You're looking at wooden siding, huh? That's a classic choice here in Kalispell, and for good reason. It looks great, adds character, and when it's done right, it'll last you a long time. But I've seen too many folks around here make some real head-scratching mistakes that end up costing them a lot of time, money, and frustration. Let's talk about what to watch out for so you don't end up regretting your decision.
Ignoring the Wood Type and Climate
This is a big one. Not all wood is created equal, especially when you're talking about our crazy Kalispell weather. We get those dry, hot summers, followed by long, cold, and often wet winters. If you pick a wood that's not suited for these conditions, you're just asking for trouble. I've seen people go for cheaper, less durable woods thinking they're saving a buck, only to have it warp, crack, or rot out in a few years. Cedar, redwood, and cypress are popular for a reason – they've got natural resistance to decay and insects. Even then, you need to think about how it's treated. Don't just grab whatever's on sale. Ask about the wood's natural properties and how it stands up to moisture and temperature swings. For example, if you're building near Flathead Lake, the humidity can be a bit different than up in the foothills, and that matters for wood.
Skimping on Proper Installation
Okay, so you picked good wood. Great. But if it's not installed right, it's all for nothing. This isn't a DIY job for most people, and even some pros cut corners. I'm talking about things like proper flashing around windows and doors, leaving enough space for expansion and contraction, and using the right fasteners. If water gets behind that siding, you're going to have a bad time. Rot, mold, structural damage – it's a nightmare. I've seen homes in the Somers area where beautiful cedar siding was installed without adequate ventilation or proper rain screen, and it just didn't last. A good contractor knows the local building codes and understands how to make that siding shed water effectively. They'll also make sure the substrate is solid and prepped correctly.
Forgetting About Maintenance (or Doing It Wrong)
Wood siding isn't a