Ready to Replace Your Siding? A Delmarva Homeowner's Guide to What's Next

A Rehoboth Beach, DE house receives a total exterior transformation by Pro Exteriors

Deciding it's time for new siding is a big first step. But what comes next?

You’ve made the call—the old siding is coming off. So what are the next steps?

We sat down with Pro Exteriors’ own Aaron Rogers to get answers to the questions homeowners most frequently ask when they’re ready for their siding replacement project. Here’s what he had to say.

Don’t Just Cover Up Problems: The Importance of a Proper Tear-Off

“We’re always going to try and go back to the original sheathing of the house,”

Many homeowners believe a siding replacement simply means pulling off the old vinyl and nailing up the new. A reputable professional, however, knows the job is much more involved.

According to Aaron, a proper siding replacement should always begin with a complete tear-off. “We’re always going to try and go back to the original sheathing of the house,” he explains. This means stripping the house down to its bones so that a thorough inspection can be done.

Why is this so critical? The sheathing, or what’s underneath your siding, is the true foundation of your home's exterior protection. By removing the old house wrap and siding, a contractor can inspect for rot, water damage, and other issues that are often hidden from view.

"You don't know what you're covering up by putting this new product over the old stuff," Aaron warns. This is especially important for houses built before the early 2000s, as building codes have evolved to better protect against air and water leaks. A professional can recommend an updated house wrap and even exterior insulation to improve your home's energy efficiency.

“By removing the old house wrap and siding, a contractor can inspect for rot, water damage, and other issues that are often hidden from view.”

Choosing the Right Material for Your Home

Once you know the process, it's time to consider the product. With a wide range of options—from vinyl to fiber cement to cedar—how do you choose?

Aaron suggests a simple rule of thumb: match the material to your home’s value. "If you live in a $300,000 to $400,000 house, fiber cement siding or cedar is probably not the most realistic choice," he advises. Premium CertainTeed vinyl siding is a fantastic option that balances durability, cost, and aesthetics.

For homes valued at $600,000 and above, a premium siding like James Hardie fiber cement is a sound investment. However, even if you’re not ready to upgrade your entire home, you can still add curb appeal by using different materials as accent pieces. Installing vinyl shake or board and batten siding on a gable or dormer can create a beautiful visual dynamic without breaking the bank.

This Rehoboth Beach, DE house updated by beautiful CertainTeed Mainstreet vinyl siding

How to Vet and Hire the Right Contractor

This is perhaps the most important part of the entire process. A quality product is nothing without a quality installation. Here’s what Aaron says to look for when hiring a siding contractor:

• Manufacturer Certifications: Many top manufacturers like CertainTeed, Wolf, and James Hardie offer certifications to contractors who have met specific standards for installation. Don’t be afraid to ask if a company has them.

• Proof of Insurance and Licensing: This is non-negotiable. Request copies of their business license, contractor registration, and insurance policies, which should include general liability, auto liability, and workman's comp. A professional business will have these readily available.

• A Detailed Contract: The contract should be 100% specific. It should detail what materials will be used, what type of fasteners, and exactly what work will be performed. This protects you and holds the contractor accountable.

• Do Your Homework: Aaron recommends homeowners do their own research. "Go to Google and type in... [the product name] siding installation instructions," he says. This allows you to check if the installation is being done correctly and gives you the confidence to ask questions if you see a problem.

Budgeting for Your Siding Project

How much will it cost?

“…you should be prepared to budget at least $15,000 for a full tear-off and replacement. This base price can easily jump to $25,000 if you choose to include upgrades like new gutters or premium trim around windows and doors.”

While every project is different, Aaron provided some general cost estimates for a typical home siding replacement. For an average-sized home in Southern Delaware and on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, you should be prepared to budget at least $15,000 for a full tear-off and replacement. This base price can easily jump to $25,000 if you choose to include upgrades like new gutters or premium trim around windows and doors.

While that may seem like a lot, Aaron reminds us that the exterior of your home is its first line of defense against the elements. A proper siding replacement is not just an aesthetic upgrade—it's a critical investment that protects your home for decades to come. If your home is in need of a siding replacement but you haven’t budgeted for it, check to see if your contractor offers financing. Financing can allow you to get the needed work done now and break the cost down into manageable payments.

Get Professional Answers to Your Questions

We hope this short article has empowered you to tackle your siding project with confidence. By doing your homework, asking the right questions, and choosing a contractor who values quality, you can ensure your home is protected for years to come. To watch or listen to the entire conversation we had with Aaron, you can click here.

Do you have questions about an upcoming home exterior project? Email your questions to info@askproexteriors.com. 

Need a siding replacement? Find out why you should do it now by clicking here.