The Outside of Ashley And Ian’s Chicagoland
Home Had Multiple Issues. Our Custom
Re-Siding Plan Addressed Them All
At Apex Exteriors, Comprehensive Solutions
For Complex Problems Are Our Specialty
Siding replacement in the Chicagoland area is sometimes a fairly straightforward process. However, many local homeowners have more complicated problems that require a higher level of professional TLC.
This was the case for St. Charles residents Ashley and Ian S.
The couple’s older home not only had several built-up layers of damaged siding. It was at-risk for serious structural damage, with sizable gaps between the siding and its stone foundation.
Situations like these call for a comprehensive, customized solution from true exterior remodeling experts. Fortunately, Ashley and Ian hired Apex Exteriors for the job.
In no time, we developed a detailed plan that addressed every issue affecting the home’s exterior walls. We then carried out that plan with exceptional care and attention to detail.
The end result was an on-time project that restored the building’s beauty and weathertight function while wowing Ashley and Ian in more ways than one.
A Need For Siding Replacement Was Just The Beginning
Not long ago, a storm damaged the exterior of Ian and Ashley’s Chicago-area home. The building was already in need of help, but the couple now felt it was time to file an insurance claim.
In part, this claim focused on the recent wind and hail damage.
But the storm had also worsened the impact of another, longer-term issue – the widespread rot and decay of multiple layers of old siding.
These problems were highlighted for the insurance filing. But they weren’t the only concerns affecting the home’s exterior.
Water penetration through the damaged siding put the building’s underlying structure in danger. What’s more, gaps had formed at the connection point between the wooden frame and the home’s stone foundation.
These gaps provided ready entry for air drafts, as well as rodents and various insects.
The capper? Together, these issues left the home with a serious decline in general curb appeal. They also substantially lowered its potential resale value.
Ashley And Ian Set Goals For Their Chicagoland Project
With these factors figured in, Ashley and Ian set their goals for exterior renovation. For starters, they wanted a complete siding replacement. They needed their new siding to:
- Seal the building’s walls and boost its energy efficiency
- Meet the requirements of their insurance claim
- Restore their home’s curb appeal
They also wanted to seal the connection point between the building’s frame and foundation.
Importantly, they didn’t want to pursue these goals in a piecemeal fashion. They wanted to address them all at once as part of a comprehensive plan.
Apex’s Plan For The Required Exterior Services
We knew we’d need a multi-stage approach to help Ashley and Ian. This approach took all the couple’s wants and needs into account, beginning with the insurance claim.
Siding Inspection Review And Claim Support
By the time we came on board, Ashley and Ian’s insurance company had already assessed their siding damage. We reviewed this assessment to ensure its completeness. We also reviewed the couple’s overall claim to ensure its accuracy.
In addition, we worked directly with their insurance company. The result was a smooth process that helped Ashley and Ian fully utilize their coverage.
Assessing Other Aspects Of The Exterior Project
Per the couple’s request, we also took a close look at their home’s foundation. Our goal here was to identify every gap between it and the frame resting on it.
With this work done, we knew exactly what was needed to stop air drafts and vermin from entering.
Creating Our Exterior Restoration Plan
With all this information in mind, we created our comprehensive project plan. Steps in this plan included:
- Sealing the foundation with PROSOCO R-Guard liquid flashing membrane
- Removing every layer of siding and exposing the sheathing underneath
- Installing a water-resistive barrier/house wrap over the bare sheathing
- Installing James Hardie fiber cement siding on the home’s exterior
- Replacing the flashing required to seal all exterior openings
Each of these steps had its specific purpose. For example, removing old siding rather than adding more material over it is typically good practice.
A water-resistive barrier not only helps prevent moisture intrusion. It helps improve energy efficiency.
As for the siding itself, James Hardie is a renowned, superior product.
It’s both highly durable and available in a range of colors and styles. By replacing the building’s flashing, we would further help prevent water intrusion. And the foundation filler was essential to keeping air and vermin out.
Carrying Out Our Exterior Remodeling Work
When Ian and Ashley signed off on the plan, it was time to get started. At Apex, we’re well-known for our meticulous attention to detail.
This was essential for the removal of the Chicagoland building’s old siding.
That’s true because some of it contained lead paint. We’re certified to safely remove and dispose of this kind of material.
With the old siding out of the way, we proceeded with the remaining steps of the project. Gradually, every item on the couple’s checklist was tackled with our customary skill and professionalism.
The Renewed State Of The Couple’s Chicago-Area Home
How did Ian and Ashley’s project turn out? Every aspect was a rousing success.
With our help, the couple filed an insurance claim that completely paid for the required work.
We also eliminated their concerns about rot, structural problems, and moisture intrusion. What’s more, we eliminated all entry points for insects, rodents, and air drafts.
What about the siding replacement?
The expert use of James Hardie products not only created a durable, low-maintenance home exterior. It vastly improved the home’s curb appeal for decades to come.
Your All-Around Exterior Renovation Experts
Want this kind of renovation expertise for your siding replacement? Contact Apex Exteriors today for your free estimate. We’re your expert resource for all manner of local projects.
