Decision time comes when homeowners notice their old siding is showing its age and losing its ability to protect their home. Installing new siding over old siding is a practical way to improve your home’s look and durability, but it isn’t always the right move. The condition and type of your current siding play a role in what’s possible.

At Fairway Exteriors, we’ve helped countless homeowners in the Kansas City area make the best choice for their home, whether that means keeping the existing siding as a base or removing it completely. Let’s explore what matters most when deciding how to move forward.

When It Makes Sense to Install Over Existing Siding

In some cases, leaving the original panels in place makes sense. Homes with flat surfaces like T1-11, Masonite, or LP SmartSide may qualify if the material is still structurally sound. We often see this setup in the Kansas City area. Minor damage can usually be fixed, followed by removing trim, repairing small sections, and applying a durable house wrap before starting the new installation.

One reason we don’t always remove the original layer is that nailed directly to the wall studs. Taking it out could mean pulling hundreds of fasteners, which can cause interior damage. If the base layer is in good shape and lies flat, covering it can be a safe and cost-effective solution.

When a Full Removal Is the Better Choice

Some siding materials aren’t a good base for a new installation. In these situations, we remove the existing layer before starting fresh:

• Shingles or vinyl don’t offer a flat or stable surface. They need to come off first.
• Brick can be covered with furring strips, but this often causes uneven trim around windows and doors. Taking the brick down is usually easier and more affordable.
• Stucco is not compatible with direct installation and must be removed entirely.

After we remove the old material, we check for wood rot, water damage, or any issues behind the wall. We make sure the surface is clean, dry, and ready to support the new siding properly.

Why a Careful Approach Matters

Every home has its structure, and adding new cladding over existing material requires thoughtful planning. If the current surface isn’t even or there’s moisture damage beneath, a full removal is often the better choice. This approach helps ensure proper installation and long-lasting performance.

We’ve handled many of these projects in the Kansas City area. Our first step is always a thorough inspection of what’s already in place. We aim to protect your home from the inside out, avoiding unnecessary demolition but never covering up anything that’s compromised or unstable.

Key Takeaways

• If your home has flat panel cladding in good condition, it may be possible to install new material on top with a few repairs.
• Shingles, vinyl, brick, and stucco usually need to be removed first due to surface or structural issues.
• Our process starts with a detailed inspection. We focus on protecting your home and ensuring the new exterior has a solid foundation.

Still weighing your options? We’re here to help. Contact Fairway Exteriors for an expert assessment and a long-lasting solution you can trust.