SIDING CONTRACTOR in Victoria BCWhen it comes to increasing your home's value, the first thing to consider is the vinyl siding. Vinyl siding is a form of plastic used to decorate a house's exterior and make it weatherproof. The problem these days is that people think that DIY is the answer. They log into a Youtube channel where they get inspirational quotes on how to be skilled craftsmen. They are made to think that DIY is easy and it will save them a lot of money. So which is best? DIY or professional work? Well, asking these questions is a great place to start. Hopefully we can answer help inform.
Reliable siding services are what we provide for our customers who are looking to have their house renovated or maintained. Sometimes looking things up online makes them seem easier than they actually are. We have spent a good amount time on rescuing some home do it yourself-ers after they have caused themselves costly fixes that could have been avoided. As experienced service providers there are a lot of small techniques that we have learned through job experience that greatly add to the quality of the life-span of the siding installed. We at Superior Siding want to assure you as a potential customer, you will be impressed with our work. 
DIY SIDING VS PROFESSIONAL HANDY MAN
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If you are thinking of replacing your residential siding in Victoria BC, you are possibly conflicted between a DIY job and hiring a professional. Before you consider a DIY project, there are several questions that you need to ask yourself. Making sure you have asked all the right questions before starting a high cost job like siding installation can save you time and money. These are some questions you may find helpful. You are also invited to call us and ask more questions!
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DO YOU HAVE DIY EXPERIENCE?
Have you ever replaced a hardie board? Or do you have previous experience replacing siding? What other types of handyman experience do you have? Ask yourself when was the last time you successfully replaced siding. If it you can't answer that question with utter confidence we suggest giving us a call or another local contractor.
It is common for people to want to do the work themselves because when they call a professional all they see is a large price tag. Have you realistically considered what all the factors and steps there are to do a correctly executed siding installation? 
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DO YOU HAVE THE NEEDED MANPOWER?
If you repair a small portion of your house, you will probably not need too much help. However, if you are re-installing new siding around the whole house, then you will need labor and lots of it. Start by asking yourself how big the property is and how long you want the project to last. If you want the project to last no more than a day or so, then you will need enough workforce for this.
If you attempt this project alone, you could find yourself working on it for an extended period of time. Have you considered the possible weather factors over a length of time? How much more damage would be caused by water exposure or other weather related factors, as one example. The siding on your house is so important. So having it half down for an extended period of time could really cause some issues. We strive to provide timely siding services to reduce that down time. A PROFESSIONAL SERVICE SAVES TIME AND MONEY
Vinyl siding installation is a time-consuming job. It can take you somewhere from 10 hours to 78 hours to do a simple installation task. The time can significantly increase if you are not a handy person. A handy person is that kind of person who likes manual work. Do you like manual work because it is more than you may expect.
Another factor to consider is whether you have the budget for it. It does not make sense to do the work yourself due to many reasons. |
Now, let us compare the pros and cons of DIY compared to hiring a professional installer.
Youtube videos don't tell you that the most challenging work is when you are about to install siding around corners, in the fascia and soffit sections. The job gets trickier when you are trimming openings such as on doors and windows. If skilled professionals still find it challenging to install the material around these places, why would you think it will be easy for you?
When undertaking a DIY project, are you aware of the type of systems available? For example, are you able to identify pest damage, mold, or water damage? If so, do you have the required skills and expertise to ensure that you solve this problem once and for all? Keep in mind that every material has its unique installation method, and if poorly installed, you risk destroying your home's aesthetic beauty. Hiring a capable group of siding contractors like us is something you will not regret.
Youtube videos don't tell you that the most challenging work is when you are about to install siding around corners, in the fascia and soffit sections. The job gets trickier when you are trimming openings such as on doors and windows. If skilled professionals still find it challenging to install the material around these places, why would you think it will be easy for you?
When undertaking a DIY project, are you aware of the type of systems available? For example, are you able to identify pest damage, mold, or water damage? If so, do you have the required skills and expertise to ensure that you solve this problem once and for all? Keep in mind that every material has its unique installation method, and if poorly installed, you risk destroying your home's aesthetic beauty. Hiring a capable group of siding contractors like us is something you will not regret.
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DO YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TOOLS?
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PROS OF DIY
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Depending on the type of material you choose, several tools will be needed for the job. These tools do not come cheap for a DIY project. They include:
MANUFACTURER TRAINING
Though DIY projects are not difficult, some materials will require manufacturer training to be correctly installed. Most of these training are not found on YouTube. Some companies will demand that their products be installed by a professional, and failure to adhere to these instructions may result in the warranty been voided.
THE TRASH : SITE WASTE
Before you decide to DIY, ask yourself what you will do with the trash. Do you know that renting a dumpster does not come cheap? Professionals have the necessary equipment to scan for nails and stray scraps.
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Though we are firm believers in professional work, there are some advantages of DIY siding. These are:
CONS OF DIY
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CHOOSING TO HIRE A PROFESSIONAL CONTRACTOR
So why would you choose to hire a professional siding contractor instead of DIY? The answer is simple: it has more advantages. Before you hire a contractor, keep in mind that you must always look out for online reviews to know the type of person you are hiring.
CONS
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PROS
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778-401-0657
778-401-0657
SIDING SERVICES
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Irrespective of the type of siding you want to install, they must be maintained and cleaned. There are several types of siding in Victoria, BC, that you can choose from. These range from wood siding, which is known for its elegant texture and style. We also have metal siding that comprises of either aluminum or steel. Other decorative materials include:
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EXTERIOR DRY ROT
The greatest challenge faced by homeowners is knowing whether there is dry rot. Siding can be deceiving as the rot takes place inside where it is not easily visible. It is for this reason we recommend that you use our screwdriver test.
The test is easy; you use the screwdriver handle to tap on areas around the wall. Since it is covered with the same material, the sound produced should not be different. As you listen for awkward sounds, make sure to check out for weak spots. A weak spot is a clear indication that something is wrong, and in this case, that section needs to be replaced.
Failure to replace the dry rot might result in the entire house been resided.
The test is easy; you use the screwdriver handle to tap on areas around the wall. Since it is covered with the same material, the sound produced should not be different. As you listen for awkward sounds, make sure to check out for weak spots. A weak spot is a clear indication that something is wrong, and in this case, that section needs to be replaced.
Failure to replace the dry rot might result in the entire house been resided.
A WRAPPED FACE
Wrapped faces may be a result of extreme weather conditions that result in several layers rotting. This is especially so if you have wooden coverings. You can also use a screwdriver test to know whether there is a problem underneath. Take the screwdriver and poke under the material and feel its texture. If it is spongy, then it is most likely rotten.
SIGNS OF FUNGUS AND MILDEW
The biggest problem with this covering is that it easily harbors green algae, especially in the board's shaded section. If you spot algae at the seams and find mildew and mold, then know that you have a moisture problem and the siding is not working as it's supposed to. Therefore, we recommend you give us a call, and we will have it fixed immediately.
LOOSE OR BROKEN EXTERIORS
The golden rule is simple; if you spot a broken exterior, have it fixed immediately. Failure to fix it may result in the problem being more costly to repair. If there are larger sections of the exterior that are broken or cracked, this could be a sign of a bigger problem. If you give us a call, we will evaluate the boards, investigate the problem, and offer a permanent solution.
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SINGS OF BUBBLING
There are two main reasons as to why there is bubbling. The first is that the exteriors have been exposed to excessive heat. The second reason is that water has been trapped in the exteriors, but the only way to know for sure is to have it inspected by an expert.
HOLES IN THE EXTERIOR
Holes in the exterior can either be caused by insects or sudden bang. There are two types of holes, small holes, and big holes. Most people assume that small holes can not affect the underside of the siding. This belief is misguided because these small holes can still allow water to penetrate through at the end of the day. If insects caused the holes, the damage can increase because the insects can destroy your house.
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FADED SIDING
Another way to know whether to replace or repair your exterior's is to investigate whether they are beginning to fade. Fading exteriors reduce your home's aesthetic beauty, and if they have outlived their life span, they may not be protecting your home as they should be. Different exteriors will have different lifespans depending on the material used and quality.
OUTDOOR PAINT IS PEELING
There are two ways in which you can look at this. If your exteriors keep losing its paint, then there is too much moisture in your home. The second way you can look at it is if you spend too much time painting it. This might be because of cracking or chipping. A quality exterior should be able to keep its color for at least eight years. If you are panting it every 2-3 years, then it needs to be replaced.
INCREASED ENERGY BILLS
Though high energy bills can be caused by several factors such as lack of attic insulation and drafty windows, damaged sidings can increase the energy bills. However, we advise that you only consider this after all other factors have been ruled out.
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778-401-0657
SOFFIT CONTRACTOR
Another beautifying element of a house is the soffit. Roof soffits have two main purposes; the first is to add aesthetic beauty to your home, and the second is to protect rafters from elements.
SOFFIT AND FASCIA
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Most people use the same names to refer to the same thing. However, these are two different things with two different roles. For example, the first material is used to cover the eaves to protect it from weather elements such as rain and snow. The eave is an area of the roof that overhangs the walls.
Most houses have roofs with a slight extension to prevent water from dripping too close to the home. It is this slight extension that creates an eave just below the roof. On the contrary, a fascia board runs along the roofline, and its primary purpose is to protect the roof from moisture by holding the gutters in place. There are two types of fascia boards available. We have a square-edged board and a nosed bull board. To prolong the shelf life of your fascia, we suggest that you install a drip edge. This is an L-shaped metal piece placed just below the first layer of the shingles. Its primary purpose is to direct water away from the facial board. |
There are several reasons why you should have soffits installed:
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IT REDUCES YOUR MAINTENANCE COST
If ceiling wood is exposed to weather elements, then it will be exposed to moisture. This will, in turn, result in wood rot, which will require you to replace the damaged section. Trust us when we tell you that roof raft maintenance is an expensive process that you are better off avoiding.
PROTECTS THE ROOF's INTEGRITY
Another important job of roof soffits is to protect the integrity of your roof. It does this by protecting the underlying rafters and exposed wood from elements of weather. When moisture gets in contact with the wood, it may start to rot, resulting in the roof been unstable.
INCREASES THE AESTHETIC BEAUTY OF THE HOUSE
Apart from roof shingles, soffits are an easy way to add character to your house. They come in several designs and colors ranging from amber, orange, green, and white. The right combination of color and design will increase the aesthetic beauty of your home.
FACILITATES NATURAL VENTILATION
Vented soffits are a great way to increase ventilation in your home. The installed vents create an opportunity for air to enter the attic, and this reduces moisture build-up. Another advantage of having a vent installed is that cold air is introduced into your home, thereby reducing your energy bills.
VENTED VS. NON-VENTED SOFFITS
You might be wondering which type of soffit to buy; do you buy vented or non-vented ones? We advise our clients to buy non-vented ones if their roofs have narrow eaves. If your home has a wide eave, we suggest you buy vented panels.
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HOW DO YOU MAINTAIN YOUR SOFFITS?
Though several types of panels can be used, we prefer vinyl panels. This is because they are proven to require little maintenance as long as they have been installed correctly. For this reason, we implore you only hire a qualified contractor for the job.
To increase the lifespan of your eave panels, we suggest you do the following:
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778-401-0657
778-401-0657
GUTTER SYSTEM, CLEANING & MAINTENANCE
A gutter is simply a water discharge system that runs around the roof to collect runoff water and discharge it into a drain system or reservoir. Without a gutter system, your siding might rot, and water may enter through the windows and doors. So what are the five benefits of having a gutter installed:
GUTTERS PREVENT DECAY
Homes without a gutter have one fundamental flaw, too much rainwater gets in contact with the house. If your house has wooden panels, the water will cause wood decay. Gutters also prevent the siding from cracking and breaking over time. As time goes by, different parts of the house will start to decay, significantly increasing your maintenance cost.
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IT PREVENTS SOIL EROSION
If you do not install a gutter in your home, rainwater will splash on the ground and displace soil and create unsightly holes on the ground. When there is a heavy downpour, the water will stagnate, resulting in muddy soils that can damage your plants and landscape. If left unchecked, the entire landscape will be destroyed, lowering the value of your property.
GUTTERS PROTECT YOUR SIDING
When installed correctly, gutters should be able to make your roof completely waterproof. Houses without a proper gutter system suffer from mold and mildew infestation. This is because water finds its way through the seams and into the house. If left unchecked, the water will cause rot increasing your maintenance cost.
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THEY PROTECT YOUR HOMES FOUNDATION
Trust us when we tell you that the most expensive repair you would want to have is a foundation repair. Effective rain gutters should be able to divert water away from the foundation. If rainwater enters the foundation, the soil will loosen, causing cracking and shifting. If you spot cracks in your house, have it fixed immediately, or it might result in a total structural collapse of your property.
IT GUARDS YOUR HOUSE AGAINST MOLD
Without a roof guard, your house will quickly gather moisture, creating a long-term problem, especially if you have drywall installed. For example, the excess humidity will find its way inside your drywall, and this will create a perfect atmosphere for the growth of mold. Keep in mind that mold is toxic, and once it infests your home, it becomes difficult to remove.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOUR GUTTERS BE CLEANED?
Most residential and commercial property owners neglect their gutters until it is too late. Keeping your roof's drainage system clean has several advantages, such as reducing water leaks and increasing your property's aesthetic appeal.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD CLEAN THE WHOLE SYSTEM?
We recommend that you contact a professional cleaning company at least twice a year. If your property is surrounded by trees or is in a storm-prone area, we recommend that you have it cleaned at least once every three months.
If it is a rainy season, we advise you to inspect your gutters at least once a month. If your system is faulty, it might collect stagnant water, resulting in a mosquito infestation. You might also find clutter that may make your system sag and detach from the fascia board. If your property is more than one floor high, do not risk your life inspecting the system. Give us a call, and we will sort you out.
If it is a rainy season, we advise you to inspect your gutters at least once a month. If your system is faulty, it might collect stagnant water, resulting in a mosquito infestation. You might also find clutter that may make your system sag and detach from the fascia board. If your property is more than one floor high, do not risk your life inspecting the system. Give us a call, and we will sort you out.
DO SEASONS AFFEECT GUTTER MAINTENANCE?
Yes, different seasons affect how your roof's drainage systems work.
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SPRING : Depending on the region you are in, you might experience heavy snowfalls, which might weaken the joints and seams. Also, seams might widen due to fluctuating temperatures. The damage might get worse if the system is already clogged and leaking.
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SUMMER : Summer is known for its hot temperatures, which increase the transpiration rate. As a result, trees will shed leaves, which might find their way into the roof's drainage system. If it clogs, the water will flow down the wall and cause wood rot.
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FALL : During the Fall, trees become dormant, and they begin to shed their leaves. These leaves may clog the roof's drainage system causing leakage. If not removed, the leaves will ferment and discolor the gutter.
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WINTER : Winter is known for causing the highest form of gutter damage. Snow may cause destructive ice dams, and the weight might cause the gutter to sag. We suggest installing heating devices and gutter guards to prevent non-melted snow from entering the system.
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778-401-0657
778-401-0657
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