Siding | OBM Construction and Custom Homes
Siding protects your home's structure from moisture, wind, and temperature extremes. In Southwest Michigan, siding faces harsh winters, freeze-thaw cycles, wind-driven rain, and intense summer sun. OBM Construction installs siding systems designed to perform in these conditions.
We work with all major siding materials: vinyl, fiber cement (James Hardie), engineered wood (LP SmartSide), cedar, and specialty products. Each material has different performance characteristics, maintenance requirements, and cost profiles. We present your options with honest comparisons so you choose what fits your home and budget.
Proper installation is more important than the siding material itself. We follow manufacturer installation specifications exactly — house wrap, flashing details at windows and doors, J-channel, starter strips, course alignment, nail spacing, and expansion gaps. Siding installed over improper flashing will trap moisture inside your walls regardless of how expensive the product is.
Every siding project includes a 6-inch minimum clearance from grade per code, proper flashing behind all horizontal joints and transitions, continuous house wrap as a weather barrier, and clean caulking at all trim transitions. These details prevent the moisture infiltration that causes rot and mold inside wall cavities.
We assess your existing wall sheathing and house wrap during the initial evaluation. If the substrate has damage or the weather barrier needs replacement, we address it before installing new siding. Covering up problems with new siding is not an OBM practice.
Ready to discuss your siding project? Contact OBM Construction at (269) 428-6741 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Licensed. Insured. Local. MI License #242400588.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much does new siding cost?
A: Siding costs vary by material. Vinyl siding typically runs $5 to $9 per square foot installed. Fiber cement (James Hardie) runs $9 to $14 per square foot. Engineered wood and cedar cost more. Total project cost depends on your home's size and detail complexity.
Q: What siding material lasts the longest?
A: Fiber cement (James Hardie) is the most durable mainstream siding product, with a typical lifespan of 40 to 50 years. Vinyl lasts 20 to 40 years. Cedar requires regular maintenance but can last decades when properly maintained. Each material has trade-offs between cost, appearance, and maintenance.
Q: Can you install new siding over my existing siding?
A: In some cases, yes, but we generally recommend removing old siding so we can inspect and repair the sheathing and house wrap underneath. Installing over old siding hides problems and may void the new product warranty.
Q: Do I need a permit for siding replacement?
A: Most Michigan jurisdictions do not require a permit for siding replacement if the sheathing is not being changed. However, if the project involves structural changes, window modifications, or insulation upgrades, permits may be required.
Q: How long does a siding project take?
A: Most whole-house siding replacements take 1 to 3 weeks depending on the home's size and complexity. Partial siding repairs can often be completed in a few days.