Siding FAQ

FAQ About Siding from Eastern Massachusetts Homeowners

As a homeowner it is natural that you want to be fully informed on a remodeling material before you have it installed onto your home. At Hi-Tech Windows & Siding, we’ve taken the questions we hear most often about siding from Haverhill area homeowners and compiled them here. If you have any further questions, we encourage you to call us or request a quote today.

What is vinyl siding?
Vinyl siding was introduced in the 1950s as an alternative to aluminum or wooden siding. It is the most frequently used siding option in the United States today. Vinyl siding available in a variety of colors and styles, and is designed to be durable and energy efficient. It is also extremely easy to install and maintain.

Is vinyl siding durable/weather resistant?
Vinyl siding is manufactured to last a very long time. Warranties for vinyl siding can range from 20-40 years depending on the thickness with many manufacturers now offering lifetime warranties that can be transferred to the next owner. Vinyl siding is resistant to heat, cold, and moisture and is certified to withstand winds up to 110 miles per hour.

What is fiber cement siding and how is it made?
Fiber cement siding is made from cement, wood fiber (cellulose), sand and other components. Fiber cement siding can be manufactured to have the realistic appearance of wood, stucco or masonry. In appearance, fiber cement siding most often consists of overlapping horizontal boards imitating wooden siding, clapboard and shingles. James Hardie fiber cement siding is a growing choice for siding in Boston and throughout the country, and our staff is fully certified to install it.

How long does fiber cement siding last?
Fiber cement siding is designed to be of superior strength and weatherability. It is termite resistant, water resistant, non-combustible and can be warranted for as long as 50 years. James Hardie fiber cement siding is the highest quality available, and Hi-Tech Windows & Siding is factory-certified to install it on local homes.

What is cedar shake siding?
Cedar shake siding is a natural material made from cedar wood. It provides a very traditional look on a home. At Hi-Tech Windows & Siding we also install vinyl siding that is designed to simulate the look of cedar shake, but without the maintenance requirements.

Is there a lot of maintenance involved with cedar shake siding?
Cedar shake siding requires some maintenance to retain its beautiful look. As an alternative, vinyl cedar shake siding is a low-maintenance product that retains its great looks with virtually no maintenance.