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Guide to Siding Repairs

Guide to Siding Repairs

by | Aug 1, 2022 | Community, Siding, Windows

A COMPLETE GUIDE TO SIDING REPAIRS | ALBANY, OR

If you’ve been following us, you might have noticed that there are multiple types of siding. That includes fiber-cement siding, lap siding, cedar shake, vertical siding, brick, stone, stucco, and the list goes on!

No matter which kind of siding you have, Top Form Contracting is here to help explain the answers to some FAQs we get about siding repairs in Albany, OR.

Read on for everything you need to know, and if you have questions, please feel free to give us a call at (541) 926-4597. We’re here to help!

Damaged Siding

SIGNS YOU NEED A SIDING REPAIR

It’s a good idea to get a siding repair if you’re selling your home and want to raise that home value. (After all, new or repaired siding does wonders for your curb appeal!) 

Here are some other signs that it’s time for a siding repair:

  • Cracked siding
  • Holes in the siding
  • Bubbles in the siding 
  • Mildew and mold in your home
  • Interior paint damage
  • Dry rot
  • Higher-than-average electric bills

CAN YOU REPLACE PIECES OF SIDING?

This depends on the extent of the siding damage. However, yes, you can generally replace small pieces of siding. At a minimum, you will need a qualified siding contractor with a pry bar and a zip tool who can put in the new piece for you. 

While you can DIY siding repairs, it’s recommended to always work with a professional siding company so that you can ensure the repair is done correctly and does not cause further damage. 

HOW DO YOU REPAIR DAMAGED SIDING?

How to repair siding is different for all types of siding. First, a siding contractor should come out to assess the damage. Once we understand what we’re dealing with, we will let you know the steps to fix your siding (and any costs associated with it).

All we need to do for most minor siding repair cases is replace broken flashing, recaulk, fill in holes, add new building paper, or put in new pieces of siding. (If there is severe damage, we might need to install new siding.) 

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO REPAIR LOOSE SIDING?

Siding repair costs vary based on the siding contractor, material, and specific repair. It could be $175 to $500 for small siding repairs or several thousand dollars for more complex repairs. 

To estimate the cost for your siding repair needs, you can divide the outside of your home into squares and triangles. Then, after you’ve distinguished the two, you can multiply the height by length to get the square footage for the squares. 

To get the square footage for the triangles, you can multiply the height by length and then divide that number by two. (You will need to remove the window square footage as well, as no siding will be repaired there.) 

Once you have the square footage for all the squares and triangles, you can add those two numbers, which will tell you the square footage you require for siding. (Just don’t forget to consider labor costs, as that can affect the overall price.) 

As you can tell, estimating the cost can get complicated fast. That’s why we send a professional estimator to your home to give you an accurate quote for all siding repair work. 

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO REPAIR ONE PIECE OF SIDING?

The cost to repair one piece of siding depends on the type of siding and specific repair. If the siding has a hole in it, you can expect to pay $200+ in general for the repair work. It may cost more to repair a dent and any dry rot damage.

WHY IS MY SIDING ROTTING?

If you have wood siding, it’s at risk for everything that you expect might impact wood: dry rot, warping, and bacterial growth–to name a few examples. It’s also exposed to the elements outside, which means that bugs, birds, and other animals can damage the siding and cause you to need a siding repair.

Rotting siding typically happens when your siding isn’t made from a high-quality, weather-resistant material or if you don’t get a contractor to look at the damage early on after you notice a problem. Rest assured that if you need an expert to examine your siding, we are qualified and would love to help you out.

WHAT IS THE LIFE EXPECTANCY OF SIDING?

The life expectancy of your siding depends on what type of siding you choose for your home and whether you keep up with siding repairs and maintenance. Wood siding can stay good for between 15-40 years, but maintenance should be a top priority, especially considering that you live in the Pacific Northwest, where there is a lot of rain. (That exposes your wood siding to problems and can wear your siding down over time.)

James Hardie siding generally comes with a 30-year warranty. Although, with the right care, it can stay in good condition for up to 50 years. The key is to monitor your siding for problems and consult a professional right away if you notice any.

SHOULD YOU REPAIR OR REPLACE SIDING?

Whether you should repair or replace your house siding depends on the scope of the damage. For instance, if your siding has visible signs of aging, an insect infestation, or significant cracks or warping, a siding replacement is in order. 

However, if you have just a few cracked or loose pieces of siding, a siding repair should do the trick. The best way to know if you need a repair or replacement is to consult professionals.

WHEN SHOULD I REPLACE HARDIE BOARD SIDING?

When you should replace your Hardie board siding is similar to when you notice problems with any other type of siding. That means that if you’re constantly doing siding maintenance, there are a lot of damaged or loose pieces of siding, or there’s warping or rot, your siding’s lifespan is probably up.

The good news is that Hardie board siding is designed to last for decades. In other words, it’s unlikely you’ll have problems early on after getting siding, but let’s say you just purchased a home and didn’t make any changes to the existing siding. If so, the siding may have been there well past the siding’s lifespan and was gearing up to need to be replaced soon.

WHAT IS THE MOST DURABLE SIDING?

There are many durable types of siding, including but not limited to fiber cement, wood, aluminum, and cedar shake. If you’re looking to repair your existing siding, but you find out that you need a siding replacement instead, we’ll let you know and recommend some options that would work for you.
James Hardie fiber-cement siding is one of our most recommended options. Not only does it come pre-primed and finish-ready, but there are also many color and style variations that allow you to personalize the siding for your home.

Repairing siding on house in Albany

CONTACT ONE OF THE BEST SIDING CONTRACTORS IN ALBANY TODAY

If you need a siding repair or even a new siding installation, Top Form Contracting has you covered. We can take care of all of your siding needs in Albany, Corvallis, and the surrounding cities.

Looking for a free estimate? Top Form Contracting is here for you. Call us now at (541) 926-4597 to schedule a time for us to come out.

What Is Included in an Exterior Envelope Replacement?

What Is Included in an Exterior Envelope Replacement?

by | Mar 11, 2022 | Community, Siding, Windows

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN AN EXTERIOR ENVELOPE REPLACEMENT?

The exterior envelope of your home includes components that protect the interior from the rain, snow, sun, and other outside elements. Something that many people don’t know is that an exterior envelope replacement offers many more benefits than weather protection, though. 

In this blog, we’ll introduce the key exterior envelope services we offer at Top Form Contracting and explain a few reasons why these services might be right for your home.

Smiling Homeowners

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN AN EXTERIOR ENVELOPE REPLACEMENT? 

Here are the most common features of an exterior envelope replacement:

SIDING

Siding, one of the main components of an exterior envelope replacement, provides a protective layer to the outside walls of buildings. It typically comes in wood, fiber cement, vinyl, or metal, and it is simple to maintain with the right siding installation contractor’s help. 

WINDOWS

Windows come in multiple shapes and sizes, such as single hung, double hung, and arched. They can be strategically placed throughout your home during construction or used to replace old windows.

DOORS

If you’re looking to install a new front door, you have several options to choose from. Turn heads, and boost your curb appeal with a new entrance to your home. Front doors can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and fiberglass. 

TRIM

Trim is the framing material that covers the windows and doors. It typically comes in wood but can be found in synthetic materials, such as fiber cement. Ensuring your exterior trim is in good shape is key to keeping your home looking its best and keeping water out.

WHY GET AN EXTERIOR ENVELOPE REPLACEMENT?

Homeowners looking to make upgrades can benefit from an exterior envelope replacement. Here’s what it can do for you:

BOOST HOME VALUE

Over several years, the outside elements can damage, warp, and wear away at your home’s siding and trim. If you plan to sell your home, remember that exterior upgrades can make it more attractive to potential buyers. Installing new exterior elements can increase your home value by adding a fresh new appearance and durability. 

IMPROVE INSULATION

Have you ever noticed a draft of cold air coming in through the front door or windows? Are you unable to keep the inside of your home at the desired temperature? This may be due to worn-out trim around your doors and windows, as well as outdated siding. Replacing the exterior elements of your home can fix that. 

INCREASE ENERGY SAVINGS

Whether you’re using oil, gas, or electricity to heat your home, consider the energy-saving benefits when you replace your siding or windows. In addition to better interior temperature regulation, you might notice a drop in your utility expenses. That’s because Top Form Contracting offers exterior envelope components with energy efficiency in mind.

Siding installation contractor

CONTACT TOP FORM CONTRACTING TODAY | ALBANY, OR

Getting an exterior envelope replacement is a big decision to make. We hope the above information has given you some insight into the benefits of making exterior upgrades. 

Want to get started? The home remodeling experts at Top Form Contracting would be glad to help you. Call us today at (541) 926-4597 for a free estimate.

Differences Between Wood Siding vs. Fiber Cement

Differences Between Wood Siding vs. Fiber Cement

by | Feb 15, 2022 | Dry Rot, Remodeling Tips and Tricks

Wood Siding vs. Fiber-Cement Siding: What Is the Difference?

It’s no secret there are many great type of siding on the market (and the same can be said about siding contractors). However, when it comes to your home or business, there’s a good chance you want to know more about the siding options available to you so that you can trust you’re making the right choice.

Two of the best siding materials are wood and fiber cement. In this blog, we’re going to cover some pros and cons of wood siding vs. fiber-cement siding to help you make an educated decision about which type of siding is best for your needs.

Let’s get started!

Siding on a home

Differences Between Wood Siding vs. Fiber-Cement Siding

Wood and fiber cement are among the most popular exterior siding options for property owners. Each choice has its pros and cons. Here’s everything you need to know about wood siding vs. fiber-cement siding:

Wood Siding

Wood siding is applied to the outside of a building structure to provide protection from the elements. Wooden frames made from plywood line the exterior walls of most modern homes. Then, a house wrap gets installed over the frames for a second protective layer. 

Lastly, the exterior walls are lined with wooden siding panels, which add style, insulation, and a third layer of protection. Most wooden siding panels are available in plywood, shingles, clapboard, or rectangular plank. 

The benefits of wood siding include: 

  • It’s easy to replace.
  • It can be painted or stained any color.
  • It’s environmentally friendly.
  • It’s generally quick to make wood siding repairs.

The main drawback of wood siding is that it can become damaged by termites, water, or insects. In other words, it is important to keep up with siding maintenance to ensure that no issues go unnoticed and that repairs are done in a timely manner to protect your home. 

One thing you can do to maintain your siding is inspect it often for warping, dry rot, etc. You should also clean your siding one time every two years at a minimum. All you’ll need is a soft brush and lukewarm water with a splash of soap to get started. If you notice damage during your cleanings, you can call a siding repair specialist, such as Top Form Contracting. 

Fiber-Cement Siding

Fiber-cement siding contains a combination of cement, cellulose fibers, sand, and water. Together, these materials provide the highest level of durability, flexibility, and protection. We often use fiber-cement siding on residential homes and commercial properties since it is long lasting, economical, and easy to maintain. 

Here are some other advantages of fiber-cement siding: 

  • Unlike wood siding, it’s impervious to fire, moisture, temperature changes, and insects. 
  • It’s significantly lighter than brick and stone. 
  • Fiber-cement siding typically comes in clapboard and shingles, which can be painted.
  • It can emulate wood and other textures. 

What are the disadvantages of fiber-cement siding? All in all, it’s an incredible type of siding. However, it can cost more to install than other types of siding, aside from wood siding. Of course, this may pay off in the long run, as fiber-cement siding may also require less maintenance than alternatives.

At Top Form Contracting, we offer James Hardie fiber-cement siding, which is one of the world’s leading siding options. It’s known for its pristine quality and for being long lasting. (Learn more about our siding installation services.)

Siding installation contractor

Is Fiber-Cement Siding Better Than Wood?

Both are great siding options. However, fiber-cement siding has been shown to stand up better against the elements and time. That means that if you value durability, fiber cement is a wonderful choice.

Is Wood Siding Cheaper Than Fiber Cement?

Generally, wood siding costs more than fiber-cement siding. However, the exact price varies based on many factors, such as who you choose to install your house siding and the amount of siding you need. It’s important to get a quote from your siding company before the installation so that you can ensure the job is within your budget. 

At Top Form Contracting, wood siding repairs can range from $500 to $2,000 or more based on your needs. Fiber-cement siding repairs could be anywhere from $800 to $1,400 depending on the issue. Learn more about how we calculate the cost of siding repairs. 

Schedule Your New Siding Installation Today | Albany, OR

Still deciding between wood siding vs. fiber-cement siding? No worries! Top Form Contracting is Albany’s top choice for siding installations, and we’d be happy to help you figure out which option is best for your home or commercial building. We’re a local, family-owned business committed to providing optimal siding services to homeowners and business owners in Oregon. Let’s work together. 

Contact us online here, or call us today at (541) 926-4597 to request a free siding installation quote.

Should I Get a Dry Rot Repair or Replacement?

Should I Get a Dry Rot Repair or Replacement?

by | Jan 21, 2022 | Dry Rot, Remodeling Tips and Tricks

Should I Get a Dry Rot Repair or Replacement?

Dry rot on a home

If the wood on your home feels squishy or looks decayed, you could have a dry rot situation on your hands. (Some other signs of dry rot include the smell of mildew or orange-brown spots or pieces of gray on the wood.)

This fungus moves fast from one part of a home to another, inching closer to areas of moisture. It is vital to fix dry rot right away to preserve the remaining wood and keep your home safe and intact. 

Here at Top Form Contracting, we are experts in spotting dry rot and alerting our clients on the best course of action. In this blog, we’ll cover when it’s time for a dry rot repair or replacement so that you know what to do next.

DRY ROT REPAIR VS. REPLACEMENT

Dry rot expands at an alarming rate–as much as 80 mm daily. While it needs some moisture to grow, there doesn’t have to be much of it. In fact, as little as 30 percent moisture in a given area is the prime breeding ground for dry rot. Also, it only needs to be about 66 to 70 degrees.

It is generally safe to repair dry rot, but there are times when a replacement is in order. In either case, it is important to work with a professional who has the expertise to get the job done right. This can ensure your home is safe, as is everyone who lives in the home. 

WHEN TO GET A DRY ROT REPAIR

If the wood is intact and sturdy with just one or two tiny rotted spots, a repair could be all you need. Dry rot repairs are also generally sufficient if the dry rot affects the siding or roof, as they do not affect your home’s structure. 

As long as the dry rot is new, it shouldn’t be too difficult to repair. However, if it’s left for an extended period, it can move to the framing and cause you to have to consider other options. (The right contractor will know how to repair rotting wood without replacing it.)

Just remember that you must get rid of the dry rot and any damage completely before starting the repair process. (Have questions about how to prevent dry rot? Check out our blog here.)

WHEN TO GET A DRY ROT REPLACEMENT

It’s true that dry rot is generally safe to repair. However, it’s a good idea to replace the wood affected by dry rot if it is vital to your home’s structure. Some examples include beams and floorboards–in addition to framing. 

Why is it important to replace the wood if dry rot affects these places? As we mentioned before, dry rot is a fungus, meaning that it starts small and enlarges fast, moving throughout your home. If you wait to replace the wood until it’s too late, the dry rot can cause great damage and lead to high repair costs.

At Top Form Contracting, we aim to help you avoid structural damage by repairing the wood or replacing the wood–whatever is necessary for a given circumstance. Our team will ensure that you never have to stress about whether the dry rot is gone. You can trust that we’ll handle it.

Repairing rotted wood

GET A FREE ESTIMATE TODAY FROM OUR DRY ROT REPAIR CONTRACTORS IN ALBANY, OR

Whether you’re due for a dry rot repair or replacement, the first thing to do is remove any dry rot present in or on your home. A professional dry rot repair specialist, such as ourselves, can take care of this for you, making sure that no dry rot is left behind that could damage your home. 

Rotted wood can indeed be repaired, but we don’t recommend treating it yourself. Instead of figuring out the specifics on how to remove dry rot safely, solicit the help of a friendly local contractor. 

Top Form Contracting offers multiple years of experience in dry rot fixes, and we’d be happy to come to your home and let you know the damage. Then, if you’d like us to move forward with the repair, just ask. We’re here to help. 

Need an affordable contractor who can take care of your dry rot repairs? Top Form Contracting is the place to call. Reach out to our Albany-based team online today, or give us a call at (541) 926-4597 for a free estimate. 

Dry Rot Fixes: What We Do and Why It’s Important

Dry Rot Fixes: What We Do and Why It’s Important

by | Jan 12, 2022 | Dry Rot, Remodeling Tips and Tricks

DRY ROT FIXES: WHAT WE DO AND WHY IT’S IMPORTANT

Dry rot on wood
Dry rot is a form of fungal growth that affects both homes and businesses. It proliferates in humid areas, causing timber decay, which weakens a building’s structure.

Fortunately, there are noticeable, telltale signs of this fungal infestation, and dry rot fixes and treatment are possible in the hands of highly qualified experts. Identifying its presence early on can help treatment programs to be more cost-effective.

Read on to understand how to identify dry rot and what measures experts take to repair this problem.

DRY ROT FIXES: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

Dry rot appears when particular types of fungus infect the wood in your home, stripping away its toughness. It’s a common problem in the Pacific Northwest since fungus thrives in moist environments.

Infected wood can be challenging to detect because it commonly appears beneath floorboards and behind plaster. It can also materialize on timber in your patio, attic, roof, deck, or outdoor steps.

Since dry rot can appear so easily on wood, it is important to be aware of the ins and outs of dry rot fixes. 

CAUSES OF DRY ROT

Lack of ventilation and humidity of around 18 to 30 percent can create the ideal damp environment for fungus and, ultimately, dry rot. Your home might be susceptible to dry rot issues if the following conditions are present:

  • Presence of moisture in the environment
  • Timber material used in the home
  • Inadequate ventilation
  • Dry rot spores*

*Dry rot spores are usually harmless and present in most homes, but if your property has wood and a moist environment, the fungus can multiply and develop into a dry rot infestation.

HOW TO IDENTIFY DRY ROT

Detecting dry rot in the beginning stages is critical for lowering repair costs and reducing the level of damage to your home. The best thing to do is walk around your property and look for signs so that you can take action.

The wood in your house could be experiencing dry rot if you notice the following:

  • A damp, musty odor
  • Brittle, dry, and powdery-looking wood
  • Gray, silk-like strands coating the timber
  • Concentrated patches of spore dust
  • Mushroom-like fruiting bodies

Want the best dry rot prevention tips? Check out our blog here. 

HOW TO REPAIR ROTTING WOOD WITHOUT REPLACING IT 

Once you identify dry rot in your home, you must act fast. If you don’t, the infection can spread further and severely damage your home’s foundation and structure.

While you must act immediately to repair rotting wood in your home, you shouldn’t panic. Even if you can’t locate the moisture source causing the dry rot, professional dry rot repair contractors, such Top Form Contracting in Albany, OR, can help.

It’s always best to trust the experts who know how to fix dry rot siding and offer you the best solutions, from locating the source of the moisture to taking care of the repairs.

As your dry rot repair experts, we will first analyze if it’s possible to repair the compromised timber or if it needs complete removal. If it only needs a repair, we will present you with a suitable treatment plan. Then, we will start by using fungicidal spray on the affected areas to repair the decorative wood and structural timber.

Repairing wood affected by dry rot

CONSULT ONE OF THE TOP DRY ROT REPAIR CONTRACTORS IN ALBANY TODAY

Living with dry rot is not an option. Get help from experienced professionals who can deliver quality dry rot fixes and restore that area of your property to its former glory.

Don’t attempt to fix your home’s dry rot issue yourself. Top Form Contracting is here to help. Contact us today for a free estimate.

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