What to Expect During a Two-Story Home Siding Replacement
Siding replacement is one of the most transformative exterior upgrades a homeowner can make — improving curb appeal, energy efficiency, and long-term protection. But before starting, most homeowners ask the same practical question: how long does it take to replace siding on a two-story home?
Understanding the factors that affect siding replacement timelines can help you plan effectively and avoid surprises. Our experts at Siding Express have dutifully served homeowners across greater St. Louis in this very area, and can help demystify the process for you, too.
In this guide, we’ll break down what to expect during your siding replacement, discuss the best siding options, and explain why choosing the right team of professionals is essential for a smooth, reliable installation.
Contact us today for a free quote on your siding replacement, and start planning your project with confidence.
Why Replace Your Siding?
Replacing siding on your two-story home is both a protective and aesthetic investment. Quality siding acts as a barrier against moisture, pests, and environmental damage, protecting your walls, insulation, and structural sheathing.
At the same time, new siding can dramatically improve curb appeal, which can impact resale value. According to the Remodeling Magazine 2024 Cost vs. Value Report, a fresh exterior remains one of the most effective ways to enhance a home’s marketability.
Age and natural weathering can reduce your siding’s appearance and performance, putting your home at risk of water intrusion and dampening its curb appeal. Partnering with the right professionals can ensure your home’s siding does its job for as long as possible, saving you money and enriching your home’s exterior beauty.
Key Benefits of Siding Replacement for Two-Story Homes
Upgrading your home’s siding isn’t just about looks—it’s about protection, performance, and long-term value. Whether your goal is to refresh curb appeal or strengthen your home’s exterior against the elements, new siding delivers a range of lasting advantages.
How New Siding Protects and Adds Value
Protect Your Home: Quality siding shields your exterior from rain, wind, and pests, keeping your structure and insulation dry and intact.
Enhance Curb Appeal and Market Value: Fresh siding instantly boosts your home’s appearance and can increase resale value. According to the Remodeling 2024 Cost vs. Value Report, siding replacement ranks among the top projects for ROI.
Improve Energy Efficiency and Comfort: Insulated siding helps regulate indoor temperatures and reduces drafts, lowering energy costs year-round.
Durability and Low Maintenance: Premium materials like James Hardie fiber cement or engineered wood withstand harsh weather with little upkeep.
Prevent Costly Repairs: Replacing damaged or aging siding now prevents water infiltration and structural deterioration later.
By addressing both protection and aesthetics in one step, siding replacement becomes a smart, lasting investment — especially for larger two-story homes that face more environmental stress.
When Is It Time to Replace Your Siding?
If your siding is 20 years old or older, it may no longer provide the weather protection your home needs — particularly for two-story homes, which experience greater wind and moisture exposure.
Knowing when to replace siding on a two-story home is the first step to protecting your investment. Signs that it’s time include:
- Cracks, warping, or rotting: Visible damage can allow moisture to enter, causing structural problems.
- Fading or peeling paint: While cosmetic, it can indicate underlying material deterioration.
- Water damage or mold growth: Siding that traps moisture can lead to mold or mildew.
- Drafts or poor insulation: Aging siding may compromise energy efficiency.
Even minor damage should not be ignored. Timely siding replacement prevents more extensive and costly repairs later.
Siding Options to Consider
The right siding material affects installation time, maintenance requirements, and overall satisfaction. Popular options for two-story homes include:
- Vinyl: Affordable, versatile, and quick to install; minimal upkeep required.
- Fiber Cement: Highly durable and fire-resistant; premium look but more labor-intensive.
- Wood: Classic and attractive, but requires regular maintenance.
- Engineered Wood & Composite: Durable, low-maintenance alternatives to traditional wood.
Each material has trade-offs, so your choice should consider design, budget, and long-term maintenance goals.
How Long Does Siding Replacement Take on a Two-Story Home?
Every siding project has unique variables. On average, replacing siding on a two-story home takes about one to two weeks from start to finish. However, several variables can impact the time it takes to complete the project.
Factors That Affect Your Siding Replacement Timeline:
Home size and layout: Two-story homes require additional setup time, equipment, and safety measures, which can extend installation compared to single-story homes.
Existing siding removal: Older materials like wood or aluminum take longer to remove, especially if there’s hidden damage beneath.
Material selection: Vinyl and fiber cement (such as James Hardie) are among the most popular options. Fiber cement often requires extra precision cutting and sealing, which can add time — but also ensures exceptional durability.
Weather conditions: Moisture and temperature extremes can temporarily delay work for safety and quality reasons.
Repairs or preparation: Discovering water damage, rot, or insulation issues under old siding can extend the timeline — but addressing those problems early prevents costly future repairs.
Crew size and expertise: An experienced team with efficient scheduling can complete projects faster without cutting corners.
Understanding the impact of these factors can help you set realistic expectations and plan accordingly for any setbacks or complications.
Estimated Timelines for Siding Replacement
While every project is unique, a typical timeline for two-story homes is:
- Standard Homes (1,500–2,500 sq. ft.): Approximately 5–7 days from start to finish, including prep, installation, and cleanup.
- Larger or Custom Homes: 8–10 days or more, depending on size, materials, and architectural complexity.
Working with a professional team like Siding Express ensures efficiency and quality, minimizing delays with transparent communication and optimized processes.
How to Prepare for Siding Replacement on a Two-Story Home
Proper preparation helps the installation proceed efficiently and safely. Here are some steps to ensure your home is ready:
1. Clear the Work Area
- Move Outdoor Furniture and Decorations: Relocate items like chairs, grills, and potted plants away from the work zone to prevent damage and provide clear access for the crew.
- Trim Trees and Shrubs: Ensure vegetation is trimmed back to allow easy access to the exterior walls and prevent debris accumulation.
2. Protect Interior Spaces
- Remove Wall Hangings: Vibrations from the installation process can cause items on interior walls to shift or fall. Remove pictures, mirrors, and other wall-mounted decorations.
- Secure Fragile Items: Store delicate items in a safe place to prevent accidental damage during the project.
3. Ensure Safe Access
- Park Vehicles Elsewhere: Clear your driveway to accommodate dumpsters and delivery trucks.
- Provide Clear Pathways: Ensure pathways to the work area are unobstructed to facilitate easy movement of materials and equipment.
4. Address Utilities
- Turn Off Exterior Electricity: Disconnect power to exterior lights and outlets to prevent electrical hazards during installation.
- Check Water Sources: Ensure hoses and water sources are accessible for cleaning purposes, but not in the way of the work area.
5. Communicate With the Installation Team
- Discuss Project Details: Have a conversation with your contractor about start times, expected duration, and any specific concerns you may have.
- Establish Points of Contact: Ensure you have a way to reach the project manager or lead installer during the project for any questions or updates.
- Ask about Clean-Up: A reputable company like Siding Express will handle daily site clean-up and proper disposal of old materials.
Trust Siding Express for Your Two-Story Siding Replacement
Replacing a home’s siding is a major project, and homeowners need a contractor they can rely on. Siding Express delivers an expert siding replacement experience, delivering unrivaled professionalism, high-quality materials, and a satisfaction guarantee.
Certified expertise: Siding Express is a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor, recognized for superior craftsmanship and consistent quality.
Detailed project planning: Every replacement starts with a comprehensive inspection and timeline, so you know what to expect at each stage.
Clear communication: You’ll always know who’s on your crew, what’s happening next, and when your project will be complete.
Satisfaction guarantee: From consultation through final inspection, Siding Express stands behind every installation to ensure your home looks and performs its best.
With skilled crews, trusted materials, and transparent processes, Siding Express delivers the efficiency and reliability homeowners expect from a professional siding replacement partner.
Start Your Two-Story Home Siding Replacement With Confidence
Whether you’re replacing worn materials or upgrading to a more durable option, understanding how long it takes to replace siding on a two-story home helps you plan with confidence, and choosing the right contractor ensures the process stays on schedule.
Homeowners who choose Siding Express can trust that their siding replacement will be handled with professionalism, precision, and care.
Contact us today for a free quote, and let our experienced team guide you from start to finish. Let’s get started!
FAQ: Siding Replacement on a Two-Story Home
How long does it take to replace siding on a two-story home?
Most standard two-story homes take 5–7 days from start to finish, including prep, installation, and cleanup. Larger or more complex homes may take 8–10 days or more.
Can I stay in my home during siding replacement?
Yes. While exterior work can be noisy at times, you can safely remain in your home throughout the project.
How do I know when it’s time to replace my siding?
Look for visible cracks, warping, mold, water damage, or drafty walls. Cosmetic issues like fading paint can also indicate deeper material deterioration.
What siding materials are best for a two-story home?
Popular options include vinyl, fiber cement, wood, and engineered/composite siding. Your choice depends on durability, maintenance, appearance, and budget.
How can I prepare my home for siding replacement?
Clear exterior and interior spaces, keep pathways and driveways accessible for crews, and communicate with your contractor about project details to ensure a smooth installation.
Why should I trust Siding Express with my siding replacement?
Siding Express combines proven experience, professional installation, high-quality materials, and a satisfaction guarantee, giving homeowners confidence in a smooth, high-quality project. Scheduling a consultation is as easy as filling out a quick form.
