Plan Your Spring Home Makeover: Why Now is the Time to Book Your Siding Project
Plan Your Spring Home Makeover: Why Now is the Time to Book Your Siding Project Spring in Northwest Arkansas is synonymous with renewal. As the trees in the Ozarks begin to bloom and the days get longer, many homeowners start thinking about “spring cleaning.” But this year, instead of just decluttering the garage, why not give your home a complete exterior transformation? While it might feel like winter is still lingering, now is actually the critical window to plan your spring home makeover. If you wait until the first warm Saturday to call a contractor, you might find yourself at the back of a long line. Here is why booking your siding project with RGS Exteriors today is the smartest move for your home and your wallet. 1. Beat the “Spring Rush” In the construction and home improvement world, spring is the busiest season of the year. As soon as the weather turns consistent, homeowners across Fayetteville, Springdale, and Rogers flood contractors with requests for estimates. By scheduling your consultation now, you secure your spot on our production calendar. You get ahead of the crowd, ensuring your project is completed on your timeline, not whenever a crew finally becomes available. 2. Prepare for NWA Storm Season We all know that spring in Arkansas brings more than just flowers; it brings severe weather. Your siding is a key part of your home’s “first line of defense” against wind, rain, and hail. Old, cracked, or loose siding can allow water to seep behind your walls during heavy spring rains, leading to mold and structural damage. A proactive siding replacement or repair now ensures your home is sealed tight before the storm season truly peaks. 3. Boost Your Curb Appeal and Home Value Nothing transforms a home quite like new siding. Whether you are looking to sell this year or just want to be the best-looking house on the block, modern siding offers an instant facelift. At RGS Exteriors, we offer a wide range of options to match your vision: Fiber Cement Siding: Renowned for its exceptional durability, fire resistance, and premium appearance—perfect for the NWA climate. Vinyl & Composite Siding: A versatile and cost-effective choice available in many modern styles and colors. 4. Improve Energy Efficiency Before the Summer Heat It may be chilly now, but we know the Arkansas summer heat is just around the corner. Old siding often lacks proper insulation, allowing your expensive air conditioning to escape. New siding installation is the perfect time to add insulation and wrap your home in a modern, energy-efficient barrier. By booking now, you’ll have your new system installed and ready to lower your energy bills by the time the temperatures spike. Why Choose RGS Exteriors? We aren’t just contractors; we are your neighbors. RGS Exteriors is a family-owned company built on 30 years of local service and reliability. We understand the unique weather challenges of our area and provide craftsmanship that stands the test of time. We handle the entire process for you, from the initial design consultation to the final clean-up. Don’t Wait! Schedule Your Free Estimate Today The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago; the best time to book your spring renovation is today. Let’s make your dream home a reality this season. FAQ When is the best time to replace siding in Northwest Arkansas? While siding can be replaced year-round, late winter and early spring are ideal times to book your project. By scheduling before the “spring rush” hits in April and May, you ensure your home is protected before the heavy storm season arrives. Which siding material is best for the Arkansas climate? We recommend Fiber Cement siding for maximum durability. It is specifically engineered to resist the humidity, temperature swings, and fire risks common in the Ozarks. However, we also install high-quality Vinyl and Composite siding, which are versatile, cost-effective options that still offer great protection and curb appeal. Will new siding lower my energy bills? Yes. Old siding often has gaps or poor insulation that allow heat to escape in winter and enter in summer. Installing new siding allows us to add modern insulation and house wrap, creating a tighter seal that improves energy efficiency and lowers cooling costs during our hot summers. How long does a siding installation take? Most residential siding projects take between one to two weeks, depending on the size of the home and the weather. By booking now, you secure a spot on our calendar, ensuring the project is completed efficiently before the peak busy season begins. Do you offer free estimates for siding projects? Yes. RGS Exteriors offers Free Estimates for all siding, roofing, and gutter projects. We provide honest, transparent pricing so you know exactly what to expect before work begins. What areas do you serve? We are locally owned and proudly serve homeowners in Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, Bentonville, Bella Vista, Centerton, Farmington, Lowell, and Cave Springs.
The RGS Siding Installation Process: What to Expect from Start to Finish
The RGS Siding Installation Process: What to Expect from Start to Finish Upgrading your home’s siding is one of the most impactful investments you can make. It instantly boosts curb appeal, increases property value, and improves energy efficiency. However, for many homeowners in Northwest Arkansas, the thought of a major construction project feels overwhelming. Will it be messy? How long will it take? Will my landscaping be ruined? At RGS Exteriors, we believe in no-surprise renovations. As a locally owned company with 30 years of experience, we have refined our installation process to be as smooth, clean, and stress-free as possible. Here is a step-by-step look at what happens when you partner with us for your siding project. Step 1: The Free Consultation & Design Every great project starts with a conversation. We don’t just give you a price; we help you find the right solution for your home. Site Inspection: We assess your current exterior, looking for structural issues or rot that needs addressing. Material Selection: Whether you want the cost-effectiveness of Vinyl, the versatility of Composite, or the premium durability of Fiber Cement, we help you choose the style and color that matches your vision. Transparent Quote: You will receive a clear, honest estimate so you know exactly what to expect. Step 2: Site Preparation & Delivery Before the first hammer swings, we prepare your property. We respect your home as if it were our own. This involves: Delivering materials and placing them in a designated, out-of-the-way spot. Protecting your landscaping, flower beds, and patio furniture from debris. Setting up safety measures to ensure the job site is secure. Step 3: Demolition & Hidden Inspection We don’t just cover up problems; we fix them. We carefully remove your old siding to expose the sheathing underneath. This is a critical step where we: Inspect for water damage, mold, or rot. Replace damaged wood to ensure a solid nail base. Install high-quality house wrap and insulation. This barrier is essential for NWA homes, preventing drafts and lowering your heating and cooling bills. Step 4: Precision Installation This is where the transformation happens. Our certified installers work with precision to ensure your new siding stands the test of time against Arkansas storms. Flashing & Trim: We pay special attention to windows, doors, and corners—these are the most common leak points if not handled correctly. Siding Panels: Whether we are installing lap siding or vertical panels, we ensure every piece is level, secure, and properly vented. Step 5: The “White Glove” Cleanup A job isn’t finished until your yard is spotless. We know that construction debris is a major annoyance, which is why we: Perform a magnetic sweep of your driveway and yard to catch stray nails. Haul away all old siding and packaging materials. Re-inspect your gutters and downspouts to ensure they are clear and flowing freely. Step 6: Final Walkthrough We never send a final invoice until you are happy. We will walk you around the property to inspect the work together, ensuring every detail meets our high standards of craftsmanship. FAQ How long does a siding replacement take? An average-sized home in Northwest Arkansas typically takes 1 to 2 weeks to complete, depending on the material chosen and weather conditions. We work efficiently to minimize disruption to your daily routine. Do I need to be home during the installation? You do not need to be home while our crew is working on the exterior. We only ask for access to a power outlet and that you keep your driveway clear for our equipment and material delivery. What happens if you find rot under my old siding? This is common in older homes. If we discover rot or structural damage, we stop immediately, document it with photos, and discuss the repair options with you before proceeding. We never cover up damage. Which siding material is best for NWA weather? We highly recommend Fiber Cement siding for our area. It is engineered to resist fire, rot, and the humidity swings we experience in the Ozarks. However, modern Vinyl and Composite options are also excellent, durable choices. Do you offer warranties on your work? Yes. We stand behind our craftsmanship with a labor warranty, and we use top-tier materials that come with robust manufacturer warranties. What areas do you serve? RGS Exteriors is proud to serve Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, Bentonville, Bella Vista, Centerton, Farmington, Lowell, and Cave Springs. Ready to Transform Your Home? Don’t settle for a contractor who leaves you in the dark. Choose the neighbor you can trust.
Fiber Cement vs. Vinyl: Why We Trust Fiber Cement for NWA Homes
Fiber Cement vs. Vinyl: Why We Trust Fiber Cement for NWA Homes As a family-owned exterior company in Northwest Arkansas for over 30 years, the most common question we get is, “Should I choose fiber cement or vinyl siding?” Vinyl siding is popular, and its main selling point is its low upfront cost. But in our three decades of replacing failed siding, we’ve learned a critical lesson: what’s “cheaper” upfront is almost never the best value for an NWA homeowner. The weather here is simply too demanding. We have a unique combination of hail, high-wind events, ice storms, and intense summer humidity. These elements are brutal on a home’s exterior, and they are exactly where vinyl siding fails. At RGS Exteriors, we’ve chosen to specialize in fiber cement siding. It’s not just a preference; it’s a decision based on 30 years of seeing what lasts and what doesn’t. Here’s why we trust fiber cement for our clients’ homes. 1. Durability: NWA’s Hail vs. Plastic Vinyl: Vinyl is a thin plastic shell. In the cold, it becomes brittle. When an NWA hailstorm rolls through, that brittle plastic is easily cracked and punctured. We’ve also seen significant damage from weed-eaters, stray baseballs, and even wind-blown debris. Fiber Cement: Fiber cement is a thick, rigid composite of cement and sand. It is specifically engineered to be impact-resistant. It doesn’t get brittle in the cold and can withstand hail and impact without cracking or denting. 2. Weather Stability: Extreme Heat and Ice Vinyl: Vinyl expands and contracts dramatically with temperature changes. In the scorching NWA summer, this can cause the panels to warp, buckle, and look wavy. In the winter, the contraction can pull seams apart, creating gaps for wind and water. Fiber Cement: Fiber cement is dimensionally stable. It does not swell, warp, or contract like plastic or wood. The seams we caulk and seal stay sealed. The boards stay flat and straight, maintaining their structural integrity and appearance whether it’s 100°F or 10°F. 3. Appearance and Curb Appeal Vinyl: At the end of the day, vinyl looks like plastic. It can fade and become chalky in the sun. If a panel is scratched or dented, the damage is obvious and difficult to repair, often requiring a full panel replacement (which may not match in color). Fiber Cement: Fiber cement offers the beautiful, premium look of real wood without the maintenance. It gives a home a more substantial, high-end appearance that significantly boosts curb appeal and resale value. 4. Safety: Fire Resistance Vinyl: Vinyl siding is plastic. It will melt and warp when exposed to high heat, whether from a house fire or just a barbecue grill placed too close to the wall. Fiber Cement: Fiber cement is non-combustible. It will not ignite when exposed to a direct flame, and it will not add fuel to a fire. This is an incredible, non-negotiable safety feature for your family. Our Expert Verdict We built our 30-year reputation on quality and trust. We simply are not willing to install a product that we know will fail, crack, or warp under the predictable Arkansas weather. Vinyl siding is a cost, but fiber cement siding is an investment in your home’s long-term protection, value, and safety. FAQ You mentioned vinyl is “cheaper.” How much more expensive is fiber cement? Fiber cement is a premium product, so it has a higher upfront material and labor cost than vinyl. However, we’ve learned over 30 years that it’s a much better long-term value. When you factor in vinyl’s tendency to crack (requiring repairs) and its shorter lifespan, fiber cement is often less expensive over the life of your home. It’s an investment in durability that pays for itself. I’ve heard vinyl siding is “maintenance-free.” Is fiber cement harder to take care of? Fiber cement is considered low-maintenance, not no-maintenance. Its main requirement is a simple wash with a soft brush and a garden hose every 6-12 months to remove dirt. The key difference is in the type of maintenance: with vinyl, “maintenance” often means repairing cracks, punctures, or warped panels. With fiber cement, you are just doing simple cleaning to maintain its appearance. What about installation? Is fiber cement harder to install? Yes, and that’s a critical point. Fiber cement is a heavy, rigid material that requires specialized tools and-most importantly-specialized training. It must be installed exactly to the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure it performs correctly and to validate its warranty. This is why you should only trust an experienced, professional team like RGS Exteriors for the installation.
5 Signs Your Home’s Siding Needs to Be Replaced
5 Signs Your Home’s Siding Needs to Be Replaced Your home’s siding is its armor. It protects your structure from rain, wind, ice, and pests. But just like any armor, it wears down over time. As a family-owned company with over 30 years of experience in Northwest Arkansas, we’ve seen firsthand how small siding issues can turn into catastrophic, expensive repairs if they’re ignored. It’s tempting to put off a replacement, but catching these warning signs early can save you from dealing with hidden rot, mold, and structural damage. Here are the 5 key signs our team looks for. 1. Widespread Cracking or Warping A few small, hairline cracks might be a simple cosmetic fix. What you need to watch for are widespread or significant issues: Cracks: Large cracks, or numerous small ones, are a sign your siding has become brittle and has failed. This is common in vinyl, which cracks after impacts or from cold NWA winters. Warping/Bowing: Are boards pulling away from the house? Do they look bowed or rippled? This means the siding is no longer secure and is allowing moisture to get behind it. Once the protective surface is broken, water is free to seep in, and that’s when the real problems begin. 2. Bubbling, Blistering, or Soft Spots This is one of the most serious warning signs. If you see spots on your siding that look like bubbles or blisters under the paint, it’s a red flag for trapped moisture. Worse yet, if you gently press on a suspicious spot and it feels soft, spongy, or “bouncy,” you almost certainly have rot in the underlying wood sheathing. This is common with old wood siding but can happen with any material if water gets trapped. This isn’t a “wait and see” problem—it needs to be inspected immediately. 3. Signs of Fungus, Mold, or Mildew While a little mildew on the shady side of your house might be normal, you should be concerned about persistent, widespread, or dark patches of fungus and mold. This is especially true if you see it growing at or near the seams where boards meet. This indicates that your siding is holding moisture instead of shedding it. That moisture can seep into your wall cavity, damaging insulation and posing a potential health risk to your family. 4. Fading Color and Chronic Peeling Paint Your siding’s finish is its first defense. When the color becomes dull and chalky, or the paint begins to peel and chip away, it means that protective layer is gone. This is more than just a cosmetic issue. For wood siding, it’s a critical failure that leaves the wood exposed to moisture and rot. For fiber cement or vinyl, it’s a sign the material has reached the end of its service life. While you could repaint, it’s often an expensive, temporary fix for a much larger problem. 5. Your Energy Bills Are Creeping Up Are your heating and cooling bills getting higher every year, even though your HVAC system is working fine? Your siding and wall insulation could be the culprit. Old, failing siding with cracked seams and warped boards creates countless tiny gaps for air to travel. This “air infiltration” makes your home drafty and forces your furnace and AC to work overtime. A new, professionally installed siding system—especially when paired with a modern house wrap—creates a much tighter, more energy-efficient thermal envelope for your home. Don’t Wait for a Small Problem to Become a Big One With 30 years of experience, we know the difference between a simple repair and a full replacement. If you see any of these signs, the worst thing you can do is wait. Step 6: Fitting and Securing the Siding Panels Working from bottom to top, panels are cut to size, fitted, and nailed or screwed in place. For fiber cement, we use specialized tools to minimize dust. Overlaps ensure water resistance—expect some noise from saws and hammers. FAQ Can I just repair a few bad spots, or do I need to replace all my siding? This is one of the most common questions we get. The answer depends on the problem. If you have localized damage from a single event (like a baseball hit), a small repair is often possible. However, if you’re seeing widespread issues like cracking, warping, or soft spots, these are signs of system-wide failure. In that case, a full replacement is the only long-term solution to protect your home. I see some mold/mildew. Can I just power wash it off? You can, but it’s often a temporary fix for a deeper problem. Power washing may clean the surface, but it doesn’t solve why the mold is growing. If your siding is holding moisture, the mold will just come right back. We recommend an inspection to see if water is getting trapped behind the siding. My siding is just faded, but it’s not cracked. Can I just paint it? You can paint some types of siding, like wood or fiber cement, but it’s a very labor-intensive and expensive job to do correctly. If your siding is old, painting is often a short-term cosmetic fix that doesn’t address underlying issues like poor insulation or brittleness. I think I have soft spots under my siding. What’s the repair process? This is a serious issue, and we’re glad you asked. When we find soft spots, it means the wood sheathing under your siding has rotted. The first step is to remove the old siding in that area to see how extensive the damage is. We then cut out and replace all the rotted wood with new, solid sheathing before we can install the new siding. This is critical for ensuring the long-term structural integrity of your home.
Why Fiber Cement is the Best Siding Choice for Northwest Arkansas
Why Fiber Cement is the Best Siding Choice for Northwest Arkansas Choosing the right siding for your home in Northwest Arkansas isn’t just about curb appeal—it’s about survival. Our region is famous for its four-season weather, which can be incredibly demanding on a home’s exterior. From high winds and hail in the spring to scorching, humid summers and the ice storms of winter, your siding is your home’s first line of defense. While options like vinyl and wood are common, they come with significant drawbacks in our climate. Vinyl can become brittle and crack in the cold, while wood is a constant battle against rot and pests. That’s why at RGS Exteriors, with our 30 years of experience protecting NWA homes, we recommend fiber cement siding. Here’s why this siding is the ideal choice for your property. 1. It Stands Up to NWA’s Severe Weather Our storm season is no joke. Hail and wind-blown debris can leave vinyl siding dented and cracked. Fiber cement, on the other hand, is specifically engineered to be impact-resistant. It’s significantly thicker and more rigid, meaning it can take a beating from a hailstorm or stray tree limb without showing the damage. Furthermore, it’s dimensionally stable. It won’t get brittle and crack during a sudden winter freeze, and it won’t warp or bow in the high summer heat, ensuring your home is protected year after year. 2. Impervious to Rot and Pests The high humidity in Arkansas is tough on wood siding. All that moisture creates a perfect environment for rot, mildew, and fungus, which can lead to expensive, structural damage. Wood also attracts pests like termites and woodpeckers. Fiber cement is made from a composite of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. It’s completely non-organic and does not absorb moisture. This means it cannot rot, warp, or swell. Pests have no interest in it, saving you thousands in potential pest control and repair bills. 3. A Safer, Fire-Resistant Choice Home safety is a top priority for any family. Fiber cement is non-combustible. It will not ignite when exposed to a direct flame, nor will it fuel a fire. This provides critical, priceless peace of mind that other materials simply can’t offer. In many cases, its high fire-resistance rating can even lead to savings on your homeowner’s insurance. Trust a Local Expert for Your Installation The best siding in the world will only perform if it’s installed correctly. As a family-owned company with 30 years of roots in Northwest Arkansas, RGS Exteriors has the expertise to install your fiber cement siding to the manufacturer’s exact specifications. We ensure your home is protected, beautiful, and ready to handle whatever our weather throws at it. FAQ Is fiber cement siding more expensive than vinyl? Fiber cement siding typically has a higher upfront cost than vinyl. However, it is a long-term investment that provides a superior return. Its extreme durability, resistance to rot and pests, and long-lasting finish mean you will spend far less on maintenance and repairs over the life of your home. How long does a siding installation project take? The timeline depends on the size of your home and the complexity of the job. For an average-sized home, a complete siding replacement usually takes between one and two weeks. We will provide a clear, specific timeline in your project proposal. What kind of maintenance does fiber cement siding require? Fiber cement is known for being incredibly low-maintenance. Unlike wood, it never needs to be scraped. We simply recommend washing it down with a garden hose and a soft brush every 6-12 months to remove any dirt or dust and keep it looking new. How well does fiber cement siding hold up to Northwest Arkansas’s weather? It’s the best option for our climate. Fiber cement is impact-resistant, so it can handle hail storms much better than vinyl or wood. It also won’t get brittle and crack in an ice storm, and it doesn’t warp or swell in our high summer humidity. What kind of warranty comes with my new siding? Your investment is fully protected. Manufacturers typically provide a 30-year, non-prorated warranty on their fiber cement siding. On top of that, RGS Exteriors provides our own workmanship warranty to guarantee our installation quality.