Feeling brave enough to tackle your home’s siding with a hammer in one hand and a YouTube tutorial in the other? Good for you.
While the idea of DIY siding installation can be tempting, with the potential to save money, earn bragging rights, and get a good workout on the table. But it’s not always the best choice. One wrong move could lead to costly mistakes, future repairs, or even a trip to the ER.
Before you commit, let’s break down when DIY makes sense and when it’s best to search “vinyl siding contractors near me” and call in the pros.
Investing in New Siding
Curb Appeal
Siding is like a fresh haircut—instantly noticeable and makes a world of difference. Whether your home looks outdated or just a little tired, new siding gives it a polished, modern feel that makes a lasting impression.
Potential buyers will see a well-maintained home instead of a project waiting to happen—one they’d have to add to their “To-Do” list.
It’s like dressing your house in its Sunday best—every day. Even if you’re not selling your home, pulling into your driveway and seeing a crisp, updated exterior is a win.
Resale Value
New siding and roofing in Utah isn’t just a facelift—it’s a solid financial move. Buyers love knowing they won’t have to deal with hidden damage or unexpected repairs. New siding makes your home a more attractive purchase. Think of it as adding some sparkle to your home’s piggy bank.
Energy Efficiency
Modern siding doesn’t just sit there and look pretty—it works hard to keep your energy bills in check. Better insulation and proper sealing mean no more heating the great outdoors or cooling down the entire neighborhood.
New siding helps you only pay for the energy you actually use rather than what leaks out through old, inefficient materials. Over time, those savings add up, making siding a wise investment for both your comfort and your wallet.
Fewer Repairs
Replacing old siding can reveal hidden issues like water damage, mold, or rot—problems that might have gone unnoticed until they became costly disasters. New siding doesn’t just uncover these problems. It helps prevent future damage by sealing your home properly.
It’s like updating your home’s suit of armor, saving you stress and money.
Option 1: Do It Yourself
Pros
Going the DIY route can save you a bundle on labor costs, and there’s a particular pride in stepping back to admire your own handiwork. If you love a challenge, siding your house could be rewarding.
Who doesn’t love a good “Remember when I redid the whole house” story to impress friends and neighbors?
Cons
One misstep can turn a money-saving project into an expensive headache. Precision is key. Unlike assembling furniture, there’s no “close enough” with siding. Improper installation may lead to drafts, leaks, or warping—issues that can be costly to fix.
The time commitment is no joke either; what a crew does in days could take you weeks. Let’s not forget the physical risks—one wrong move on a ladder, and your project suddenly includes a trip to urgent care.
Option 2: Hire a Professional
Pros
Hiring a pro means getting the job done right the first time—no guesswork, no YouTube troubleshooting required. Professionals work efficiently, often finishing in a fraction of the time a DIYer would take.
They can also spot and fix hidden issues as they work, like water damage or structural concerns, before they become major headaches. Plus, they’ll clean up the mess when they’re done so you won’t find nails in your yard for weeks.
Cons
The biggest downside? The cost. Professional installation isn’t cheap, but you’re paying for expertise, speed, and the peace of mind that it’s a job well done.
Scheduling can also be tricky—contractors are in high demand, so you might need to wait your turn. And let’s be honest, for some contractors, time operates on its own mysterious schedule. So, choose wisely when selecting your heroes for siding repair in Salt Lake City.
Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Choose
- How much experience do I have? Experience with other DIY projects doesn’t necessarily translate to siding. If your best DIY achievement is a Pinterest-inspired spice rack, siding your house might not be the next step.
- Do I have the tools? Siding requires specialized tools that can be expensive to buy or rent. No, your trusty old hammer and drill won’t cut it this time.
- Do I have a team to help? Siding is a two-person (or more) job, and recruiting help comes with risks like injuries and inconsistent work.
- Can I afford the upfront costs of a professional? Weigh the time, energy, and potential mistakes of DIY against the higher price of hiring a contractor. Is saving a little money worth the headache, or would you rather kick back and let the pros handle it?
Your Move
Siding is a big job. Whether you tackle it yourself or bring in the pros, it’s worth taking your time to make an informed choice. If you’re worried about the price of expert contractors, look for siding and roofing companies with payment plans.
Be honest about your skill level, the time you can commit, and your budget. A DIY win can feel amazing—but so can knowing that your home’s exterior is in expert hands.
There’s no shame in saying, “You know what? I’ll let someone else climb the ladder this time.”