More and more homeowners are choosing Hardie® plank siding in Baltimore County, MD because of its ability to withstand the extreme changes in weather and climate throughout the year.

Over time, your home’s exterior siding may degrade due to exposure to the elements, wear and tear, insect and animal damage, and poor maintenance. When it’s time to invest in new siding installation, Hardie® plank siding is one of the most durable, versatile, and cost-effective choices. In fact, Hardie® is the number one brand of fiber cement siding in the United States.

Let’s take a look at the benefits of Hardie® plank siding, care and maintenance needs, and budgeting for the cost of new siding.

When Do You Need to Replace Your Siding?

The lifespan of your home’s exterior siding depends on your siding material, regional climate, how it was installed, and whether you  have committed to regular care and maintenance. Vinyl siding can typically last for between 10-20 years, while aluminum siding has a lifespan of 20-40 years, and fiber cement siding can last up to 50 years. You should consider new siding installation or siding replacement if:

  • Your siding is significantly damaged and is more than 20 years old.
  • You plan on selling your home in the next five years.
  • Siding repair would cost as much or more than siding replacement.
  • Your siding has major water damage, insect damage, or animal damage.
  • You see signs of mold or mildew growth.
  • Your siding is sagging, cracking, chipping, blistering, fading, rotting, or missing pieces.
  • You have paid for siding repair more than once in the past year.
  • You can’t keep up with necessary siding maintenance.
  • Your siding is poorly installed, poorly maintained, out of date, poor quality, or doesn’t compliment the architecture or aesthetics of your home.

What is Hardie® Plank Siding?

Hardie® plank siding is a brand of fiber cement siding that is available in a wide variety of colors, styles, textures, and finishes. Hardie® is a reputable, national siding company that has been in business for over 130 years and is committed to quality, sustainability, and innovation.

Exploring Different Types of Hardie® Plank Siding

It’s easy to find the perfect type of Hardie® siding for your home:

  • Plank Lap Siding – Plank Lap Siding is the most common type of Hardie siding used in Maryland. It is clean, classic, and traditional and complements any architectural style and aesthetic.
  • Panel Siding – Panel siding is contemporary and striking and can add visual interest and texture to your home’s architecture.
  • Shingle and Shake Siding – Shingle and shake siding complements historic architecture and looks neat and clean.

What Are the Advantages of Hardie® Plank Siding?

Hardie® siding is the most durable and cost-effective siding brand available in the United States. When you choose Hardie® plank siding, you are getting siding that is:

  • Noncombustible and fire-resistant.
  • Resistant to moisture.
  • Resistant to pests like termites, insects, and woodpeckers.
  • Superior protection from the elements, including rain, snow, ice, hail, and strong winds.
  • Low-maintenance and easy to care for.
  • Protected by a 30-year, non-prorated warranty.
  • Available in a wide variety of styles, colors, textures, and finishes for unmatched curb appeal.
  • Superior color consistency, adhesion, and durability.
  • A great investment, as it can increase the resale value of your home.

Wood Siding vs Hardie® Plank Siding

You have several choices when it comes to new siding for your home: wood, vinyl, aluminum, fiber cement, composite, and more. The most common types of exterior siding in Baltimore are wood siding and fiber cement siding. So how does Hardie® plank siding compare to wood siding? Wood siding is not naturally resistant to pests and insects, and it requires specialized treatments to withstand the elements and maintain its beauty. You will need to commit to regular care and maintenance, including sealing, staining, and painting wood siding. In comparison, Hardie® siding is durable, low-maintenance, and requires little care and upkeep. It retains its color for decades without fading, peeling, or cracking and it is resistant to discoloration, pests, insects, and weather damage.

Hardie plank siding is more durable than wood

Care and Maintenance of Hardie® Plank Siding

Hardie® siding is durable and low maintenance. You should clean your siding with a soft power washer or hose every year or after heavy storms. You can also remove dirt, dust, and debris with a medium-bristle brush. You should keep landscaping, trees, and bushes carefully trimmed around your home’s exterior to prevent water damage and scratches.

Cost of New Siding Installation

On average, new siding installation costs $10 per square foot; however, the cost depends on where you live and what siding material you choose. Fiber cement siding costs between $5-10 per square foot, and Hardie® siding installation can cost between $7,000-10,000.

Request an Estimate for Hardie® Plank Siding in Baltimore County, MD

At Badger Contracting, we are the most trusted roofing contractor in Baltimore County, MD. However, we do much more than roofing. We specialize in roofing, window, and siding services throughout the Annapolis, Baltimore, Columbia, Owing Mills, Towson, Bel Air, Westminster, and Glen Burnie, MD areas. We carry a wide selection of vinyl and fiber cement siding, and we can help you choose the best style, color, and material for your taste and preferences. Call us today or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation or request an estimate for Hardie® plank siding services.

Exterior siding plays a very important role in your home’s energy-efficiency and longevity. Siding protects your home from the elements, animals, insects, and more. When you install the right type of siding on your home, you can reduce the effects of outside temperatures on your home’s interior comfort. But what are the best types of siding in Baltimore County, MD for residential homes? Keep reading to learn more about different types of siding and find out how to choose which one is right for your home.

Understanding the Most Popular Types of Siding

First, it’s important to understand the key differences between different popular types of siding. These are the most commonly used types of siding in Maryland:

  • Vinyl siding – Vinyl siding is the most popular type of siding for residential homes. Vinyl is durable, weather resistant, low-maintenance, and cost-effective. You can choose from a wide range of colors and even finishes, including siding that looks like wood or stone. With vinyl siding, you won’t need to worry about repainting or dealing with splinters, wood rot, or pests.
  • Fiber cement siding – Fiber cement siding is also very durable and affordable. It is resistant to weather, moisture, pests, and rot, and is non-combustible.
  • Metal siding – Metal siding is also very durable and can withstand extreme weather. It is low-maintenance, fireproof, and pest-resistant, but it is not as insulating as other types of siding, making it common for commercial and industrial applications.
  • Wood siding – Wood shingle siding is attractive and timeless. It requires regular maintenance and refinishing and is susceptible to rot. It can be painted any color you desire.
  • Composite wood siding – Composite wood siding is engineered to look like natural wood, but it is a composite of natural wood and resin. It is available in almost every possible color, and it is more durable than traditional wood.

Considering the ROI of New Siding

Some types of exterior siding offer a better ROI than others. The cost of your new siding will depend on the cost of the materials and the cost of labor, but sometimes investing a little more in materials will offer a greater payoff should you choose to sell your home in the future. Vinyl siding and fiber cement siding typically offer between 75-85% ROI.

How Different Types of Siding Will Hold up to Your Regional Climate

New siding installation can enhance your home’s energy-efficiency, reduce your carbon footprint, and keep your home more comfortable year-round. When choosing new siding, you should consider your regional climate and which siding materials can withstand the weather and temperature in your region. Vinyl siding and fiber cement siding are the most durable siding options in Maryland. They both are resistant to moisture and can withstand the extreme temperature fluctuations in the region. They both also offer superior protection from rain and wind.

Siding Installation Costs

Next, you want to consider your budget and the installation costs for different types of siding. Your costs may vary from region to region and company to company. Vinyl siding will typically be the most affordable option for homeowners. Fiber cement siding is still affordable but may have a slightly higher price tag than vinyl.

Siding Maintenance and Repair Costs

Once your siding is installed, you will have to commit to some level of siding maintenance and the costs of siding repairs. Vinyl siding is very weather-resistant and requires little maintenance. When you have a problem with your vinyl siding, you can often hire a contractor to replace or repair one small area of damage without having to commit to new siding installation. Fiber cement siding is also very low-maintenance and durable. Minor damage can usually be repaired by patching up the damage and refinishing the area.

Types of Siding to Satisfy HOA Regulations or Match Your Neighbors

Finally, you may need to consider your neighborhood association or homeowner’s association’s regulations regarding new siding installation. Regulatory organizations like these often have very specific rules about what types of siding you’re allowed to install on your home. They may also dictate the appropriate colors you’re allowed to use for your siding and your home’s exterior. If you don’t have an HOA or neighborhood association, you may want to consider what types of siding your neighbors have chosen. If you want your home to complement those of your neighbors’, you might want to choose a similar type and color of exterior siding.

Schedule a Consultation for Siding Installation in Baltimore County, MD

If you’re ready to explore your options for new siding installation in Baltimore County, MD, our team at Badger Contracting can help. We specialize in installing high-quality, durable vinyl siding and fiber cement siding throughout the Baltimore metropolitan area, including Annapolis, Baltimore, Columbia, Owing Mills, Towson, Bel Air, Westminster, and Glen Burnie, MD, and surrounding areas. Our experts will assess the age and condition of your home and offer you our recommendation for the best type of siding to protect your home. Call us today or fill out our online contact form to get started.

badger contracting

Looking for a contractor to fix your home is always a major headache. At Badger Contracting, we believe in the purpose of true professionalism. Our skilled experts work to provide services that cover a full range of roofing, siding, and window projects. We guarantee that you will be 100% satisfied with our workmanship, but also our ability to make it a no-stress experience. That’s why working with us will relieve any doubts on your next roofing, siding, and windows installation or repair projects. 

Cost-Effective and Energy Efficient Windows

Badger Contracting offers a variety of window styles and color preferences to meet your design needs. Updating or replacing your windows with energy-efficient windows can help add value to your home, while also providing you with natural light and a comfortable environment. Badger Contracting specializes in:

  • Casement windows
  • Vinyl single-hung tilt-in windows 
  • Vinyl double-hung tilt-in windows 
  • Bay windows 
  • Bow windows 
  • Low-E film protectant

Roofing Repair and Replacement 

Working with your budget is what we strive to do best. Individualized inspections and unique solutions are the only ways to approach your roofing repairs. After your free inspection, our experts will work with you to identify the best and most cost-effective plan to meet your needs. We will work with you to find a financial plan tailored to you to help offset the cost of your project. Once we have a service plan in place, you can rest assured that we will only partner with companies we trust.

More Than Just Siding 

We provide a wide range of our siding services—vinyl and fiber cement siding, including the popular Hardie plank for your needs. We pride ourselves in working with skilled professionals to ensure that you receive superior craftsmanship in more than just siding. Some of these include:

  • Insulation 
  • Soffits 
  • Gutters and down 
  • Trim 
  • Leaf away

Customer Service That Matters

The customer service at Badger Contracting is unparalleled. The payoff for a customer-centered business is that most of our business comes from referrals and existing clients.  

Contact Badger Contracting for your residential roofing and siding needs in the Baltimore and Washington D.C. area.

siding
detect siding issues early

What Shape Is Your Siding In?

On the long list of things to maintain in your home, siding is usually at the bottom of the list. While high-quality, professionally installed siding can last many years, there are still issues that can surface that you should watch for, address, and have repaired. Don’t let these problems go for too long as they can cause a lot of trouble and expense down the road. To keep costs low and your home in good shape, we’ve put together a few tips on identifying siding issues early before it’s too late.

Possible Siding Issues

What kind of siding do you have? Vinyl siding tends to have fewer issues than wood. Vinyl can warp in the heat, fade, and is susceptible to weather damage such as hail or high winds.

Wood siding can have issues, too, especially in an area like Baltimore. 

  • Pests – Being a natural material, wood can attract a variety of pests, from beetles and termites to woodpeckers. 
  • Moisture – While it’s designed to keep moisture out, siding can rot or mold in damp climates if it’s damaged. 
  • Peeling/fading – After a while, some siding may fade or even peel, especially in locations of bright sunlight. 
  • Roof problems – Issues with your roof can have a literal trickle-down effect on your siding. 
  • Loud – If your siding creaks a lot or makes noise, especially as the temperature changes, it may have been installed too tightly. 

Addressing Siding Issues

The good news is many siding issues, if addressed early, are easily avoided and repaired. Start with making sure you use a great contractor to properly install your siding. Check your siding thoroughly at least once a quarter and after any major storms. Look for any of the above issues. If you spot anything amiss, contact your installation contractor or an equivalent expert to repair it. 

It’s as easy as that! With a little diligence and knowing what to look for, you can keep your siding in tiptop shape for years to come. At Badger Contracting, we can take care of all your needs. Contact us today for an inspection!

Your siding and roof are the key exterior features that protect your home from the elements. Knowing what signs indicate a need for siding replacement can be crucial. Don’t wait until it becomes compromised and allows moisture or other issues to damage the interior of your home. Contact a professional contractor if you experience any of the following signs.


Extensive Holes and Chipping

Small holes in siding can be patched or repaired, but significant damage to the structure of your siding means it’s time for a replacement. This can happen to most siding materials, including vinyl, aluminum, and wood. Replacing the siding altogether is typically more cost-effective than patching several holes.


Frequent Cracking and Peeling Paint

How often are you painting your siding? Other than wood siding, which should be painted every 10 years, paint jobs should not be needed frequently. If your paint begins to peel and crack after a few years, it may be a sign that there is an issue with your siding and it needs to be replaced. Talk to your contractor about the type of paint used, this will help determine whether the paint or the siding is the source of the issue.


Rot, Mold, or Mildew

While dry rot may only eat away at wood siding, problems like mold and mildew can affect any and all types of siding. These issues could also be pointing to moisture issues behind your siding. Some surface mildew can be cleaned, but rot, mold, or extensive mildew issues require your siding to be removed and replaced.


Enjoy Quality Siding Services for Your Home

Don’t let compromised siding allow moisture and insects to eat away at your sheathing, framing, and other interior materials. Contact Badger Contracting today to learn how you can restore your home and enjoy long-term savings. Invest in siding replacement to enjoy years of minimal to no maintenance and a home exterior that keeps you protected. Call 410-417-6972 or email us today for more information.  

You face dozens of design decisions when building or remodeling your home. Whether you’re upgrading your siding, installing new siding, or simply touching up your paint job, color matters. Learn how to select the perfect siding color today and add instant curb appeal to your home.


Consider Your Climate

Do you live in a particularly cloudy region with lots of snowfall, or is it sunny and warm all year? Climate matters when it comes to color options. A specific color may look very different during a bright sunny summer than it will in a cold, snowy winter. Consider how your home will look throughout the seasons and various weather patterns that are typical to your area.


Size Matters

Deep, bold colors are popular for modern designs. However, if you have a particularly large house, it can feel quite brooding. Consider choosing a lighter, more neutral color for your siding and touch up a few trim details with darker colors.


Complement Your Roof

Finally, consider your roof color before committing to a new siding paint job. This is particularly true if you’re selecting a shade that’s very different than your current siding color. Brown shingles may match your wood-toned siding, but will look unattractive if you switch it up with a dark-toned siding color.

Find a matching or accent color to complement your roof. If you’re also replacing your roof, you can consider a brand-new color palette for both, but be sure you keep them both in mind as you shop for paint colors. Your roof and siding are significant investments that can last for decades, so be sure you find the perfect, timeless match.


Contact the Professionals

If you’re still struggling to find the perfect siding color for your personality and your neighborhood, contact Badger Contracting. Work with professional designers to get the most out of your paint job and create a memorable home with excellent curb appeal. Call 410-417-6972 or email us today to learn more!