6-Unit Apartment Siding Upgrade in Lansing MI
- Christopher

- May 24
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 17
Christopher’s Handyman Service recently wrapped up a full siding replacement on a six-unit apartment building in Lansing’s Old Town neighborhood, and we couldn’t be more pleased with how it turned out. This project brought together durable materials, efficient scheduling and careful workmanship to give the property a fresh look and long-term protection against Michigan’s weather extremes.
Project Overview
The two-story building, constructed in the 1980s, had original vinyl siding that showed signs of cracking, fading and water intrusion at the seams. Tenants reported drafts in cold months and peeling paint inside common halls. Our goal was to replace all existing siding with a modern, low-maintenance fiber-cement option, improve energy performance and restore curb appeal.
Choosing the Right Material
We selected a cement-fiber siding product for its combination of strength and aesthetics. It resists warping, insect damage and moisture better than standard vinyl, and it holds paint exceptionally well. The color chosen—an earthy charcoal gray with crisp white trim—complements the building’s brick accents and helps the landscaping stand out.

Preparation and Removal
The first week was dedicated to preparation:
we installed scaffolding around the entire building and protected the foundation, walkways and plantings with tarps
our crew carefully removed old siding panels, separating reusable trim pieces
we inspected the sheathing beneath, replacing any damaged sections of plywood and sealing joints with flashing tape
Taking these steps ensured the new siding would anchor to a smooth, solid surface and that moisture wouldn’t penetrate beneath the cladding.
Installation Process
Over the next two weeks, our team:
installed a water-resistive barrier (house wrap) across all exterior walls
applied starter strips and precision-cut the fiber-cement boards to fit around windows, doors and corners
used corrosion-resistant nails and a pneumatic nailer set to the manufacturer’s depth settings
sealed all seams and trim with paintable, high-performance exterior caulk
completed white PVC corner posts, window casings and fascia trim for a clean, modern contrast
The job moved steadily thanks to clear communication, daily progress updates and quick resolution of any on-site questions.
Weatherproofing and Insulation

In addition to the new siding, we upgraded insulation in several high-heat-loss areas. Behind the master bedrooms and above the garage roofline, we added rigid-foam board insulation before wrapping. Combined with the tighter outer shell, tenants have already noted warmer rooms in winter and cooler units in summer.
Final Touches and Clean-Up
Once siding and trim were in place, we:
power-washed sidewalks and driveways to remove dust and debris
reinstalled exterior lighting fixtures and address numbers
hauled away all old material for recycling (where accepted) and disposed of the rest responsibly
walked through each unit’s exterior with the property manager to ensure satisfaction

Tenant and Owner Feedback
The property owner was impressed by how efficiently the project stayed on budget and on schedule. Tenants have commented on the building’s renewed appearance and tighter envelope, which should translate into lower energy bills. Better weatherproofing also means fewer maintenance calls for water leaks or siding damage.
Why Quality Siding Matters
A well-installed siding system does more than look good. It:
protects the structure from rain, snow and ice
limits air infiltration for better energy efficiency
offers fire resistance in fiber-cement products
reduces long-term maintenance costs
By choosing Christopher’s Handyman Service for siding on multi-unit properties, owners tap into our experience with both residential and light-commercial buildings. We understand the scheduling demands, tenant coordination and code requirements that come with apartments.
If your property needs an exterior update—whether it’s a single family home or a multi-unit complex—give us a call. We’ll assess your needs, recommend the best siding solution and provide a clear, no-obligation estimate. Protect your investment and make your building stand out in Lansing and central Michigan with siding that’s built to last.


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