A: At Midwest Siding, we believe in doing the job right the first time, with integrity that homeowners deserve. Many companies may offer to install new siding over old siding as a quicker, seemingly cheaper option (not having to pay for removal labor and extra dumpster fees). However, we never take this shortcut. Why? Because covering up existing siding means we'd be sealing in potential problems like hidden rot, mold growth, warping, or pest infestations that can be invisible from the surface. This can lead to costly structural damage and health hazards down the road. Our commitment is to ensure your home's long-term health and protection. We always perform full siding removal to properly inspect the underlying structure, address any issues, and create a clean, stable foundation for your beautiful new exterior.

A: Our philosophy at Midwest Siding is simple: we provide the same level of care and protection for your home that we would want for our own families and friends here in Nebraska and Iowa. While vinyl siding is a common choice, we've found it simply doesn't offer the superior durability and long-term performance that homes in our region need. Ultimately, it’s not the best investment relative to its lifespan and home equity value.

Midwest weather can be incredibly harsh, with heavy rains, strong winds (including tornadoes), and brutal winter conditions. Vinyl siding is more prone to cracking, fading, and can become brittle in extreme temperatures. It also detaches from the home easier and can fly off during high winds.

We believe James Hardie fiber cement siding offers far greater resistance to impact, moisture, fire, and pests, ensuring your home is truly protected against everything our local climate can dish out. We focus on premium, long-lasting siding solutions that give you genuine peace of mind.

A: Determining whether you need a siding repair or a full siding replacement often depends on the type and extent of the damage. For homeowners, here are a few quick tips to help you assess the quality of your current siding:

• Look for Visible Damage: Walk around your home and check for obvious signs like cracks, holes, rot, warping, or loose panels. Pay close attention to areas around windows, doors, and corners.

• Check for Moisture Issues: Discoloration, peeling paint (especially on wood siding), or a soft, spongy feel when you press on the siding can indicate moisture intrusion or hidden rot.

• Evaluate Energy Bills: A sudden increase in heating or cooling costs might suggest that your siding's insulating properties are failing.

• Consider Its Age: Every siding material has an expected lifespan, and if yours is nearing or past its prime, replacement might be more cost-effective than continuous repairs.

  • Fiber Cement Siding (like James Hardie): Generally lasts 50 to 100 years with proper installation and maintenance.

  • Wood Siding: Typically lasts 20 to 40 years, but requires consistent maintenance like painting and sealing to reach this timeframe.

  • Engineered Wood Siding: Usually has a lifespan of 20 to 30 years.

  • Vinyl Siding: While we don't install it, vinyl typically lasts around 20 years, often less in our region, and is far more prone to damage like high winds and hail.

  • Aluminum Siding: Expect 20 to 40 years, though it can dent and fade.

  • Stucco: Can last 50 to 80 years IF properly applied and upkept.

  • Brick/Stone Veneer: Can last 50 to 100 years (brick often longer than stone veneer).

While these tips can give you an initial idea, our Midwest Siding team is here to provide a free, no-obligation evaluation of your siding's current condition. Our experts will give you an honest assessment and present realistic options for repair. We only recommend a full siding replacement if we truly believe it's the most necessary and cost-effective long-term solution for your home.