FAQ

FAQs

Southside Exteriors

Have a roofing, window, door or siding-related question? We have the answer. Check out these FAQs and give us a call today for more information!

  • How do I decide which siding material to use?

    There are several choices when siding your home. From traditional wood siding to more advanced materials like fiber cement, what’s best for your home depends on many factors including how long you plan to remain in your home, weather conditions, budget, and your tolerance for maintenance.

  • Wouldn’t it be cheaper to continue painting my wood siding?

    Compared to the cost of painting your home every few years, which could add up to more than $50,000 over the life of your home, low-maintenance siding is the best option. Service life is counted in decades so your initial investment in siding your home will be paid back fast.

  • Does vinyl siding require maintenance?

    You should wash vinyl occasionally with mild soap and a garden hose to keep it looking its best.

  • What is insulated vinyl siding?

    Insulated siding has a layer of strong foam insulation attached to the back of the siding panel. The extra layer keeps your home warmer during winter nights and cooler during the summer months. This translates into lower monthly energy bills that over the life of the siding will save you a lot of money.

  • What is fiber cement siding and how is it made?

    Is made of wood fiber, Portland cement, sand and water. The fiber cement mixture is molded and cured under high heat to create a look like wood but lasts longer with minimal maintenance required.

  • How long does fiber cement siding last?

    James Hardie fiber cement siding provides a warranty of 30 or 50 years if it is installed by a certified contractor. When properly maintained, it can last much longer.

  • Do you offer matching trim and accessories for my siding installation?

    Yes. We offer a variety of trim packages to match the aesthetics of your siding and your home.

  • How much money will I get from my insurance company?

    The value of the claim will be made by your insurance company based on a report from the insurance adjuster. The amount to be paid depends on the age of your roof. It may be less than the full cost of repair or replacement because of depreciation. Sometimes, this figure can be negotiated.

  • I got several estimates to repair my roof but they vary widely. Why?

    Make sure all the estimates offer the same quality of materials and workmanship before you make any decision. One contractor might suggest using 25-year shingles while another may offer installation of a 50-year shingle for a bit more money. Make sure you get the most for your money.

  • What are the signs a roof needs to be replaced?

    Leaks, missing or torn shingles, loose flashings, excessive shingle granules in gutters, and ceiling spots can signal roof problems. Age is another indicator; if your roof is 20 years old, it could be at the end of its lifespan.


  • My roof is leaking. Do I need to have it completely replaced?

    Not necessarily. Our crews can often make repairs to extend the life of a roof that is otherwise in good condition. However, if a roof is demonstrating many symptoms of age and wear, replacement may be the only option.


  • How do I decide which roofing material to use?

    Choosing which type of roof is right for you will depend upon numerous factors, including your budget, taste and needs. Before making your choice, consider the lifecycle cost of your roofing material. Some materials, although initially more expensive, require less maintenance and have a longer life expectancy than others. An asphalt shingle roof might last 20 years, but a metal roof can last more than 50 and might be more cost-effective in the long run.

  • How do I know if I have hail damage to my roof?

    You may be able to see severe hail strikes from the ground, but most often hail damage is not visible to the untrained eye. If you’ve experienced hail in your area, call Southside Exteriors to schedule a professional inspection.

  • What is an ice dam?

    Ice dams are formed by the thawing and freezing of melted snow at the eaves. The ice dam can force water up and under shingles, causing leaks. In areas where winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing, ice dams can cause serious and expensive damage to a roof and the structure of a home.

  • How long do asphalt shingles last?

    Shingles come in different grades. The better the grade, the longer the life expectancy, which can range from 15 to more than 40 years.

  • What is the lifespan of a metal roof?

    New alloys and coatings make metal roofing panels more durable, with extended lifecycles that exceed those of shingles or shakes. Today’s metal roofs can be expected to last at least 50 years.

  • How long will it take to replace my roof?

    Most residential roofing jobs can be completed in a single day. If a roof takes more than one day, we clean and secure the site at the end of each day and take care to protect any vulnerable areas from the weather.

  • Will you clean up after my roofing project?

    Yes. At the end of the job, we conduct a thorough clean-up and walk-through. You approve the final cleaning upon completion, and we won’t leave until you are happy!

  • Will my insurance company pay for a new roof?

    Your insurance company will pay for damage that is the result of an act of nature or accident, such as a hailstorm, hurricane, tornado, falling branches or debris, or other incident.

  • Who should I call first if I think my roof is damaged, Southside Exteriors or my insurance company?

    First call Southside Exteriors to inspect your roof and document damage, including a written description and digital photographs. We can help you determine if there is enough damage to warrant an insurance claim. If so, we can speed up the process and get your roof restored quickly.

  • Can you represent me during the insurance inspection?

    Yes, our inspector can be on hand when your insurance adjuster arrives to inspect the damage and make sure all areas of concern are included in the final report. This ensures you get all the compensation you need for quality repairs.


  • Why should I consider getting replacement windows?

    According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the average home loses more than 30% of its heat through windows. Modern replacement windows are durable and help to lower monthly energy costs, increase the value of your home, reduce maintenance hassles and add beauty to the interior and exterior.

  • Do replacement windows really pay for themselves?

    It’s true if you select high-quality, energy-efficient windows. Replacement windows with insulated frames and energy-efficient glass packages can prevent the transfer of heat and cold into and out of your home all year long. With vinyl or fiberglass windows, maintenance is virtually eliminated – no need to scrape or paint. These energy and maintenance savings may allow you to recoup your window investment within a few years.

  • How do I know if a window is energy-efficient?

    Any replacement window you purchase should come with a label from the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). The NFRC conducts testing and has established industry standards for rating the energy performance of replacement windows. Window manufacturers participating in the program are required to label every window according to its specific thermal performance level. Customers are then assured that the products they select meet the requirements for their application.

  • What window frame material is the most energy-efficient?

    Vinyl or fiberglass window frames with multi-chambered construction and fusion-welded corners are the most energy-efficient available. Insulated frames are especially effective when combined with a Low-E glass package.

  • What is insulated glass?

    Double-pane and triple-pane windows create layers of insulation. In general, the more airspace there is between panes, the better the window’s insulative value. Inert gas fills, such as argon or krypton, slow the transfer of heat or cold into your home. Controlling the amount of convection between the panes of glass means you’ll need less energy to heat or cool your home.

  • What is Low-E glass?

    Among the best options you can have on your windows is a Low-E coating. “Low-E” is short for low emissivity. Low-E glass has a very thin coat of metal on the glass surface to reflect heat, keeping exterior heat out in the summer and interior heat inside in the winter. Low-E glass can also prevent furniture and carpet fading by reducing the amount of ultraviolet radiation that enters your home.

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