Reading Construction Inc

Reading requires a building permit for re-siding, processed through the town Building Department. Because most homes built before 1978 are presumed to contain lead paint, siding work that disturbs old painted wood must follow the federal Lead RRP rule and use an EPA-certified, lead-safe firm — relevant for the older homes near the town center. Some mid-century homes carry asbestos-cement (transite) shingles, which require licensed abatement before removal rather than ordinary tear-off. Properties near wetlands tied to the Ipswich River may need Conservation Commission review for staging. Reputable contractors pull the permit and flag any lead or asbestos concerns up front.

Reading siding costs sit in the upper-mid tier — slightly below the inner Route 128 ring but above the broader north-of-Boston market. A standard vinyl re-side typically runs $12,000–$25,000 depending on size and stories; insulated (foam-backed) vinyl runs roughly $16,000–$30,000. Fiber-cement (James Hardie) lands at $20,000–$45,000 for a whole house, and natural cedar runs higher still. Without a gas account for Mass Save's weatherization rebates, any insulation added during the re-side comes at full cost less any RMLD incentive, so factor that into the budget when comparing material options.

Massachusetts requires a written contract and a Home Improvement Contractor registration for most residential siding work; ask for the registration number and check it before paying a deposit.

More on permits, costs, rebates and common questions, plus every other siding contractor serving the town, on the Siding in Reading page.