Replacing your old siding with durable fiber cement is a significant upgrade for your Southwest Washington home. Understanding the process—from the initial estimate to the final inspection—ensures a smooth project. Exterior Home Solutions manages every detail of your fiber cement siding installation across Clark County, ensuring efficiency, quality, and minimal disruption to your daily life.
Phase 1: Planning and Pre-Installation
A great installation starts long before the first piece of old siding comes off:
Detailed Planning: We take precise measurements and finalize product and color selections. Fiber cement requires accurate calculations to minimize waste and ensure a perfect fit.
Permitting: We handle all necessary Clark County or city permits. Siding replacement is a major exterior change and requires proper sign-off to ensure compliance with local building codes.
Site Preparation: Before the crew arrives, we advise homeowners to remove personal items from the home’s exterior and clear a path for material delivery. On installation day, we secure landscaping and utilities.
Phase 2: The Installation Process
This phase typically takes several days to a week, depending on the size and complexity of your home.
1. Removal of Old Siding
The existing siding is completely removed down to the sheathing. This is a vital step—unlike a repair, full replacement allows us to inspect the sheathing for any hidden moisture damage or rot that is common in the PNW climate.
2. Weather Barrier Installation
A new, high-quality weather resistive barrier (house wrap) is meticulously installed over the sheathing. This is the primary defense against water intrusion and is critical for the long-term performance of your fiber cement siding.
3. Flashing and Trim Work
We install all window, door, and corner trim, ensuring proper drip caps and flashing are in place. This detail work is essential to prevent water penetration at vulnerable seams and is key to validating the manufacturer warranty.
4. Fiber Cement Siding Installation
The fiber cement planks are measured, cut (using specialized, dust-controlled tools), and fastened according to strict manufacturer guidelines. Proper gapping and nailing ensure the material remains stable and weatherproof throughout its long life.
Phase 3: Finishing and Final Inspection
Sealing and Painting (if applicable): Joints and trim boards are sealed with a high-quality, flexible sealant. If you chose primed siding, the final painting is completed.
Meticulous Cleanup: We conduct a thorough cleanup, removing all scaffolding, scraps, and fasteners. Your property is returned to its original state.
Final Walkthrough: We conduct a walkthrough with you to ensure your complete satisfaction and provide all necessary warranty documentation.
Common Questions from SW Washington Homeowners
How long does a full fiber cement siding installation typically take?
For an average residential home in Vancouver, the process usually takes between 4 and 7 days, depending on the number of stories, architectural complexity, and weather conditions.
Will the installation crew protect my landscaping and property?
Yes. Protecting your home and yard is our priority. We use drop cloths, barriers, and careful work practices to minimize impact on plants, decks, and driveways.
Do I need to leave my home during the siding installation?
No, you can safely remain in your home. There will be noise, particularly during the demolition phase, but the home remains weather-tight and fully secured throughout the project.
Is fiber cement harder to install than vinyl siding?
Yes. Fiber cement is heavier and requires specialized tools and trained installers to handle and cut it properly. This is why choosing a specialized contractor, like Exterior Home Solutions, is crucial for a lasting, warranted installation.