Full Exterior Siding Transformation
Aging aluminum siding replaced with James Hardie fiber cement clapboard. New house wrap, insulation, and trim work transformed this 1978 ranch into a modern, energy-efficient home.
$24,000
Budget
8 days
Timeline
76%
Est. ROI
1,800 sq ft exterior
Exterior Size
The Challenge
The homeowners of this 1978 Raised Ranch in Quakertown had the original aluminum siding which was dented, faded, and allowed significant air infiltration. Their energy bills were high, and the curb appeal was outdated.
Multiple spots showed moisture infiltration behind the siding where the original house wrap had deteriorated. Wood trim around windows and the garage was rotting.
They wanted a low-maintenance, durable exterior that would modernize the home's appearance and improve energy efficiency — all before winter.
Our Solution
We designed a comprehensive exterior renovation plan that addressed every layer — from sheathing repairs to a premium fiber cement finish — ensuring long-term durability and energy efficiency.
Remove existing aluminum siding and deteriorated house wrap
Inspect and repair sheathing (replaced 8 sections with new OSB)
Install DuPont Tyvek HomeWrap weather barrier
Install 1/2" foam insulation board for improved R-value
Install James Hardie HardiePlank fiber cement clapboard (Arctic White)
Replace all exterior window and door trim with Hardie Trim
New aluminum-wrapped fascia and soffit panels
Replace deteriorated garage door trim and header
Caulk and seal all penetrations, windows, and transitions
Two-coat Sherwin-Williams exterior paint on all trim (Iron Ore accent)
Cost Breakdown
Final project cost: $23,400 (under the $24,000 budget).
Project Timeline
Days 1-2
Removal of existing siding, house wrap, and damaged sheathing. Inspect and repair
Days 3-4
Install Tyvek HomeWrap, foam insulation board, and starter strips
Days 5-6
HardiePlank siding installation (front and sides)
Day 7
Rear wall completion, all trim installation
Day 8
Caulking, touch-up painting, final inspection, cleanup
“It looks like a completely different house. Our neighbors keep stopping to compliment the new look, and our heating bill dropped by about 20% the first winter. We should have done this years ago.”
— Homeowner, Quakertown, PA
Key Takeaways for Homeowners
Fiber Cement Outlasts Vinyl
James Hardie siding carries a 30-year warranty, resists impact, doesn't melt near grills, and holds paint far longer than vinyl. The upfront cost is 15-20% more, but the 50+ year lifespan makes it the better investment.
Don't Skip the House Wrap
The original 1978 building paper had completely deteriorated. New Tyvek HomeWrap blocks water while allowing vapor to escape — preventing the moisture issues that rotted the original trim.
Insulation Board Pays for Itself
Adding 1/2" foam board behind the siding cost $1,400 but improved the wall's R-value significantly. The homeowner saw a 20% reduction in heating costs — the insulation will pay for itself in under 5 years.
Color Choice Matters
Arctic White siding with Iron Ore trim creates a timeless look. We advised against trendy colors that might feel dated in 5 years. Classic combinations help with resale value and neighborhood compatibility.
Project Details
Project Type
Siding Installation
Location
Quakertown, PA
Budget
$24,000
Actual Cost
$23,400
Timeline
8 days
Exterior Size
1,800 sq ft exterior
Home Type
1978 Raised Ranch
Started
August 2025
Completed
August 2025
Ready to Transform Your Home's Exterior?
Get a free, detailed estimate for your siding installation. We serve Quakertown, Bucks County, and all of PA & NJ.
Vincent Karaca
Founder Vincent Karaca brings over 23 years of hands-on field experience to every project. He is a master of structural remodeling and is personally committed to transparent, honest contracting. Licensed PA HIC #158550 & NJ HIC #13VH11744800.