- Key Takeaways
- Siding installation boosts curb appeal and protects Bellingham homes from rain and wind.
- Vinyl, fiber cement, and wood are top siding choices for Whatcom County’s climate.
- Professional installation ensures durability and energy efficiency in the PNW.
- Monarca offers custom siding solutions tailored to Bellingham neighborhoods.
- A new siding project can increase your home’s value and weather resistance.
If you own a home in Bellingham, WA, you know the Pacific Northwest weather can be relentless—rain pouring down for days, wind whipping off Bellingham Bay, and humidity settling in like an uninvited guest. Your home’s siding isn’t just about looks; it’s your first line of defense against these elements. At Monarca Construction & Remodeling, we’ve been installing siding across Whatcom County—from the historic streets of Fairhaven to the family-friendly neighborhoods of Birchwood—and we’re here to share why siding installation is a game-changer for Bellingham homeowners. Let’s dive into the benefits, materials, and process of upgrading your home with expert siding installation.
Why Siding Installation Matters in Bellingham
Bellingham’s climate is a unique challenge. With over 36 inches of rain annually and gusty winds common in fall and winter, unprotected exteriors can suffer from water damage, mold, or fading. Old, cracked siding lets moisture seep into walls, while peeling paint detracts from your home’s charm. A fresh siding installation fixes these issues, sealing out the elements and giving your property a facelift. Whether you’re in Columbia with a craftsman bungalow or Cordata with a modern build, new siding boosts curb appeal, energy efficiency, and resale value—a triple win for Whatcom County residents.
Top Siding Materials for Bellingham Homes
Choosing the right siding material is key to thriving in Bellingham’s wet and windy conditions. Here’s what we recommend at Monarca, based on our projects across the region:
- Vinyl Siding
Vinyl is a Bellingham favorite for its affordability and low maintenance. Available in colors from classic white to deep navy, it resists moisture and pests—perfect for our rainy climate. In a recent South Hill project, we installed vinyl siding with a wood-grain texture, giving the home a timeless look without the upkeep of real wood. It’s lightweight, quick to install, and budget-friendly, making it ideal for families in Roosevelt or Sunnyland. - Fiber Cement Siding
For durability that laughs at Whatcom County’s weather, fiber cement (like James Hardie®) is a standout. Made from cement, sand, and cellulose, it resists fire, rot, and wind. We used it in an Edgemoor remodel, where its crisp lines and pre-painted finish elevated a waterfront home’s elegance. Fiber cement mimics wood or stucco but lasts longer—up to 50 years—making it a smart pick for Bellingham’s coastal humidity. - Wood Siding
Nothing beats wood siding for natural beauty, especially in neighborhoods like Fairhaven or Alabama Hill. Cedar and redwood offer warmth and charm, and when treated with sealants, they hold up against rain and insects. In a Lettered Streets project, we installed cedar clapboard siding, stained to highlight its grain, creating a cozy, PNW vibe. Wood needs more maintenance—think staining every few years—but the aesthetic payoff is worth it for many. - Metal Siding
Metal siding, like aluminum or steel, brings a modern edge to Bellingham homes. It’s tough as nails, resisting rust with proper coatings, and reflects heat to keep your home cooler in summer. We clad a Barkley Village home with steel siding in a sleek gray, pairing durability with a contemporary look. It’s low-maintenance and lasts decades, a great fit for urban or rural Whatcom County properties. - Engineered Wood Siding
A hybrid of wood’s look and synthetic durability, engineered wood siding is gaining fans. In a Birchwood remodel, we used it to create a wood-like finish that resists moisture better than natural wood. It’s eco-friendly and budget-conscious, blending style and practicality for Bellingham’s green-minded homeowners.
Each material has its strengths, and Monarca helps you choose based on your home’s style, budget, and the weather it’ll face in Whatcom County.
The Monarca Siding Installation Process
At Monarca, we’ve honed a process that ensures your siding looks great and performs even better. Here’s how we do it in Bellingham:
- Inspection and Consultation: We start with a free assessment, checking your current siding for damage—like rot in Columbia’s older homes—and discussing your goals. Want a bold color for South Hill or a classic look for Fairhaven? We’ve got you covered.
- Design and Material Selection: We present options, from vinyl’s versatility to fiber cement’s toughness, and mock up a plan that fits your vision and budget.
- Preparation: We remove old siding, repair underlying issues (think water-damaged sheathing), and install a weather barrier—crucial for Bellingham’s rain.
- Installation: Our crew gets to work, aligning panels precisely and securing them to withstand wind. We seal edges around windows and doors for a watertight finish.
- Cleanup and Reveal: We leave your property spotless, then walk you through the finished project to ensure it’s perfect.
In a recent Ferndale job, this process turned a faded, leaky exterior into a vibrant, weatherproof shell in just five days. Whether it’s a quick refresh or a full overhaul, we minimize disruption and maximize results.
Benefits of Siding Installation in Bellingham
Why invest in new siding? Beyond the obvious aesthetic upgrade, here’s what Bellingham homeowners gain:
- Weather Protection: Quality siding keeps rain and wind out, preventing costly repairs in Whatcom County’s wet seasons.
- Energy Efficiency: Insulated siding—like vinyl with backing—reduces heat loss, cutting bills in chilly winters.
- Curb Appeal: A fresh exterior transforms your home, whether it’s a modern metal look in Barkley or wood charm in Sudden Valley.
- Property Value: Real estate in Bellingham is hot, and new siding can boost resale value by 5-10%, per local market trends.
- Low Maintenance: Materials like vinyl or fiber cement need little upkeep, saving time and money long-term.
Why Choose Monarca for Your Siding Project?
As a Bellingham-based company, Monarca Construction & Remodeling LLC knows Whatcom County’s quirks—coastal air that rusts metal if untreated, rain that seeps into cracks if ignored. We’ve upgraded homes from Lynden to downtown Bellingham, tailoring each project to the neighborhood’s vibe and the homeowner’s needs. Our team uses top-tier materials, like UV-resistant vinyl or pre-primed fiber cement, and backs every job with a commitment to quality. Check out our siding services for examples of our work or give us a call at (360) 392-5577 for a free quote.