Updating your home's exterior with new siding is one of the quickest ways to enhance its curb appeal, protect it from the elements, and increase its value. At Huskie Exteriors, we're dedicated to helping homeowners in Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin choose the perfect siding for their needs. With over 60 years of experience in exterior remodeling, we specialize in high-quality installations using trusted brands like CertainTeed, Westlake Royal, Ply Gem, and Norandex. This guide covers key tips for selecting siding, details on the types we offer—including vinyl, fiber cement, LP SmartSide, aluminum, and wood—and advice on maintenance and installation. Whether you're dealing with harsh Midwest winters or simply refreshing your home's look, our experts are here to guide you every step of the way.
10 Tips to Pick the Right Siding
Choosing siding can feel overwhelming with so many options available. Here are some practical tips from our team at Huskie Exteriors to make the process easier:
Observe Your Neighborhood: Look at nearby homes for inspiration. Consider local HOA rules or architectural styles common in Illinois and Wisconsin to ensure your choice fits in while standing out.
Bring Samples: If replacing existing siding, bring a sample to our team. We can match colors, textures, and materials precisely.
Assess Maintenance Needs: Think about your climate—harsh winters, rain, and wind in our region mean opting for durable, low-maintenance options like vinyl or fiber cement if you want to avoid frequent upkeep.
Set a Budget: Siding is priced per square foot, so measure your home's exterior (width x height per wall) and add 5-10% for waste. We offer free estimates and 0% financing to help.
Get Expert Input: Our specialists can recommend efficient, cost-effective alternatives based on your home's configuration and goals.
Involve Your Family: Discuss preferences with household members to ensure everyone loves the final look.
DIY vs. Professional: Simple vinyl might be DIY-friendly, but complex materials like fiber cement require pros. We recommend professional installation for best results and warranties.
Consider Home Layout: Uneven walls or large areas might need specific lengths (e.g., fiber cement panels up to 12 feet) to minimize seams.
Bring Photos: Share images of your desired style—we'll help match it with available products.
Plan for Extras: Factor in insulation, trim, and potential storm damage repairs. We provide comprehensive services to cover it all.
Vinyl Siding: What You Need to Know
Vinyl siding is a top choice for affordability and versatility, ideal for homes in Northern Illinois and Wisconsin where it withstands extreme weather. Made from durable PVC, it mimics wood grain and comes in a wide array of colors and styles from brands like CertainTeed, Westlake Royal, Ply Gem, and Norandex.
Pros:
Affordable and low-maintenance.
Resistant to rot, insects, moisture, and fading.
Improves energy efficiency with optional insulation.
Boosts curb appeal with customizable options.
Long-lasting with manufacturer warranties up to 50 years.
Cons:
Can crack in extreme cold if not properly installed.
Less premium feel compared to natural materials.
Maintenance Tips: Clean with a hose annually; no painting required. Inspect for damage after storms.
Installation Notes: Our process includes consultation, old siding removal, surface prep, insulation addition, precise fitting, and final inspection. Typically takes 1-2 weeks for an average home, with our 5-year workmanship warranty.
Fiber Cement Siding: What You Need to Know
Fiber cement siding, such as James Hardie or similar brands, is engineered from cement, sand, and cellulose fibers for superior durability. It's a popular upgrade for homes seeking a wood-like appearance without the upkeep.
Pros:
Highly resistant to fire, insects, rot, and extreme weather—perfect for Midwest climates.
Low-maintenance with realistic wood grain textures.
Energy-efficient and long-lasting (50+ year warranties).
Versatile styles like lap, shake, or panels.
Cons:
Heavier, requiring professional installation.
Higher upfront cost than vinyl.
Maintenance Tips: Occasional inspections for cracks; paint every 10-15 years if pre-finished. Wash with mild soap as needed.
Installation Notes: Involves careful handling due to weight; we ensure proper weatherproofing. Backed by our craftsmanship warranty.
LP SmartSide Siding: What You Need to Know
LP SmartSide is an engineered wood product treated with SmartGuard for enhanced protection, blending the beauty of wood with modern resilience. It's a type of composite siding we frequently install.
Pros:
Natural wood looks with superior moisture and pest resistance.
Durable against impacts and weather; 50-year warranty available.
Eco-friendly with sustainable materials.
Available in lap, panel, and trim options.
Cons:
Requires painting or staining periodically.
Slightly higher cost than basic vinyl.
Maintenance Tips: Clean regularly; repaint every 5-10 years to maintain protection.
Installation Notes: Similar to wood but easier due to pre-treatment; we handle precise cuts and sealing.
Aluminum Siding: What You Need to Know
Aluminum siding offers a lightweight, metal-based alternative that's rust-resistant and low-maintenance. It's less common today but great for specific applications.
Pros:
Lightweight and easy to install.
Resistant to rust, fire, and insects.
Recyclable and eco-friendly.
Low cost with good durability.
Cons:
Can dent from impacts.
May fade over time without coatings.
Noisier during rain or hail.
Maintenance Tips: Wash occasionally; repaint if needed for color refresh.
Installation Notes: Quick process; we ensure proper insulation underneath.
Wood Siding: What You Need to Know
Wood siding provides a timeless, natural aesthetic, available in styles like cedar shake, lap, or log. We offer options like cedar for rustic charm.
Pros:
Authentic, warm appearance that boosts curb appeal.
Customizable with stains or paints.
Good insulation when properly installed.
Renewable resource.
Cons:
Higher maintenance to prevent rot or pests.
Susceptible to weather damage without treatment.
More expensive upfront.
Maintenance Tips: Regular painting/staining every 3-5 years; inspect for moisture issues.
Installation Notes: Requires skilled handling to avoid warping; we recommend combining with modern underlayments.
Closing Advice
Selecting the right siding depends on your budget, style, and maintenance preferences. At Huskie Exteriors, we encourage comparing options and consulting our experts for personalized recommendations. We serve Rockford, IL, and surrounding areas in Northern Illinois and Wisconsin with free inspections, 5% discounts for first responders/veterans/seniors, and top-tier warranties. Contact us today at huskieexteriors.com or call for a free quote—let's transform your home!
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