Snow, ice and freeze-thaw
Spokane winters bring heavy snow and about 72 freeze-thaw cycles in an average year, according to NOAA's engineering weather data, which lists a 50-year ground snow load of 42 pounds per square foot. Snow piles against walls, ice dams send meltwater down siding, and water in gaps freezes and widens them. Siding should sit at the manufacturer's required clearance above grade, decks and roofs; kickout flashing where roofs meet walls directs meltwater away; and downspouts should carry water clear of the house.
Cold-weather installation
Vinyl is more brittle in cold weather and can crack during installation or if hit. Fiber cement and engineered wood need specific conditions for caulks and paint to cure. Many contractors schedule siding work for spring through fall. If work happens in cold weather, ask how they'll handle materials and finishes.
Frost and foundations
A joint City of Spokane and Spokane County codes policy sets frost depth at 24 inches for footings, but steps, patios and walkways near the house are shallower and can heave. Siding that's too close to those surfaces can be damaged when they move. Keep proper clearances at doors and patios.
Wildfire considerations
Parts of the Spokane area border forested land. Noncombustible siding such as fiber cement, ember-resistant vents and clearing vegetation near walls reduce risk. Check local requirements.
Behind the siding
A new water-resistive barrier and careful flashing at windows, doors and roof intersections protect walls from melting snow and spring rain.
Before you hire
Ask Spokane siding contractors which product suits snow and cold, what clearances they'll maintain, how they'll flash roof-to-wall intersections, whether they'll inspect sheathing, and what warranties cover. Use L&I's contractor lookup to check their Washington registration, bond and insurance.
Choosing a material for Spokane
Fiber cement handles cold, snow and fire well and is popular in the area. Engineered wood offers a wood look and impact resistance. Insulated vinyl is stiffer and more impact resistant than standard vinyl in cold weather. Ask the contractor to compare how each would hold up on your home's most exposed walls.
Maintenance
After each winter, inspect the bottom edge of the siding and the areas under roof edges for damage from ice and meltwater, check caulk around windows and doors, and touch up paint. Clear snow away from walls after storms rather than letting it pile up for weeks.
Older homes
Older Spokane homes may have wood siding with lead-based paint. Ask how the contractor handles lead-safe removal.
Permits
Re-siding may need a permit from the City of Spokane or Spokane County. Ask the contractor whether it's included and when inspections happen.
Windows and doors
If windows are drafty or failing, replace them during the siding project. Their flashing is then integrated with the new water-resistive barrier, which matters in a climate with this much snowmelt.