How Much Siding Do You Need?

How much siding do you need to purchase for your siding replacement project? You will need to measure the height and length of the wall to receive siding and multiply the numbers. If you’re planning on installing shingles, you will need an experienced contractor to do the calculations since the process gets rather complicated.

In this article, Hardie board specialist S.I.S. Exterior Renovations talks about the factors contractors consider when estimating the amount of siding you need.

Layout

While some panels of siding can be butted together, clapboards, Hardie Plank lap siding and other specially shaped panels require a more detailed layout since there is an overlap on these profiles. For example, the overlap should be a minimum of 1 ¼” to reduce the exposure for the panel. If you measure based on 6 ¼” wide planks, you will run short of product because 5” are exposed due to the 1 ¼” overlap.

Of course, no siding work can be completed without trim, which helps keep moisture and insects from compromising the structure. Trim can come in various materials such as fiber cement Hardie Trim or PVC and is usually ¾” or 1” thick. A 1/8” gap between the trim and the hardie siding planks should be left and caulked closed.

Installation

Since fiber cement is a heavy product, you will need at least two people to carry each strip. While it is extremely durable once installed, it is relatively fragile before installing, so the strips must be supported in the middle to prevent cracking. Cutting it is normally done using an electric saw, and the worker must wear a respirator to minimize exposure to fine silica.

It pays to have an experienced contractor to install your Hardie siding. To seal it, each edge that is cut should have a primer painted on it. To prevent rusting, stainless steel nails should be used. Joints and trim should also be caulked in a precise manner.

For top-quality exterior siding installation services in Calgary, AB, turn to S.I.S. Exterior Renovations. One of our trained professionals can walk you through all of your options and help you create the house of your dreams. Call us at (587) 417-6446 or fill out our convenient contact form to request a free consultation or estimate.