F.A.Q. ABOUT SIDING

VINYL SIDING​

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• What are the benefits of vinyl siding for Chicagoland homes? Vinyl siding is one of the most popular choices for Chicagoland homeowners because it's virtually maintenance free, highly durable, and built to handle extreme weather — from brutal Illinois winters to hot, humid summers. It never needs painting, won't rot or warp, and is available in dozens of colors and styles to match any home's exterior. It's also one of the most cost-effective ways to dramatically improve your home's curb appeal and energy efficiency at the same time.

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• How much does vinyl siding installation cost in the Chicagoland area? Vinyl siding costs typically range from $8,000–$18,000 for an average Chicagoland home depending on the size of your home, the style and thickness of siding selected, and whether insulated backing is included. We provide free, no-obligation in-home estimates so you know exactly what to expect before committing to anything.

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• How long does vinyl siding installation take? Most residential vinyl siding installations are completed in 2–5 days depending on the size of your home and the complexity of the project. Our crew handles full removal of your old siding, proper installation, and complete cleanup before we leave — minimizing disruption to your daily routine.

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• Is vinyl siding energy efficient? Yes — especially when installed with insulated vinyl siding backing, which adds a continuous layer of foam insulation around your entire home. This reduces thermal bridging, keeps heat in during winter and cool air in during summer, and can meaningfully lower your monthly energy bills. Many Chicagoland homeowners see a noticeable difference in comfort and utility costs after installation.

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• How long does vinyl siding last? Quality vinyl siding installed by a professional typically lasts 30–40 years with minimal upkeep. Unlike wood or fiber cement, vinyl doesn't require painting, caulking, or sealing to maintain its appearance and performance over time — making it one of the lowest maintenance exterior options available.

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• Does vinyl siding come in different styles and colors? Absolutely — we offer a wide range of vinyl siding profiles including traditional horizontal lap siding, board and batten, shake, and scallop styles in dozens of colors. Whether you want a classic look or a bold modern exterior, we'll help you find the perfect combination to complement your home's architecture and your personal style.

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HARDIE BOARD SIDING​

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• What is James Hardie fiber cement siding and why is it worth it? James Hardie fiber cement siding — commonly known as Hardie Board — is a premium siding material made from a blend of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. It's engineered to look exactly like real wood without any of the maintenance, and it's significantly more durable than vinyl. For Chicagoland homeowners who want the highest quality exterior available, Hardie Board is the gold standard.

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• How does Hardie Board siding hold up in Chicago winters? James Hardie actually engineers their siding specifically for regional climates — and their product line for the Midwest is designed to withstand extreme freeze-thaw cycles, heavy snow loads, high winds, and humidity. It won't warp, crack, rot, or swell regardless of what Mother Nature throws at it, making it an ideal choice for Illinois homeowners who want a siding that truly lasts.

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• What is the difference between vinyl siding and Hardie Board? Both are excellent options, but they serve different needs. Vinyl siding is more affordable, lighter, and virtually maintenance free. Hardie Board is heavier, more impact resistant, fire resistant, and has a more authentic wood-like appearance that significantly boosts curb appeal and home value. Hardie Board also holds paint longer and resists fading better than vinyl. During your free consultation we'll help you decide which option is the best fit for your home and budget.

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• Is Hardie Board siding fire resistant? Yes — one of the biggest advantages of fiber cement siding is that it is non-combustible, meaning it won't ignite or contribute to the spread of fire the way wood or vinyl siding can. This is a significant safety advantage and can even positively impact your homeowner's insurance premium.

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• How long does Hardie Board siding last? James Hardie backs their siding with a 30-year limited warranty, and with proper installation and periodic repainting every 10–15 years, Hardie Board can realistically last 50+ years. It's one of the most long-lasting exterior investments a homeowner can make.

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• How much does Hardie Board siding cost compared to vinyl? Hardie Board typically costs 20–40% more than vinyl siding due to the cost of materials and the additional labor required for installation. However, the superior durability, lower long-term maintenance costs, and higher home value return make it an excellent investment for homeowners who plan to stay in their home long term or want maximum resale value.

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SHUTTERS

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• What types of exterior shutters does Legacy Glass Block offer? We offer a wide range of exterior shutters including raised panel, board and batten, louvered, and decorative styles in dozens of colors to complement any siding. Whether you're looking for a classic traditional look or a bold modern contrast, we'll help you find the perfect shutter style and color to complete your home's exterior.

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• Do exterior shutters serve a functional purpose or are they just decorative? Today's exterior shutters are primarily decorative, but they serve a very important visual purpose — they frame your windows, add depth and dimension to your home's exterior, and create a finished, polished look that dramatically boosts curb appeal. The right shutter color and style can completely transform how a home looks from the street.

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• What color shutters should I choose to complement my new siding? This depends on your siding color and the look you want to achieve. Classic combinations like white shutters on gray siding, black shutters on white siding, or red shutters on gray siding are timeless and always look sharp. During your consultation our team will help you choose a combination that complements your home's architecture, siding color, and trim for a cohesive, professional finish.

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• Are exterior shutters low maintenance? Yes — our exterior shutters are made from durable vinyl or composite materials that never need painting and won't rot, warp, or fade over time. They're designed to hold their color and shape through Chicagoland's harsh winters and hot summers with nothing more than an occasional rinse to keep them looking great.

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• Can I add shutters to my home at the same time as new siding? Absolutely — and we highly recommend it. Installing shutters at the same time as your new siding is the most cost-effective approach and ensures everything is perfectly sized, coordinated, and installed together for a seamless finished look. It's the perfect finishing touch to any siding project.

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• Why choose Legacy Glass Block for siding installation? With 40+ years of experience serving Chicagoland homeowners in Frankfort, Mokena, New Lenox, Tinley Park, and surrounding communities, we bring the same attention to detail and commitment to quality to every siding project that we're known for in glass block and windows. We stand behind every installation with strong warranties, honest pricing, and free no-pressure estimates — because that's how neighbors treat neighbors.