Nelson Exteriors is a family-owned and operated, second-generation company that's served homeowners since 1977. Over the years, we've learned that a successful siding project isn't just about the finished exterior. It's also about communication, preparation, and paying attention to the details along the way.
Here's what homeowners can expect from our process.
Step 1: Consultation and Planning
Every siding project starts with a conversation.
During your on-site consultation, we'll take a look at your existing siding, talk through what you want to change, and answer questions about materials, styles, timing, and the work itself.
If you're still weighing your options, that's okay too. Nelson Exteriors doesn't believe in high-pressure sales. Our goal is to give you a clear understanding of the project and a straightforward proposal so you can decide what makes sense for your home.
The Nelson Exteriors Difference
We're here to help you make an informed decision, not pressure you into one. That means clear answers, practical recommendations, and room to think through your options.
How Can You Prepare for Siding Installation?
You don't need to completely rearrange your life before a siding project, but a few simple steps can make the work easier for everyone.
Before installation begins, it helps to:
- Move patio furniture, grills, planters, and decorations away from the house.
- Trim back landscaping if it blocks access to exterior walls.
- Take fragile items off shelves or walls inside, since siding work can cause some vibration.
- Keep pets and children away from active work areas.
- Ask your project manager about access, material delivery, or anything else you should expect on the first day.
Your project manager will also go over the project with you ahead of time, so you're not left guessing once the crew arrives.

Step 2: Renovation and Siding Installation
Once your project is scheduled, Nelson Exteriors takes care of the details so you know what's happening and what comes next. Exterior work can be disruptive, so we focus on clear communication, thoughtful scheduling, and keeping the project moving as smoothly as possible.
Your project manager coordinates the work, stays in touch throughout the installation, and helps answer questions along the way.
If you're considering siding installation and replacement, Nelson Exteriors offers James Hardie fiber cement siding options, including fiber cement lap siding and HardiePlank siding.
What Should Happen During a Professional Siding Installation?
Once work begins, the exact steps will depend on your home and the scope of the project. In general, the crew will remove the siding being replaced, inspect the areas underneath, prepare the exterior, install the appropriate protective materials, and then begin installing the new siding and trim.
That work should include attention to details that are easy to miss once the finished siding is in place, including house wrap, moisture protection, alignment, trim, and transitions around windows, doors, and other exterior features.
For homeowners considering fiber cement siding installation, proper installation matters just as much as the product itself. Homeowners can also review James Hardie's siding resources to learn more about the product and installation process.
The Nelson Exteriors Difference
Every siding project has a dedicated project manager who's on-site most days and stays in touch if they can't be there. They also check quality throughout the job, not just at the end.
How Long Does Siding Installation Take in Georgia?
For many homes, a typical siding replacement takes about 7 to 14 days. The exact timeline can vary based on the size and layout of your home, how much siding is being replaced, weather, and whether repairs are uncovered once the old siding comes off.
Your project manager will talk through the expected schedule before work begins and keep you updated if something changes along the way. That's especially helpful for exterior projects in North Metro Atlanta, where weather can occasionally affect the schedule.
What Are Some Siding Installation Mistakes to Watch For?
Most homeowners are naturally focused on how the new siding will look. But some of the most important parts of a siding project are the things you won't see once the job is finished.
A few issues worth paying attention to include:
- Skipping moisture protection. House wrap and other protective details shouldn't be treated as shortcuts.
- Covering up a problem. If damaged material is uncovered, it should be evaluated before new siding goes over it.
- Poor communication. You should know who's managing your project and who to contact when you have a question.
- Little oversight during the work. Quality control should happen throughout the installation, not only at the end.
- Rushing through cleanup and inspection. A project isn't finished just because the last piece of siding is installed.
A clear process helps reduce surprises and gives everyone a better understanding of what "done right" should look like.
Step 3: Cleanup, Walkthrough, and Celebration
Once the work is finished, it's time to enjoy the difference new siding can make.
Installing siding is messy work, so cleanup is part of the project too. The crew removes project debris and gets the work area back in order before wrapping up.
The Nelson Exteriors Difference
We won't throw a party for your new siding, but we will make sure there aren't any loose ends. Your project manager completes a final quality check and walkthrough with you before the job is considered complete.
A Better Siding Project Starts With a Clear Process
Choosing new siding is a big decision, but the installation itself shouldn't feel confusing.
Nelson Exteriors has served homeowners since 1977, and some of our crews have worked with us for 5 to 15 years. That experience, along with dedicated project managers and ongoing quality control, helps us provide the resources of a larger company while still giving homeowners a more personal experience.
You can learn more about our story or see how Nelson Exteriors serves homeowners in Marietta, GA.
Ready to talk through your siding project? Contact us online to Schedule a Free Consultation with Nelson Exteriors today.

Siding Installation Process FAQs
Do I need to leave my home during siding installation?
In most cases, homeowners can remain at home while siding is being installed. You can expect some noise, vibration, and active work areas outside, so it helps to plan around those disruptions.
What happens if damage is found under my old siding?
If an issue becomes visible after siding is removed, it should be evaluated before new material is installed over the area. Your contractor should explain what was found and talk through the next step with you.
What should I look for in a siding contractor?
Look for clear communication, consistent project oversight, attention to moisture protection, experienced crews, and quality checks throughout the job. It's also worth reviewing past work and customer feedback before making your decision.
What are signs I may need siding repair or replacement?
Common signs include cracked, loose, warped, or rotting siding, areas where moisture has gotten behind the siding, peeling paint or repeated maintenance problems, and sections that are pulling away from the home. If damage is limited to a small area, a repair may be enough. More widespread deterioration may point to replacement.
Not sure how serious the problem is? These signs it may be time to replace your Atlanta siding can help you know what to look for.