As an Experienced Siding & Exterior Contractor, the Details Matter
You have many Atlanta home exterior contractors to choose from, and at Nelson Exteriors, we're always working hard to be the best choice for homeowners throughout the Atlanta Metro area. A major factor in how we set ourselves apart as an exterior contractor is our commitment to quality and attention to detail in every project we complete.
Our approach to siding installation is the perfect example. With decades of experience in siding, our team has seen what works well and stands the test of time—and what practices will shorten the lifespan of your new siding. At Nelson Exteriors, we've seen that some siding contractors will omit portions of siding systems such as house wrap, or simply install the cheapest brand of house wrap available. However, we believe in doing things the right way. Here's why house wrap matters when it comes to your siding installation.
What Is House Wrap?
If you've ever seen a home under construction or in the middle of a siding replacement project, you've seen house wrap. House wrap is a layer of synthetic material used to enhance the insulation and moisture resistance of a siding system. It is installed between the backer board and your siding, and it serves to prevent drafts and moisture penetration while still allowing for ventilation.
That ventilation aspect is critical. While it may seem odd to hear that house wrap is not completely impervious to moisture, the type of moisture matters. House wrap resists liquid water (typically rainwater) and prevents damage as a result—however, if it also prevented water vapor from exiting your home, that vapor would accumulate as liquid water underneath your siding and create mold, mildew, and rot.
Overall, house wrap functions like a rain jacket for your home, resisting water while allowing your home to breathe.
To Wrap or Not to Wrap?
As a seasoned exterior contractor, we always install house wrap here at Nelson Exteriors. That said, house wrap is not always included, and some siding companies will skip this layer of your siding installation.
Part of the reason is that building codes can vary, and house wrap is not always required. However, it is almost always a good idea to install, and you should generally be wary if an exterior contractor you work with proposes skipping this step.
The Right Product Matters
Our team here at Nelson Exteriors has achieved Elite Preferred status with James Hardie, and we've maintained that distinction since 2012. This means we have demonstrated superior expertise with James Hardie siding products and are able to provide access to some of the best warranties in the industry.
A major part of our house wrap approach stems from this relationship with James Hardie. James Hardie sets out "good," "better," and "best" practices for any exterior contractor working with their products. As an Elite Preferred contractor, our goal is always to adhere to those "best" practices rather than settling for good or better. This means that when we install James Hardie siding, we always pair this with other James Hardie products, including their house wrap and seam tape.
When it comes to maintaining James Hardie warranties, this helps to minimize any potential difficulties, as our team has installed their siding exactly as they've wanted it to be installed. In other words, when you call on Nelson Exteriors to install new James Hardie siding, you can be confident that our installation process will help to ensure your home is covered by their excellent product warranties.
Nelson Exteriors: Top Home Exterior Contractor Since 1977
At Nelson Exteriors, we've been working with homeowners since 1977. A major reason for that longevity is our commitment to quality and excellent customer service across every project we complete. We assign a project manager to every job, ensuring you always have a clear point of contact and maintaining the quality of our work every step of the way.
If you want the most from your new siding, deck, windows, or any other portion of your home exterior, start by working with the right home exterior contractor. Contact Nelson Exteriors today for a free estimate!