Damage or Mold

  • Fiber Cement & Engineered Wood: While fiber cement like Hardie board siding and engineered wood resist moisture, improper installation can lead to water infiltration and mold. In these cases, panels may need to be removed and reinstalled correctly.
    DIY or Call a Pro?: Call a Pro. Water damage behind siding can lead to costly repairs if not addressed promptly.

5. Fading or Peeling Paint

  • Fiber Cement (James Hardie): Hardie plank siding may fade or peel over time. Repainting is relatively easy, but use exterior-grade paint designed for fiber cement.
  • Wood Siding (Redwood, Cedar): Repainting or resealing redwood siding and cedar siding is crucial to maintaining its natural beauty and protection from the elements.
    DIY or Call a Pro?: DIY. Repainting is a straightforward task but may require professional help for large-scale jobs.

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When to Call a Professional Contractor

While many siding repairs are within reach for DIYers, certain situations call for professional expertise:

  • Extensive Damage: If large sections of your Hardie board siding, redwood beveled siding, or cedar siding are damaged, a professional can ensure the repairs are done correctly, preventing future issues.
  • Structural Concerns: If water or insect damage has reached the structure behind the siding, a professional inspection is essential.
  • Warranty Protection: For materials like Hardie siding or engineered wood, professional installation or repair may be required to keep the manufacturer’s warranty intact.

Questions to Ask a Contractor

When hiring a contractor for your siding repairs or replacement, be sure to ask these important questions:

  • Are you experienced with my specific siding type?
  • What materials do you recommend for my home’s location?
  • Do you prime and seal all cuts to prevent future water damage?
  • Will you maintain my siding’s warranty with proper installation?
  • Can you provide references from similar projects?
  • How will you handle any underlying moisture or structural issues discovered during repair?

Choosing the Right Siding for Your Home

If you’re considering replacing damaged siding or re-siding your home entirely, choosing the right material is key. Here’s a guide based on your home’s style and performance needs:

  • Modern Homes: Fiber cement, like Hardie plank siding or Allura, provides a sleek, low-maintenance look, perfect for homeowners seeking a modern aesthetic with maximum durability.
  • Rustic or Traditional Homes: For a warm, natural look, redwood siding or cedar siding is ideal. Though it requires more maintenance, its timeless beauty adds value and character to any home.
  • Budget-Friendly Options: LP SmartSide or primed pine siding delivers the appearance of wood with lower maintenance and cost, making them great options for homeowners on a budget.

Siding Performance and Warranties

Before making your decision, it’s important to understand the performance and warranties of the siding materials available:

  • James Hardie Fiber Cement: Fire-resistant and highly durable, this siding comes with a 30-year limited warranty.
  • Allura Fiber Cement: Offers similar durability to James Hardie with a 30-year warranty.
  • LP SmartSide Engineered Wood: Known for its impact resistance, this siding comes with a 50-year limited warranty.
  • Wood Siding (Redwood, Cedar): With regular maintenance, these natural materials can last 20-30 years. However, they require more frequent upkeep than fiber cement or engineered wood.

Call Ashby Lumber for Expert Advice and Quality Materials

At Ashby Lumber, we carry a wide selection of siding materials, including redwood siding, cedar siding, and Hardie board siding, to suit any project. Whether you’re tackling a DIY siding repair or looking to hire a professional, our knowledgeable team is here to help you find the perfect solution for your home.

Visit www.ashbylumber.com or stop by one of our Bay Area locations for expert advice and to explore our full range of siding products.

Don’t let minor siding problems escalate into costly repairs. Get ahead of the issue with quality materials and guidance from Ashby Lumber, and keep your home looking its best!