What’s the best time of year for siding replacement?

While the holidays are the "most wonderful time of the year", and summer brings a carefree spirit and sunshine with it, it's much harder to pinpoint the best time of year for a siding replacement project.

The good news is that most types of siding can be installed any time of year — even in the dead of winter. However, depending on the type of siding you choose and where you live, each season has pros and cons. Expert installers will know the siding materials inside and out, and they'll be able to account for how different types of siding behave in varying climates.

Let's explore four different factors that might impact when the best time is for you to re-side and how to select a new siding that will last for years to come.

4 THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING A TIME OF YEAR FOR YOUR SIDING REPLACEMENT

If you're embarking on a siding replacement project, deciding when to start involves more than just looking at the calendar. Mull over the following factors when selecting a date for your re-side.

1. Contractor Availability

In northern climates, the busy season for contractors usually runs from May to September, when the mild weather makes it easier for exterior work to run smoothly. Whether homeowners want their homes to look picture-perfect for the summer season, or they're seeking to knock out big projects before winter weather hits, demand is high. Summer is a contractor's favorite time to work, too, as they're better staffed and working in safer weather conditions.

If you're set on booking a certain contractor in the summer months, book early. While some contractors only need a few weeks' notice, sometimes a lead time of three to four months is necessary if you want to secure your ideal dates.

When you're ready to source a contractor for your re-siding project, our James Hardie™ ALLIANCE is a great way to find professional contractors in your area.

2. Local Weather and Its Impact on Your Siding Project

While siding can be installed at any time of year, be sure to consider your local weather before you select a date. Although summer is a popular time for most of the U.S., extreme heat and humidity in the Southeast could lead to complications. Extreme weather, such as tornado season in the Midwest, could also cause potential disruptions in an exterior siding project for the crew's safety.

If you live in an area that experiences extreme heat in the summer, intense cold in the winter, or has seasons that are prone to high winds, hurricanes, or thunderstorms, it could lead to work delays.

Especially if you face extreme weather events frequently, you'll want to ensure that you're installing siding that has year-round performance. Hardie® siding's durability has been proven for decades, standing up to Mother Nature through storms, fires, pests, and time.

3. Your Schedule and Needs

A re-siding project can be a major disruption to your day-to-day life. While the end product is well worth it, there may be days or weeks when part of your yard is off limits and your home's curb appeal is virtually nonexistent. If you have kids or pets, you'll want to think about the best time to give up your backyard for a short period. If you have an outdoor event planned, such as a birthday party or a summer barbecue, you'll want to ensure you have plenty of time for the re-siding project to be completed before the big day.

Don't forget to consider any unforeseen delays, too. Even if your contractor estimates the project will take one week, weather conditions, supply chain issues, unknown structural issues, or labor shortages could all impact the timeline.

4. Your Motivation for Re-siding

Why are you doing a siding replacement? If you've decided it's time to replace your siding due to excessive water damage or warped or rotted siding, you likely have less flexibility for starting your exterior project. Color fading or a missing shingle or two won't impact your home long term. However, issues like significant pest damage could potentially lead to more expensive repairs if left unaddressed for too long.

However, if you're re-siding to upgrade to a siding material with lifetime value or you want to achieve your dream home aesthetic with the perfect color and style, you have more freedom to choose a date that works best for you and your family.

Now Is the Time: Get Started on Your Siding Replacement

Hopefully, you're now a little bit closer to setting a target date for your re-siding project. As you schedule your siding replacement project, remember there's no one-size-fits-all answer for the best time of year to re-side. By carefully considering factors like contractor availability, local weather conditions, your schedule, and your motivation for re-siding, you can choose a time that fits your needs and priorities. Whether you're aiming for a summer refresh or tackling necessary repairs, now is the time to take the first step toward enhancing your home's durability and curb appeal with a siding upgrade.

When you're ready to start re-siding, look no further than James Hardie’s complete collection of durable siding and trim solutions. Hardie® fiber cement siding is available in a variety of colors and styles, and 91% of builders agree that fiber cement siding will also increase your home's value.

Download the James Hardie Inspiration Guide today to see how fiber cement siding could be the cherry on top of your siding replacement project!