Many Canadians think that once winter arrives, they’ve missed their timing window for exterior home improvement projects. However, there are still opportunities to get the work done. In fact, you might find that winter is the best time of year to tackle exterior upgrades, as it doesn’t interfere with the enjoyment of your outdoor living space when the weather is warm. Here’s why siding your home in winter can work to your advantage.

1. Outdoor Living Isn’t Interrupted

Canadian homeowners tend to make the most of their summers. The trend towards outdoor living spaces is more evident than ever with people investing in outdoor entertainment units, fireplaces, swimming pools, kitchens, and dining areas. The more time spent outside the better. If you save your siding and exterior home renovation projects until the summer, the noise and mess can interfere with your outdoor enjoyment. If you are siding your home in winter however, you remain snug and comfy indoors, so your life is not interrupted in the least.

2. Safer Gardens

If you are an avid gardener, you want to spend as much time tending to your garden as possible. This involves work throughout much of the year with plants requiring your attention in the spring, summer, and fall. However, once winter rolls around it’s time to relax. If your siding project is timed right, winter is the best choice for you. Your plants are dormant so are not in danger of damage. As well, you won’t feel stressed worrying about getting out there to water, weed or simply enjoy your garden. All the work on your home is done in the colder season while you’re taking a break, and you can get back to gardening once the spring rolls around again.

3. Easier Scheduling

Because most people in Ontario turn their home renovation efforts to the indoors in winter, exterior contractors have a lot more spare time. This means you can schedule them at your convenience and see your siding project complete to suit your needs. Winter siding installation is not in high demand so you might even find your contractor is more accommodating.

4. Weather-Related Delays

The only real weather-related danger to siding your home in winter is the threat of high winds. As you can imagine, the length of the siding being installed would be hard to manage even in average winds. In this case, your installer would have to reschedule once those high winds calm down. However, since winter siding installation isn’t in high demand you won’t have to wait too long. Summer rain delays, on the other hand, can really impact a contractor’s schedule. If they experience day after day of rain it can have a domino effect, with one after the other home project being pushed further and further out.

5. Improved Energy Efficiency

What better time to arrange for siding than the winter, when cold wind leaks can reduce your home’s energy efficiency? Since new aluminum or vinyl siding can make your home extremely energy efficient, it just makes sense to get it done when the temperatures drop. You can save money on your heating costs and once summer arrives you are ready to enjoy reductions in cooling costs as well. With new siding, the heat from your furnace won’t escape. Foam-backed vinyl siding is engineered for extreme sub-zero temperatures. It’s like wrapping your home in a toasty warm sweater to keep you cozy all winter long.

6. No Delays Due To Material Shortages

During the busy season you might be more likely to experience delays due to material shortages. With contractors throughout your area booked solid for siding installation projects during the summer months, it can interfere with the availability of some materials. Siding your home in winter however, means demand drops so you are not likely competing with other homeowners all trying to schedule the same types of projects at the same time.

7. Spotting Winter Damage

As a bonus, your installers might spot risky damage on your home that could lead to winter leaks. Since they are working on your home exterior, they might notice things such as ice dams, blocked gutters or damage to soffits and fascia that can make your roof more vulnerable to winter weather. These issues can be addressed, and repairs can be made before serious, costly damage can occur.

Do You Need New Siding?

It can be hard to tell if you need new siding. Other than wanting a new look for your home, some signs your siding might be getting old include:

• Discolouration such as fading, rust, or water stains
• Cracking
• Bubbling or peeling paint
• Rotting wood
• Mould growth such as black, green, or bluish discolouration
• Tiny holes and pockmarks in the siding
• Sagging paneling
• Loose panels
• Torn panels
• Leaking insulation between siding

All of these signs mean your siding is a little worse for wear and it may be time for replacement.

Benefits Of Replacing Siding

There are many benefits to replacing your siding:

• New Look: Your home will have improved curb appeal with new siding. You can choose a new look, colour, or even configuration that will provide a makeover for the exterior of your home. Newer materials will also provide a longer life for your home’s exterior, so your home maintains its value longer.
• Energy Savings: As mentioned above, new siding greatly improves the insulation of your home. Foam backing helps prevent warmth from exiting your home in the winter, while also keeping in cool air through the summer. It keeps the temperature comfortable in your home regardless of weather conditions outside. As a result, your energy bills will see savings throughout the year.
• Improved Structural Integrity: Siding protects your home and the more vulnerable materials below such as wood. If your siding is old, it can allow water and moisture to seep into the walls, leading to wood rot that can affect your home’s structural integrity. This can result in all kinds of costly issues, from the roof to the foundation. As well, moisture can cause mould growth inside the home which can lead to a long list of health issues for your family.
• Increased Resale Value: As mentioned above, new siding can improve curb appeal which can translate into more profit when it comes time to sell. When buyers see a home that is in excellent condition, they are inclined to make better offers, so you are more likely to see a better return on your investment.

If you are thinking of getting new siding, don’t put it off until the summer. Siding your home in winter is a great idea for many different reasons, ensuring a warmer winter indoors.

If you would like to get started on your winter siding installation, click here for a quote.