In a world full of polished siding ads and big brand campaigns, it’s easy to get caught up in the promises: “Lifetime durability!” “Wood-look finishes!” “Zero maintenance!” The marketing looks great – but how often do those claims hold up once they’re nailed to your house?
At Northco Services, we believe great siding should do more than just look the part – it should actually perform. Especially here in Ottawa, where weather swings from deep freeze to blazing sun.
And if there’s one voice you don’t want to leave out of your siding decision? Your installer’s.
Because here’s the thing: how well siding holds up doesn’t just depend on what it’s made of – it depends on how it’s installed.
Ask the people who actually put it up
Siding manufacturers spend big on branding. And hey – some make excellent products. But the crews who actually install siding day in and day out? We know what really works on real houses in this climate.
Take fiber cement siding, like James Hardie®. It’s popular for good reason. But with styles like board and batten, the exposed nail lines you sometimes see aren’t a mistake – they’re part of how it’s designed to be installed. Thing is, you’d never know that from the polished ads.
Planning to invest in new siding? Make sure to ask not just “What’s the best siding?” but “Which material works best for my home, installed by someone who knows what they’re doing?”
Looks matter. But so does protection.
Ottawa homes need siding that can take a hit – weather, moisture, UV, and all. That’s why our team walks clients through things like:
- Durability vs. Aesthetics – Some materials are gorgeous but a little high-maintenance. Others are more rugged, but might require finesse in install or touch-up.
- Installation quirks – Will nails be visible? Are there known expansion issues? Will a tricky install affect your warranty?
- Maintenance over time – “Low maintenance” should mean no paintbrush for 20 years, not “caulk every spring.”
- Surviving Ottawa’s five seasons – Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall… and Construction.
- Matching new siding to old – If you’re doing a partial upgrade, how well can your new siding blend with what’s already there?
What happens in 10 years? – Can you still get matching trim or panels if something needs replacing down the line?
Talk to the crew who’s seen it all
At Northco, we’ve installed every kind of siding Ottawa’s seen. Some of it we loved. Some of it… well, let’s just say it made for great stories.
We’re not here to push brands. We’re here to help homeowners choose siding that protects their home, fits their style, and won’t flinch through ten Ottawa winters.
Thinking about updating your home’s exterior? Let’s chat. We’ll help you cut through the noise, sidestep the hype, and land on something that actually works for your home.
