You might be looking at your house and realize that it’s time to update your siding. Maybe it’s damaged and worn out, perhaps it has a dated look, or maybe the previous homeowner did a not so pleasant looking paint job. But now you’re asking yourself, “do I hire a professional, or do I YouTube DIY Siding Replacement videos?” Before committing to a DIY siding replacement job, it’s important to consider the Pros and Cons that come with it.
Pros of DIY Siding
1. Save on Costs
It might be an appealing idea to consider replacing your siding on your own due to the cost of paying for labor. After all, if you’re doing the work on your own, all you have to pay for are the materials.
2. Sense of Accomplishment
Successfully replacing your home’s siding can provide a sense of accomplishment. Knowing that you tackled such a large home improvement project and improved your homes exterior can be truly fulfilling.
3. Flexibility
You’re the project manager. You set the pace of the project, giving you the freedom to work on your terms.
4. Learning Experience
Taking on any DIY project is an educational journey. You’ll end up acquiring valuable skills and knowledge that can be applied to future projects.
Cons of DIY Siding Replacement
1. Skill and Experience
Siding replacement demands a set of specific skills and knowledge. Without prior experience, you might make mistakes that compromise the quality of the project or even cause damage.
2. Time Consuming
DIY projects often take longer than expected, especially if you’re learning on the go. Siding replacement is no exception, potentially leaving your home exposed to elements and weather for an extended period of time.
3. Safety Concerns
Working at heights, handling tools and managing heavy materials come with safety risks. Not taking the proper safety measures could lead to accidents and injuries.
4. Quality Concerns
Professionals have the training and experience needed to deliver quality work. DIY projects might lack the precision and finish that come with professional expertise.
5. Hidden Issues
Trained professionals can identify underlying problems and a beginner might just brush off. Not detecting these issues could lead to complications down the road, and you’ll likely end up having to call a professional to address the problem.
6. Warranty and Insurance
Certain siding materials come with warranties that might become invalid if they weren’t installed by licensed professionals. Additionally, insurance might not cover costs stemming from DIY-related property damage.
7. Costs Can Accumulate
Even though the cost of labor is eliminated, you may have to purchase necessary tools, materials and spend money on rectifying mistakes. All of these expenses can add up, effective offsetting your initial cost-saving intentions.
8. Resale Value
DIY siding replacement projects which are executed poorly might negative effect your home’s resale value. Prospective buyers could be wary of a home with DIY work that lacks a professional finish.
DIY Siding Replacement Conclusion
While the idea of saving in costs can be appealing, we would never recommend that a beginner attempt to do a full siding replacement without any prior experience in the field. It can be a dangerous job if you lack the experience, negatively impact your home’s resale value if the project isn’t executed properly, and quality work may not be that of a professional. If you lack the skills and experience, contacting a professional siding replacement company will ensure a smoother and more successful outcome. After all, the end goal is to have a beautiful home with a well protected exterior.
For a professional siding replacement job, contact Sensible Home Products. We have a 4.9 star rating on Google and offer free estimates. We’ll be glad to get you set up with everything you need to transform your home.