The Benefits & Differences of Choosing Fiber Cement

October 31, 2016 Doug Bennett

When choosing between a fiber cement siding and LP smart siding, it’s important to know your facts. For most, once you understand the strengths of each option, the best choice for your home will be obvious. To assist you in this process, All-Weather is giving you all the details you’ll need to make an informed decision.

The Benefits of Fiber Cement Siding & ColorPlus Technology

According to This Old House, fiber cement siding “might be your best siding option.” The major benefit of choosing fiber cement siding (pictured above) is certainly its durability. It masquerades as wood or masonry, wears like concrete, is not susceptible to warping, sagging, or cracking, and is fire resistant, which means it can survive even the harshest of elements.

This type of siding features a smoother woodgrain, or you can choose an option that features a completely smooth look. Our James Hardie fiber cement siding uses ColorPlus Technology, which means multiple coats of paint are applied and cured in between each coat for a strong bond that will last for years. This ColorPlus Technology gives homeowners the best choices in long-lasting color and comes with a 15-year warranty that covers paint and labor, protecting against peeling, cracking, and chipping.

The Benefits of LP SmartSide Siding & Diamond Kote Finish

Another great choice in upscale siding is our LP SmartSide siding (pictured above), which is quickly making a name for itself due to its extreme impact-resistance, and beautiful appearance which has a texture similar to beautiful cedar wood. Choosing LP SmartSide siding gives homeowners the added benefits of its unique Smartguard technology, as well as the option to finish it using the innovative Diamond Kote finish, which is sure to provide years of maintenance-free beauty.

Diamond Kote Finishing is a pre-finish applied to LP SmartSide siding with over 30 colors to choose from and a custom color option. The Diamond Kote Finish comes backed by a 30-year, No-Fade Warranty from Wausau Supply Company which ensures the long-lasting beauty of your siding.

The Difference Between Factory Primed vs. Factory Finished

Both choices in upscale siding come with the option to be either primed or factory finished. Factory primed means your siding will be installed by us, and once we are finished, it’s already primed and ready for your painter to apply paint.

On the other hand, factory finished means your siding comes completely painted and factory finished for long-lasting color and easy installation. Simply put, if your siding is factory finished when we’re finished with the installation, you’re finished too! Both choices of siding also provide the option for vertical siding or a stucco panel, as well as simulated wood shake shingles for a more Cape Cod or Victorian look.

The Good News: We Have Both!

The good news is that as one of the few companies that offer both options, All-Weather is uniquely equipped to help you decide which option is right for you. Make plans to visit our showroom and chat with our knowledgeable staff. They look forward to serving you!

If you have further questions about choosing siding, please feel free to contact us online or give us a call at (913) 262-4380. We look forward to hearing from you!

General News, Siding, Uncategorized

Choosing Your Home’s Siding Type

August 15, 2016 Doug Bennett

Are you looking to add maintenance-free siding to your home? Perhaps your siding has suffered from years of storm damage and needs to be replaced, or you just want a new look for your home. In either case, it’s important for homeowners to understand the difference between various siding choices, and the pros and cons for each, in order to make an informed decision.

All-Weather Window, Doors & Siding is dedicated to offering the highest quality siding solutions in Kansas City, which is why we’re breaking down all you need to know about our three most popular types of siding, best applications for each, and their pros and cons.

*All costs are based off the Homewyse 2016 building cost calculator set at 200 sq. ft. of basic quality materials in Kansas City.*

Fiber Cement Siding

This environmentally-friendly siding option is durable, incombustible, and impervious to rot and insects. Fiber cement siding is available prefinished and in a variety of different colors and textures; it can even mimic wood, stone, or brick. We offer the highest-quality options for fiber cement siding, and its durability is unparalleled.

Installation of this product requires specialized tools and the proper safety equipment. Maintenance requires a thorough power wash at least once a year. We also suggest having your siding experts check the seams every few years to determine if they need re-caulking.

The cost of fiber cement siding ranges from $5-$11 per square foot, according to Homewyse.

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding has improved tremendously since its inception. It’s generally more fade resistant and less susceptible to chips and cracks than other types of siding. However, it’s still important to choose a premium quality vinyl siding.

Vinyl siding comes in an extensive range of colors, although you won’t have as many choices as you would with paint. However, by choosing a siding that is permanently one color, you’ll never need to worry about gouges or scratches showing up as a different color underneath. Because of its versatility and range of colors, vinyl siding is a popular choice for many different styles of homes.

Maintenance is similar to that of fiber cement, which calls for a deep power washing each year to maintain a pristine look. It is also very important to check the seams of your vinyl siding and to re-caulk when necessary. Don’t forget proper insulation as well! A house with improperly insulated vinyl is like wearing a short-sleeved shirt in a blizzard, so it is crucial to make sure your vinyl siding is installed over adequate insulation.

Homewyse estimates the cost of vinyl siding at $4-$8 per square foot.

Engineered Wood Siding

Engineered wood siding is perfect for homeowners who want the appearance of real wood, but are looking for a more environmentally sustainable way to get it. You also have options for this type of siding to resemble materials such as cedar, stucco, stone or masonry.

Not only is this choice of siding more environmentally friendly, it’s also less expensive because it doesn’t require the extensive process to construct. This material is extremely durable and also much lighter than wood, which means easier handling.

After installation, engineered wood is close to maintenance-free because it doesn’t require repainting or refinishing. Similar to any other type of siding, it may be necessary to wash once a year, but this maintenance is preventative for ensuring your siding stays in good condition.

According to Homewyse, engineered wood siding ranges from $5-$11 per square foot and beyond for higher quality, specialty products.

Other Siding Factors to Consider

There are other factors to consider when choosing a siding such as ease of installation, durability, energy efficiency, ability to resist water over time, and your home’s need for fire resistance. Another important question to ask is whether or not you love the siding’s aesthetics. This will be a big factor in the style of your home, so don’t take this decision lightly.

As Kansas City’s trusted siding expert, All-Weather has the knowledge, experience, and professionalism to ensure a job you’ll be happy with for years to come. With over 30 years in the business and over 40,000 satisfied customers, we can guarantee we’ve got your back!

If your home is crying out for new siding, it’s time to contact All-Weather. And for more in-depth information on the high-quality siding we provide, click the button to the right to download our FREE Guide to Siding.

Siding

LP SmartSide vs James Hardie Siding Options

March 8, 2016 Doug Bennett

Move over Hulk Hogan, it’s time for the Kansas City siding showdown.

In the early 90s, our first team entered the ring: James Hardie. This Australian-based company is known for their fiber cement product, Hardie Board. Louisiana Pacific (LP) SmartSide joined the ring seven years later, and the fight was on. US-based, LP SmartSide, is notorious for their engineered wood that is moisture resistant.

So who is winning the siding showdown? Let All-Weather Window, Doors, & Siding break it down for you.

Round 1: The Siding Pros, Brother

Let the games begin! In the first round, Hardie Board made its grand entrance by displaying that it is both ASTM-rated for fire protection and non-combustible. The product also has a 15-year trim and 30-year siding warranty. LP SmartSide, however, had the audience roaring with its 50-year trim and 50-year siding warranty. Not to mention, it has had minimal issues reported when it comes to longevity and performance of the product. Round one ends in a tie.

Round 2: Bring on the Cons, Brother

The match intensified in round two. Hardie board showed that with improper installation it can flake and crack. Over time, it also becomes less resistant to impact. A right hook from items such as lawn mowers and baseballs can dent the product. LP SmartSide was knocked on its use of wood, which makes it less fire resistant. However, the LP SmartSide siding hit back with optional FlameBlock that adds fire resistance to the overall product.

And We Have a Winner…

Ding, ding, ding, James Hardie has been pinned by LP SmartSide! LP SmartSide’s longer warranties, impressive product performance and longevity, and FlameBlock resistance makes it the Siding Showdown champion.

Are you considering new siding for your home? Fill out All-Weather’s online scheduling form and we will talk over the best siding options for you!

Siding

Diamond Kote Pre-Finished Siding Will Impress

September 3, 2015 Doug Bennett

Siding isn’t something you change very often on your home. It’s a big decision that you’ll see every day for years on end. So do your research before you choose a siding option you’ll have to live with. All-Weather Window, Doors & Siding has been in the business of helping Kansas City homeowners install quality products that are beautiful and that stand up to the elements for more than 25 years. We only suggest products we know you’ll be happy with. One that we’ve recently added to our product line-up is Diamond Kote pre-finished siding in the Kansas City area. Here’s why we know you’ll love it.

Advanced Color Technology Keeps Siding Fade-Free

Diamond Kote’s pre-finished siding is specifically designed to hold up to the day-to-day elements. It starts by using only the purest raw materials, like naturally derived color pigments found in the earth. Then, a computer applied robotic spray guarantees an even coating of color. From there, a state-of-the-art oven curing process produces a durable, scratch-resistant finish. This process helps protect against blistering, peeling, and flaking for long-term, low-maintenance performance.

Custom Color for a Unique Look

And it’s not only the technology of Diamond Kote pre-finished siding that you’ll be impressed with, but you’ll also fall in love with your color options. Offering several color collection options, from neutrals to nature-inspired, to dramatic bold, to premium rustics, you’re sure to find a vibrant, rich, and luxe color that is perfect for your home. And if not, you’re in luck. Diamond Kote can also combine colors to create a custom blend just for you. The freedom to create your dream home is within arm’s reach.

Check out the amazing pre-finished siding options by Diamond Kote Siding at All-Weather Window, Doors & Siding today. Drop by one of our showrooms, or call us today at 913-262-4380 to set up an appointment or in-home consultation.

Doors, General News, Insulation, Siding, Windows

Doug’s Top Tips to Keep Your Home Cozier This Winter

December 29, 2014 Doug Bennett

Kansas City winters can be harsh and unforgiving. This year, don’t let the outside weather determine how comfortable you are in your own home. There are many factors that determine the comfort of your home, but many are small and easily overlooked. All-Weather Window, Doors & Siding’s President, Doug Bennett, lists off his top tips to keep your home cozy and comfortable this winter.

Reduce Window & Door Condensation

Condensation on windows and doors is often caused by poor insulation in these areas. It can also be a sign of high humidity levels. If your windows are in good shape but just have old glass, you might consider replacing the glass with more efficient energy saving low-E glass. If the condensation is between the panes, this is most likely due to a broken seal. We can replace the fogged glass with new clean class without having to replace the entire window in most cases.

Replace Damaged Weather-Stripping

Weather-stripping is an effective way to seal those nooks and crannies around doors and windows. But if you are able to see sunlight peaking around your door, or it’s leaking cold air into your home, you might need to adjust the door or install new weather-stripping. Weather-stripping can get smashed over time and lose its effectiveness. We can service you door or weatherstripping, which is something many window, door and siding companies do not offer.

Make Sure Storm Windows Are Closed & Windows Are Locked

Storm windows add another layer to your home that cold breezes can’t penetrate. If yours are broken or missing, call our repair shop. We can repair your old ones, or make you new ones. If your sashes are not locked, the weatherstripping cannot do it’s job.

Close Fireplace Doors & Flue

Lastly, close the doors and flues to your fireplaces when they are not being used. This will help reduce the drafts and keep heat loss to a minimum. An open flue will suck the heat right up your chimney. But always check to make sure you open them before kindling up a fire. Closed fireplace flues, when a fire is burning, can cause smoke and ash to overcome your home.

Call All-Weather Window, Doors & Siding to increase the comfort of your home today at (913) 262-4380.

Doors, Siding, Windows

3 Damage-Free Holiday Decorating Tips for Your Kansas City Home

December 10, 2014 Doug Bennett

Binder Clip Decorations We all love festive holiday decorations, but not the damage many of them leave behind. This year prevent injury to your home, and make the post-holiday cleanup a breeze. All-Weather Window, Doors & Siding gives you three damage-free decorating tips for the holiday season.

Use Binder Clips to Hang Lights on Your Roof

Put the staple gun down. Don’t be a Clark Griswold and end up stapled to your roof. There are more efficient, and less damaging ways hang your holiday lights from your roof. This may seem a little out of the box, but binder clips are actually a perfect partner for your lights. They are the perfect size to hold your lights in place, and are sturdy enough to keep them there all season. It also takes very little time to hang your lights with this technique. Plus, you’ll love the easy cleanup, and your perfectly intact roof when the holidays are over.

Try Zip Ties to Hang Decorations on Porch Railings

Leave the tape in your arts and crafts drawer, and forget about the hot glue gun. This year hang holiday garland or other holiday decorations from your porch railing without having to fix the damage when the holidays are over. Use clear zip ties or fishing line to tie your decorations in place with little to no visual intrusion.

Use Over-The-Door Hooks to Hang Wreaths

Keep your new front door installed by All-Weather looking like new this holiday season. Skip the damaging 3M tape and nails this year. Instead choose over-the-door hooks that can support your holiday wreath without the harmful effects. You may even want to add a piece of felt to the part of the hook that touches the door in case the wind causes the wreath and hanger to swing back and forth possibly scratching your door’s finish.

Call All-Weather Window, Doors & Siding at (913) 262-4380 today to help you get your home ready for the holidays.

Doors, General News, Siding, Windows

3 Characteristics of Every All-Weather Team Member

October 3, 2014 Doug Bennett

At All-Weather Window, Doors & Siding, we only hire the best of the best. In order to become one of us, potential applicants must possess several traits that are important to our business. That’s how you know that you are getting quality craftsmanship and service when you do business with us. Here are three characteristics you will find universally in all of our team members here at All-Weather.

Experienced

The All-Weather team is known for many things, but one of the most important is our vast experience in the industry. Among our management and team, the least amount of experience that a current team member has is 10 years. Seeing as we’ve been in business for more than a quarter of a century, this has obviously helped us build a solid reputation that has allowed us to stand out as leaders.

Professionalism

You will never have to worry about dealing with an unprofessional worker when you hire All-Weather to install windows, doors or siding on your home. Our entire team is cordial, punctual, and respectful of your home and your space. We will never leave a mess after we work on your home. Our team members leave their work space as it was, or better than when they began.

Well Trained

All-Weather team members are also well-trained and prepared to work on your home. Factory representatives from our partners, like Andersen Windows, come to our warehouse and train our employees in the proper ways to handle, install and repair their products. We always follow installation guidelines set by each manufacturer to ensure your windows, doors and siding perform the way they are supposed to. Plus, we are affiliated with several trade organizations, like NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry), which means we are always learning the newest and most technologically advanced practices to enlist on your home. Call us today at (913) 262-4380 and speak to one of our awesome team members about installing windows, doors, or siding on your Kansas City area home.

The Best Windows, Doors & Siding in KC. Guaranteed!