What to Expect During Siding Installation

When it’s time for new siding, you want the process to go right—the first time. Homeowners worry about dust, delays, and a yard that looks like a storm rolled through. At Schaefer Exteriors, we understand. Siding is more than curb appeal; it’s protection for your investment and your family. Knowing what to expect makes the journey smoother and less stressful.

Our team has installed siding on hundreds of homes, from classic vinyl jobs to complex fiber cement projects. Here’s a homeowner’s guide to each step, so you can prep your property and your peace of mind.

Before We Arrive: How to Prepare Your Home

There’s no need to roll out a red carpet, but a little prep goes a long way. Move outdoor furniture, toys, potted plants, and grills a safe distance from your home’s walls. Take down pictures or shelves from exterior-facing walls—installation can cause vibrations, and you don’t want a favorite frame taking a tumble.

Plan for pets and kids, too. Construction zones and curious paws don’t mix. If you have special landscaping or delicate garden beds, let us know. We’ll flag them for extra care.

The First Step: Inspection and Siding Consultation 🧐

Every home is different. That’s why we start with a thorough inspection and a Siding Color Consultation near you if you need it. We’ll check for hidden damage, moisture issues, and ventilation needs. This is also when we double-check measurements and confirm your materials—be it fiber cement, vinyl, or another style. According to the International Residential Code (IRC), proper flashing and underlayment are non-negotiable, and we follow those guidelines closely.

Out With the Old: Removing Existing Siding

If your house already has siding, we’ll carefully remove it, section by section. This isn’t just about pulling panels. Our crews look for rot, mold, or pest damage beneath the surface. We set aside reusable trim and keep the site tidy as we go. The goal? No stray nails in the lawn and no surprises left behind.

Repairs and Prep Work: Building a Solid Foundation

Once the old siding is gone, we inspect the sheathing and framing. If we find any soft spots, water damage, or insulation gaps, we’ll fix them before moving forward. Think of this step as laying the foundation for a sturdy, weather-tight exterior. Quick fixes now prevent headaches down the road.

We also handle insulation installation—a step many skip but one that can boost comfort and energy savings year-round.

Underlayment and Weatherproofing: Shielding Your Home

Before a single siding panel goes up, we install house wrap or another approved underlayment. This barrier acts like a raincoat for your home, keeping out moisture and drafts. We flash windows and doors, seal seams, and make sure there’s nowhere for water to sneak in. It’s a detail you won’t see, but you’ll feel the difference every season.

The Main Event: Siding Material Installation

Now the transformation really begins. Whether you’ve chosen fiber cement, vinyl, or wood, our licensed installers work methodically, panel by panel. Each piece is measured, cut, and fastened with attention to alignment and manufacturer requirements. For fiber cement siding, we follow James Hardie’s guidelines and use specialized tools for dust control and precision.

Corners, edges, and transitions get special attention. We install trim and molding for a finished look. Vents and soffits are checked for proper airflow—a detail that helps prevent future rot or mold.

Siding Color and Finish: The Final Touches 🎨

Color matters—deeply. Our Siding Color Consultation ensures you get a palette that brings out your home’s personality. If painting is part of your plan, we use weather-resistant paints and apply them in optimal conditions for a vibrant, lasting finish.

Cleanliness Counts: Daily and Final Cleanup

No one likes a messy job site. At the end of each day, we tidy up—removing stray nails, debris, and tools. After installation, we sweep the area, use magnets to collect hidden metal fasteners, and haul away all trash and old siding. Your yard should look as fresh as your new siding.

Timeline: From Start to Finish

Most siding projects take a few days to a week, depending on your home’s size and the material chosen. Bad weather can slow things down, but we’ll keep you updated every step of the way. We know you have routines and responsibilities—our crews aim to finish on schedule, minimizing disruption.

Quality Control: How We Ensure Lasting Results 🛠️

Every project is checked by a site supervisor at multiple stages. We review installation against manufacturer specs and local building codes. If a detail isn’t right, we fix it before calling the job complete. We want your siding to look great and hold strong for years to come.

Safety Isn’t Optional—It’s Required

Construction has risks. Our installers use proper fall protection, eye and ear safety gear, and follow OSHA guidelines on every project. We’re licensed, insured, and trained in safe practices—so you don’t have to worry about accidents or liability.

What About Warranties?

We’ll walk you through your manufacturer’s warranty and Schaefer Exteriors’ warranty services before we leave. Save your paperwork. If you ever have a question, you’ll know exactly whom to call and what’s covered.

Tips for a Smooth Siding Installation

• Communicate any concerns or scheduling needs early.
• Make sure someone is available for key decisions, especially during material selection and color consultation.
• Ask for a daily progress update if you like staying in the loop.
• Protect valuables inside and outside your home.

When to Call for Emergency Siding Services

Storms, impact damage, or sudden leaks? Don’t wait—some issues can’t be put off. We offer emergency siding services to secure your home quickly until permanent repairs are made. Safety and weatherproofing come first.

Common Mistakes Homeowners Make (And How to Avoid Them)

• Waiting too long to address damaged siding—small leaks can become big repairs.
• Overlooking insulation and weatherproofing steps.
• Choosing color or materials without considering climate and sunlight exposure.
• Hiring unlicensed or uninsured installers.

Seasonal Considerations: Timing Your Project

Spring and fall are ideal for siding installation—mild temperatures help materials expand and contract less, for a snug fit. But with the right prep and planning, siding can go up almost any time of year.

FAQ: What Homeowners Ask Most

Will I need to leave my house?
No—most work is done outside, though there will be some noise and vibration.

Will my landscaping be safe?
We use drop cloths and protective barriers for delicate areas. Tell us where to be extra careful.

What if it rains?
We pause work during heavy rain and secure the site to keep your home dry.

How do I choose the right material?
We offer Siding Material Consultation to help you weigh pros, cons, and costs for fiber cement, vinyl, and more.

Why Homeowners Choose Schaefer Exteriors

From the first consultation to the final sweep, we treat your home like our own. Our licensed installers, commitment to safety, and attention to detail mean you can expect a smooth experience and a beautiful result. See how our siding services measure up.

If you’re in the area, learn more about our siding company and what makes us different.

Ready to take the next step? Call Schaefer Exteriors now — or reach us anytime at  877-331-5875 .