Building a new home is exciting, but it also comes with lots of questions. One of the most common is: when does the siding go on? If you’re working with an Elm Grove siding contractor, you’ll want to know where this step fits into the construction timeline. The short answer: siding is usually installed after the roof and before most of the interior finishes. This timing ensures your home is protected from the weather while construction continues inside.
Below, we’ll walk through the 7 main steps of siding installation and explain how it fits into the bigger picture of new construction.
1. Pre-Siding Preparation
Before siding can begin, the foundation and framing must be complete. At this stage, builders install the roof, windows, and doors to create a weatherproof shell. A protective house wrap or barrier is then applied to stop moisture from seeping in. These steps prepare the structure so the siding can be installed properly.
2. Material Delivery and Site Setup
Once the home is ready, siding materials are delivered to the job site. Contractors inspect each piece to make sure there are no defects. The work area is cleared, and scaffolding or ladders are set up so the crew can safely access every part of the home. A well-organized site helps the project move forward without delays.
3. Starter Strip Installation
The siding process begins with the starter strip. This strip is installed at the base of the wall and serves as the guide for the first row of siding. If the starter strip isn’t level, the whole siding job can look crooked, so contractors take extra care during this step.
4. Installing Trim and Channels
Next, trim pieces and J-channels are added around windows, doors, and corners. These not only give the home a clean, finished look but also direct water away from vulnerable areas. Proper trim and flashing are key to protecting your home from future moisture damage.
5. First Course of Siding
Using the starter strip as a guide, the first course of siding is installed. This step takes extra time because accuracy here determines how straight the entire siding job looks. Precision tools like levels and string lines are often used to get this row perfect.
6. Adding Subsequent Courses
Once the first course is set, the rest of the siding is installed row by row, moving up the wall. Each panel overlaps the one below it to form a weather-resistant barrier. Contractors check alignment often to make sure the rows stay straight all the way to the top.
7. Final Touches and Inspection
The last stage includes adding finishing trim, flashing, and sealants around edges and openings. Afterward, the siding is inspected for secure fastening, proper alignment, and weatherproofing. The crew also cleans up the site so the home looks neat and ready for the next phase of construction.
Why Timing Matters
Siding usually goes on between weeks 12 and 16 of construction, though this can vary depending on the size of the home and local weather. Installing siding at the right time protects the structure from moisture while allowing interior work like drywall, flooring, and painting to move forward safely.
Delays can happen due to weather, inspection requirements, or material delivery issues, but planning ahead helps keep the project on track.
Final Thoughts
Siding plays an important role in protecting your home and boosting its curb appeal. Knowing when it goes on during construction and what steps are involved helps you feel more prepared as your home takes shape. By working closely with your builder and staying informed, you can be confident your siding will be installed at the right time and with the right care.
