Step 6: Hire a Contractor

If you aren’t comfortable executing the build of your siding after going through the planning stages, we’ve got you covered! We give you insight into how to hire a professional and what price range you should expect. When you hire a professional to do your job instead of doing it yourself, you want to hire someone you can trust. This section of the gameplan provides you with the opportunity to hire a Turkstra Certified Referral to complete your job just as you envision, with the peace of mind you deserve.

How to Hire a Contractor

Below are some common mistakes that DIYers can make. After reviewing common mistakes, you can decide if the information helps you avoid mistakes or if you prefer to hire a professional.

MISTAKE #1: Improper fastening of the siding

The correct type and the correct number of fasteners must be used in the correct locations on the siding and the trim. Always follow manufacturer instructions. Ex:, Maibec em+ siding requires TWO staples centered on each furring strip at a 20° angle with at least a ¾” space between them. Staples should also have a minimum real penetration of 1″ in a solid substrate.

MISTAKE #2: Not doing all touch-ups

Apply touch-up stain to all surfaces of the profile before installing it so that no raw wood is exposed, and there are no irreversible mistakes once the siding is installed.

MISTAKE #3: Not keeping water away from windows

Install flashing both above and below windows to reduce water and snow buildup to reduce or eliminate the possibility of any potential damage.

MISTAKE #4: Not respecting the recommended clearances between siding and adjacent surfaces

Paying attention to recommended clearances and following them goes a long way in ensuring that you don’t run into any problems down the line.

MISTAKE #5: Not ensuring the proper amount of airflow behind the siding

For wood siding to perform correctly and optimally, it requires an open cavity. The cavity allows warm air and moisture to escape to dry the wood. Without this pocket and escape points both above and below the wall, the siding eventually fails. Performance and durability are a direct result of proper installation.