In Part One of our three-part blog series, we talked about the aspects that sustainability covers – from production to disposal. In Part Two, we examined the most sustainable materials. Today, we talk about how you can enjoy your investment fully.
Sustainable siding is a promising investment that every homeowner should consider, but cashing in on the rewards relies on several factors.
- Installation. The success of every home improvement project hinges upon proper installation, and siding is no different. Synthetic stucco, for instance, should be installed with particular attention to preventing moisture damage. Fiber cement installation, on the other hand, creates a lot of silica dust which requires measures to ensure the safety of both the installation team and the occupants of the home.
- Cost-effectiveness. Picking the right product does not just involve checking the price tag. You also need to consider the overall cost of maintaining and repairing the product as needed.
- Other exterior elements. Siding is only part of what makes your home energy-efficient. To maximize your energy savings, your home’s windows, doors, roof and other exterior components should also be chosen with energy efficiency in mind.
With that said, your contractor must be chosen with care. The right professional will not only help ensure that your sustainable siding project turns out to be a good investment, he or she will also help you with tips to keep it that way. Look for a contractor who has extensive experience in the industry; a solid track record speaks for the quality of service that you will get. Your contractor should also ideally carry products from trusted brands – as this will assure you of product quality, great support and extensive warranties.
As much as possible, choose a local contractor. A local professional will be familiar with the building codes and stipulations enforced in your area, and will understand the most energy-efficient products for your climate zone.
