When it comes to maintaining the charm and curb appeal of your home, matching new and old siding materials is a challenge. Finding the right match takes careful planning, an eye for detail, and the siding expertise that RoofPRO brings to the table.
Let’s explore what makes this process tricky and how you can tackle it step by step.
Why Matching Siding Matters
Have you ever seen a home where one section of the siding stands out awkwardly from the rest? We’ve seen some siding replacements that look like a patchwork quilt of mismatched colors and textures.
Properly matching old and new siding prevents your home from looking patchy or incomplete, which can be especially important if you’re planning to sell. A uniform appearance reassures potential buyers of your home’s well-maintained condition.
Where to Start When Matching Siding
Before you can find a match, you need to know what you’re dealing with. Think of it like solving a puzzle, every piece counts.
Your Old Siding Material
Is your siding fiber cement, wood, vinyl, or something else entirely? Vinyl is the most common siding options for Maryland homes, but wood and fiber cement are also popular. Identifying the material sets the stage for narrowing your options. Check leftover materials or invoices from the original installation. These often provide details about the siding’s make and model, with additional attention to texture, grain, and color.
Check the Back of Your Siding
Believe it or not, your siding might hold the answers you’re looking for. Most manufacturers stamp their branding and product line information on the back of their panels. This little detective work can save you hours of guesswork.
Manufacturer Sample Books and Color Tools
Manufacturers also provide tools to make matching easier. Siding color sample books and swatches can be handy for comparing your old siding’s shade with modern options. However, keep in mind that years of sun exposure can alter the original color of your siding.
Key Details to Measure and Observe
Matching siding is more than just picking the right color swatch. The details matter—big time.
Vertical Length
Siding isn’t just about looks, the precise dimensions matter too. The vertical length and style of your siding can make or break a match.
Ever notice that some Dutch lap siding has a bend halfway down? While it looks the same at a glance, the bend might be 1.5 inches down on one brand but 2 inches on another. Measure carefully, small differences can stand out.
Grain Texture
Vinyl siding is often designed to mimic wood, which means the grain pattern varies by manufacturer. One panel might have a deep, textured grain, while another has a subtler, smoother finish. When matching siding, these nuances are as important as color.
Thickness
The bottom latch where siding pieces interlock can vary in thickness. A straight lap siding might have one version that’s ½ inch thick and another that’s ¾ inch thick. This can make or break a match, especially if you’re trying to interlock new and old panels.
Hire a Professional Installer
If you’ve found the perfect replacement materials, it is time to make the swap. For the best results, consider hiring a professional siding contractor. Experienced professionals have the tools and expertise to:
- Provide advice on blending or replacing large sections for a seamless look
- Ensure proper alignment of the new siding with the existing material
- Avoid gaps, warping, or uneven placement
Our team specializes in matching new and old siding, no matter the material or condition. With RoofPRO, you can trust that your home’s exterior will look flawless and stay protected for years to come. We’ve helped Maryland homeowners successfully match and replace their siding for over 20 years.
Understanding Challenges in Siding Matching
Matching old siding isn’t always a straightforward process for homeowners. Siding manufacturers constantly change their offerings. Lines are discontinued, styles evolve, and even the colors may not be what they were five years ago. Homeowners often find themselves in a sticky situation when their exact siding type isn’t available anymore.
Color Matching Challenges
Sun-faded siding can make color matching feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. That “perfect match” you see in a sample book might not look so perfect once installed.
- Find Hidden Colors: Check areas shielded from the sun, like behind bushes or where siding overlaps. These spots retain the original color and can guide your choice.
- Use Technology: Some hardware stores and manufacturers offer digital color-matching tools. While not foolproof, they’re a great starting point.
Texture and Style Considerations
Whether your home features clapboard, board-and-batten, or cedar shakes, matching the pattern ensures a consistent look. If your original siding has a specific style, such as wood-mimicking grain, make sure the replacement shares the same aesthetic. Texture also plays a big role in how light interacts with your siding, so even a slight difference can stand out.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Matching siding can be tricky, and there are plenty of pitfalls along the way. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:
- Ignoring Material Differences: Not all siding materials age the same way.
- Overlooking Color and Lighting Variations: Lighting conditions can affect how colors appear. Always check samples in natural light at multiple times throughout the day before making a final decision.
- Skipping Detailed Measurements: Small discrepancies in dimensions or thickness can lead to installation issues. Measure twice, install once!
Frequently Asked Questions
Costs vary based on material and labor but are generally more affordable than full replacement.
Check your policy. Some insurance plans cover siding replacement for damage but may not guarantee a match.
Alternative Solutions for Siding Matching
Sometimes, finding a perfect match just isn’t in the cards. But don’t worry—there are creative solutions to make your siding blend beautifully.
Borrowing Siding from Less Visible Areas
One clever trick is to remove siding from less visible parts of your house, like the back or a side hidden by landscaping. Use this to repair or replace more prominent sections, then replace the hidden area with new siding. This way, the new siding isn’t front and center, and your home’s curb appeal remains intact.
Blending Old and New with Intentional Design
Another option is to lean into the difference. Use a complementary color or texture as an accent. For example, if you can’t match the siding, consider installing decorative vertical siding panels or a contrasting panel style. This creates a unique feature that looks deliberate rather than mismatched.
Match for Style and Texture Then Paint Your Siding
If you can’t find the right color to match your current siding, you can match for style and texture then simply repaint the exterior of your home so that the color is consistent.
Upgrade Instead of Repair
If you’ve tried everything and still can’t get a perfect match, consider this an opportunity to upgrade. Modern siding options offer improved durability, energy efficiency, and a wider range of styles.
Why RoofPRO is Your Siding Matching Expert
Don’t settle for mismatched siding. Our team knows the ins and outs of material sourcing, from tracking down discontinued lines to recommending modern alternatives that complement your home’s style.
Matching new siding and old can be a complex process, but with careful planning and attention to detail, it’s possible to achieve a seamless result. For expert guidance and professional installation, RoofPRO is here to help. Contact us today to discuss your siding needs and get a free consultation. Let us help you protect and beautify your home for years to come.
