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Hamilton Exteriors — Northern California roofing, siding, and exterior remodeling
4.8-star rated by 39 verified Northern California homeowners

CSLB #1078806 · Architect & General Contractor · Building Northern California homes since 2018

Siding Contractor in San Rafael

Serving San Rafael & Marin County
Licensed & Insured
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Hamilton Exteriors provides professional siding services in San Rafael, California. San Rafael is Marin County's largest city with approximately 23,000 housing units. The mix of mid-century homes in the Dominican and Gerstle Park neighborhoods alongside newer developments means a wide range of roofing needs. Licensed under CSLB #1078806, we handle all San Rafael building permits and inspections. Call (650) 977-3351 for an estimate.

Marin County and the City of San Rafael both require building permits for roof replacements. San Rafael's Community Development Department typically processes residential permits within 1-2 weeks. For San Rafael siding specifically, our work across Dominican, Gerstle Park and Sun Valley comes down to fiber cement vs stucco vs vinyl trade-offs, drainage plane detailing, and the prep work that determines whether the finish lasts 15 years or 35 — the kind of decisions an architect-led design-build team is set up to call.

San Rafael homeowners trust Hamilton Exteriors for siding replacement and installation that stands up to Marin County's coastal climate. We are a James Hardie Elite Preferred installer and an architect-led design-build contractor serving San Rafael since 2018. Every project includes a fully itemized estimate, a dedicated project manager, and a 50-year manufacturer warranty.

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Why San Rafael Homes Need the Right Siding

San Rafael sits at the intersection of two distinct Bay Area microclimates. Homes near the bay and the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge corridor experience persistent coastal fog and salt-laden air. Homes in the Terra Linda and Lucas Valley areas, further inland, see hotter, drier summers. This climate range demands siding materials that resist moisture, salt corrosion, and temperature swings.

Marin County is also designated a Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone by CAL FIRE. Homes in these zones require Class A fire-rated exterior materials, including siding and roofing, to comply with California Chapter 7A building standards. Fiber cement siding carries a Class A fire rating and will not melt or ignite like vinyl, making it the recommended choice for San Rafael properties in fire-prone areas.

Seismically, Marin County lies near the western edge of the San Andreas Fault. While most of the county is classified as moderate seismic risk, proper siding installation includes secure fastening to the building's structural frame. This matters during seismic events, when loose or poorly attached siding can become a hazard.

Siding Services We Offer in San Rafael

We install, replace, and repair all major siding materials. Each option is suited to different San Rafael home styles and budgets.

James Hardie Fiber Cement Siding

James Hardie fiber cement is the most popular siding choice for San Rafael homeowners. It is engineered for coastal climates with HZ10 technology that resists moisture, fog, and salt air. It carries a Class A fire rating, will not rot or warp, and delivers an 86% return on investment at resale according to Remodeling Magazine's 2024 Cost vs. Value Report. Hamilton Exteriors is a James Hardie Elite Preferred installer, the highest certification level, which means your installation carries an extended manufacturer warranty.

We offer HardiePlank lap siding, HardieShingle panels, and HardiePanel vertical siding in a range of factory-applied ColorPlus finishes that resist fading and chalking.

Vinyl Siding

Premium CertainTeed and Ply Gem vinyl siding is a cost-effective option for San Rafael homes not located in WUI fire zones. It is available in 60+ colors and textures, requires minimal maintenance, and resists moisture. Vinyl siding costs less upfront than fiber cement but has a shorter lifespan of 20 to 30 years and cannot be used in fire zones where Class A materials are required.

Stucco Siding

Traditional three-coat stucco and EIFS systems suit San Rafael's Mediterranean and Spanish Colonial homes. Stucco is non-combustible, lasts 50 to 80 years with proper maintenance, and provides excellent noise reduction. It is a strong choice for homes in the Canal and Gerstle Park neighborhoods where older architecture calls for a seamless, textured finish.

Exterior Waterproofing and Moisture Protection

Behind every siding installation, we install a full weather-resistant barrier (WRB) system. This includes peel-and-stick flashing at all windows, doors, and penetrations, plus a mechanically fastened house wrap across wall surfaces. In San Rafael's fog belt, where moisture can penetrate behind siding that appears intact from the outside, a proper WRB is your home's primary defense against dry rot and structural water damage.

How Much Does Siding Cost in San Rafael?

All prices are per 100 square feet (one square) installed, including removal of existing siding, new weather barrier, materials, labor, trim, and cleanup. Actual pricing varies based on home size, number of stories, architectural details, and access. Pricing reflects Hamilton Exteriors 2024-2026 project data.

Material Installed Price Per Square Total Cost for 2,000 sq ft Home
Vinyl siding $975 to $1,275 $19,500 to $25,500
James Hardie fiber cement $2,100 to $2,325 $42,000 to $46,500
Stucco (three-coat) $1,950 $39,000
Exterior waterproofing $825 $16,500

Prices reflect Hamilton Exteriors installed pricing as of Q2 2026. Multi-story homes require scaffolding, which adds $1,500 to $4,000 (Hamilton Exteriors 2024-2026 project data). Homes with significant dry rot or water damage behind existing siding will need sheathing repairs before new siding goes on. Every Hamilton Exteriors estimate is fully itemized — materials, labor, trim, weather barrier, and disposal costs are all listed separately.

Why San Rafael Homeowners Choose Hamilton Exteriors

Architect-led design-build. Unlike most siding contractors, Hamilton Exteriors is led by Alexander Hamilton Li, a licensed architect and general contractor (CSLB #1078806). This means we evaluate your siding as part of the whole building system — considering ventilation, structural capacity, energy performance, and aesthetics together. We do not just install siding; we design the right exterior system for your home.

Factory-trained installers. Every crew member is manufacturer-certified by James Hardie, GAF, and CertainTeed. They are licensed, bonded, insured, and background-checked before they touch your home.

50-year warranty. James Hardie fiber cement siding carries a 50-year limited transferable warranty. Hamilton Exteriors backs every installation with our own workmanship guarantee for the full duration.

Your own project manager. One dedicated point of contact from first call to final walkthrough. You will always know who to reach.

Transparent pricing. Every estimate is itemized line by line — materials, labor, permits, cleanup. You see exactly where your money goes before we start.

Do You Need a Permit for Siding Replacement in San Rafael?

Yes. Most siding replacement projects in San Rafael require a building permit from the City of San Rafael Building Division. Permit fees typically range from $200 to $600 depending on the scope of work. Hamilton Exteriors handles the entire permit process — application, plan submission, and scheduling inspections. Permit fees appear as a separate line item in your estimate so you will see every cost upfront.

For homes in WUI fire zones, we ensure full compliance with local fire-rated material requirements. This includes verifying that siding materials meet Chapter 7A standards and that all penetrations are properly sealed with fire-rated caulk.

Get Your Free Siding Estimate in San Rafael

Ready to discuss your San Rafael siding project? Call us at (650) 977-3351 or fill out the form below. We will reach out within 3 to 5 minutes to schedule your on-site inspection. A specialist will visit your home within 3 days to measure and quote — at no cost.

Get Your Free Quote


Reviewed by Alexander Hamilton Li, Architect & General Contractor · CSLB #1078806 · Updated April 2026

Local Expertise

Siding in San Rafael: What Local Homeowners Need to Know

Victorian homes in Gerstle Park feature original wood clapboard needing careful restoration. Terra Linda has board-and-batten or T1-11 — fiber cement is a common upgrade. Environmental Design Review applies to additions over 500 sqft.

San Rafael's climate — noticeably warmer and less foggy than Mill Valley — can be 15°F higher than Sausalito. Moderate fire risk on hillside neighborhoods (Sun Valley, Lucas Valley). Canal District is a low-lying flood zone. — directly impacts siding performance and material selection. The most common issues we address in San Rafael include wide range due to housing diversity: Victorian homes need foundation attention alongside roofing and mid-century flat roofs in Terra Linda/Lucas Valley prone to ponding. Hamilton Exteriors selects materials proven for San Rafael's Title 24 Climate Zone 2 conditions and backs every installation with our 50-year warranty.

San Rafael's housing stock spans 10% pre-1940, 25% 1940-1959, 30% 1960-1979. Architectural styles range from Victorian-era homes (1880s-1910s) in Gerstle Park and Dominican to ~1. Each era and style presents different siding requirements — from material compatibility to structural considerations. Our crews know what to expect before they arrive on site.

Factory-certified by our manufacturer partners

Owens Corning Preferred Contractor
CertainTeed ShingleMaster
GAF Master Elite Contractor
Tesla Powerwall Certified
James Hardie Elite Preferred
Rated 4.8 ★ from 39 Verified Northern California Homeowners

What Homeowners Say About Our Work

Real reviews from verified Northern California homeowners.

deborah maxey, Hamilton Exteriors customer

deborah maxey

in the last week

Great job and very professional the 1st photo is before and the other 2 is upon completion of work.

E

Eric W.

via Yelp

Hamilton Exteriors did an amazing job on my roof. The team was professional, and the quality of work was top-notch. Highly recommend!

R

Robert H.

via Angi

From the very first consultation, we knew we'd made the right choice. The team was knowledgeable and genuinely listened to our concerns about energy efficiency and design. We've already noticed a drop in our energy bills.

L

Laura G.

via Nextdoor

Hamilton Exteriors repaired extensive dry rot damage on our home's exterior. Their attention to detail and commitment to quality were evident throughout the project. Our home looks better than ever.

Northern California home with financing options available through Hamilton Exteriors
Financing Options

Financing Options Available For Everyone

Most Northern California exterior projects range from $15,000 for a standard roof replacement to $600,000 for a custom ADU — and paying out of pocket isn't the only option. Hamilton Exteriors partners with multiple lending providers to offer $0-down financing with approved credit, 12-month same-as-cash plans, and extended terms up to 15 years for larger projects. You only pay for completed, inspected work — we never ask for full payment before the job is done. Whether you're replacing a roof, upgrading siding, or building an ADU, your project manager will walk you through every payment option during your free estimate so you can choose what fits your budget.

Ask about same-as-cash plans during your estimate.

Premium Market

Siding Costs in San Rafael

$24,000–$42,000

Median home value in San Rafael: $1,300,000

Prices reflect San Rafael's premium market and Marin County labor rates. Actual costs depend on home size, materials, and project complexity. We provide free, itemized estimates with no hidden fees.

Get Your Estimate

Rated 4.8 stars by Northern California homeowners across BBB, Trustpilot, Google, and Yelp

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Rated 4.8/5.0

What Siding Options Are Available?

Vinyl Siding by Hamilton Exteriors in Northern California

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding is a versatile and durable exterior cladding made from PVC resin. It provides excellent resistance to weather, pests, and moisture, while requiring minimal maintenance. Available in a wide range of colors, textures, and styles.

Fiber Cement Siding by Hamilton Exteriors in Northern California

Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement siding, particularly James Hardie products, is a premium exterior cladding made from a blend of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. Renowned for its durability, it resists fire, pests, and harsh weather conditions while requiring minimal maintenance.

Stucco Siding by Hamilton Exteriors in Northern California

Stucco Siding

Stucco is a timeless and durable exterior finish made from a mixture of cement, sand, lime, and water. Known for its excellent weather resistance and energy efficiency, stucco provides a seamless, textured look that enhances both traditional and modern architectural designs.

Waterproofing by Hamilton Exteriors in Northern California

Waterproofing

Waterproofing ensures a home's exterior is protected from moisture, preventing water damage and mold. By creating a reliable barrier, it enhances the durability of siding materials and helps maintain a home's structural integrity in all weather conditions.

Neighborhoods We Serve

Siding Across San Rafael Neighborhoods

Lucas Valley

Lucas Valley homeowners frequently choose Hamilton Exteriors for siding. Victorian homes in Gerstle Park feature original wood clapboard needing careful restoration. With San Rafael's Summer highs upper-70s°F, material selection in Lucas Valley requires local expertise.

Downtown San Rafael

In Downtown San Rafael, homes are predominantly ~1. Terra Linda has board-and-batten or T1-11 — fiber cement is a common upgrade. Our crews are familiar with Downtown San Rafael's architectural character and building requirements.

Canal District

From Canal District to Gerstle Park, San Rafael homeowners trust Hamilton Exteriors for siding that stands up to noticeably warmer and less foggy than Mill Valley — can be 15°F higher than Sausalito. Moderate fire risk on hillside neighborhoods (Sun Valley. We handle permits, engineering, and installation — you get a single point of contact.

Terra Linda

Terra Linda's midcentury homes often feature original stucco, wood board, or T1-11 siding reaching the end of its useful life. We replace aging exteriors with James Hardie fiber cement products that match the clean lines of Eichler and ranch-style architecture while providing superior durability.

Peacock Gap

Peacock Gap's bayfront exposure subjects siding to salt air, UV, and wind-driven rain. James Hardie fiber cement resists all three while maintaining its appearance for decades, making it the preferred choice for this upscale San Rafael waterfront community.

Gerstle Park

Gerstle Park's historic homes deserve siding that honors their Victorian, Craftsman, and Colonial Revival architecture. We install Hardie products in lap, shingle, and board-and-batten profiles with period-appropriate detailing that enhances these cherished San Rafael residences.

Our Advantage

Why Choose
Hamilton Exteriors?

Transparent Pricing

Every estimate is itemized line by line — materials, labor, permits, cleanup. You see exactly where your money goes before we start.

Factory Trained Installers

Every crew member is manufacturer-certified and vetted — licensed, bonded, insured, and background-checked before they touch your home.

50-Year Warranty

50-year manufacturer warranty backed by our own workmanship guarantee for the full duration. If anything fails, we fix it — free.

Your Own Project Manager

One dedicated point of contact from first call to final walkthrough. You’ll always know who to reach.

Our Latest Projects

Powered by BackOffice
Architectural Shingle Roof Replacement in Antioch Roofing

Architectural Shingle Roof Replacement

Location

Antioch

Products

GAF Architectural Shingles

Completed

Jun 25, 2026

Architectural Shingle Roof Replacement in Fremont Roofing 3

Architectural Shingle Roof Replacement

Location

Fremont

Products

GAF Architectural Shingles

Completed

Jun 10, 2026

Architectural Shingle Roof Replacement in Fremont — photo 2Architectural Shingle Roof Replacement in Fremont — photo 3
New Roof Installation in Hayward Roofing

New Roof Installation

Location

Hayward

Products

GAF Architectural Shingles

Completed

Jun 5, 2026

Full Roof Replacement in Walnut Creek Roofing

Full Roof Replacement

Location

Walnut Creek

Products

GAF Architectural Shingles

Completed

Jun 2, 2026

James Hardie Siding Installation in Pleasanton Siding

James Hardie Siding Installation

Location

Pleasanton

Products

James Hardie

Completed

May 28, 2026

GAF Roof Replacement in Oakland Roofing

GAF Roof Replacement

Location

Oakland

Products

GAF Architectural Shingles

Completed

May 15, 2026

Architectural Roof Replacement in Berkeley Roofing

Architectural Roof Replacement

Location

Berkeley

Products

GAF Architectural Shingles

Completed

Apr 10, 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Didn't find the answer to your question? Call Now (650) 977-3351

What areas do you serve?

We serve Northern California across three regions: the San Francisco Bay Area (six counties from Alameda to Santa Clara), Greater Sacramento (Sacramento out to Roseville, Folsom, and Davis), and the Central Valley (Stockton to Modesto). Our crews are based in Castro Valley. We handle permits and know the building codes for each jurisdiction, which matters because requirements and fees vary significantly between cities.

How does billing and financing work?

We offer $0-down financing with approved credit, 12-month same-as-cash plans, and extended terms up to 15 years for larger projects. You only pay for completed, inspected work — we never ask for full payment before the job is done. Your project manager will walk you through every option during your estimate appointment. We also accept checks, ACH, and all major credit cards.

Are you licensed and insured?

Yes. CSLB License #1078806 — verify it anytime at cslb.ca.gov. We carry $2M general liability, full workers’ comp, and are bonded per California law. We hold GAF Master Elite, Owens Corning Preferred, CertainTeed ShingleMaster, and James Hardie Elite Preferred certifications — each requires annual training and quality audits to maintain. We’re happy to provide proof of insurance before any work begins.

Do I need a permit for my exterior project?

Most exterior projects in Northern California require a building permit. Fees vary by city — Oakland runs $200–$600, Peninsula cities often more. We handle the entire permit process: application, plan submission, and scheduling inspections. Permit fees appear as a separate line item in your estimate so you’ll see every cost upfront. For homes in WUI fire zones (Berkeley Hills, Oakland Hills, parts of Marin), we ensure full compliance with local fire-rated material requirements.

How Much Does Siding Cost in San Rafael?

All prices are per 100 square feet (one square) installed, including removal of existing siding, new weather barrier, materials, labor, trim, and cleanup. Actual pricing varies based on home size, number of stories, architectural details, and access. Pricing reflects Hamilton Exteriors 2024-2026 project data. | Material | Installed Price Per Square | Total Cost for 2,000 sq ft Home | |---|---|---| | Vinyl siding | $975 to $1,275 | $19,500 to $25,500 | | James Hardie fiber cement | $2,100 to $2,3

Do You Need a Permit for Siding Replacement in San Rafael?

Yes. Most siding replacement projects in San Rafael require a building permit from the City of San Rafael Building Division. Permit fees typically range from $200 to $600 depending on the scope of work. Hamilton Exteriors handles the entire permit process — application, plan submission, and scheduling inspections. Permit fees appear as a separate line item in your estimate so you will see every cost upfront. For homes in WUI fire zones, we ensure full compliance with local fire-rated material re

How much does siding replacement cost in San Rafael?

A full siding replacement on a typical 2,000 sq ft San Rafael home costs $19,500 to $46,500 depending on the material (Hamilton Exteriors 2024-2026 project data). James Hardie fiber cement runs $42,000 to $46,500 installed. Vinyl runs $19,500 to $25,500. Stucco runs approximately $39,000. These prices include removal of existing siding, new weather barrier, materials, labor, trim, and cleanup. Multi-story homes and those requiring scaffolding add $1,500 to $4,000.

Is James Hardie fiber cement siding worth the extra cost in San Rafael?

Yes for most San Rafael homes. Fiber cement lasts 50+ years, carries a Class A fire rating required in WUI zones, resists coastal fog and salt air, and delivers 86% ROI at resale. The higher upfront cost pays for itself through longer lifespan and higher resale return. Vinyl remains a smart choice for rental properties and budget-conscious projects where fire zone compliance is not required.

What is the best siding for San Rafael's coastal climate?

James Hardie fiber cement is the best choice for San Rafael's coastal climate. Its H

Do I need a permit for siding replacement in San Rafael?

Yes. Most siding replacement projects require a building permit from the City of San Rafael Building Division. Fees range from $200 to $600 (Hamilton Exteriors 2024-2026 project data). Hamilton Exteriors handles all permit applications and inspections. Permit fees are listed as a separate line item in your estimate.

How long does siding installation take in San Rafael?

James Hardie fiber cement siding projects generally run 1 to 2 weeks depending on your home's square footage, number of stories, and architectural complexity. Vinyl siding is faster — typically 3 to 5 days. Every project includes removal of old siding, inspection and repair of underlying sheathing, installation of a weather-resistant barrier, new siding, and trim and caulking. We work in sections around your home so exposed walls are never left unprotected overnight.

Can new siding help with energy efficiency?

Yes. Properly installed siding with a continuous weather-resistant barrier reduces air infiltration, which lowers heating and cooling costs. James Hardie fiber cement siding is denser than vinyl and provides better insulation. Adding an insulated weather barrier behind the siding further improves energy performance. San Rafael homes near the bay, where fog and wind drive heat loss, benefit most.

Does new siding increase home value in San Rafael?

James Hardie fiber cement siding delivers an 86% return on investment at resale according to Remodeling Magazine's 2024 Cost vs. Value Report. In San Rafael's competitive housing market, a new siding installation signals to buyers that the home's exterior is protected against moisture, fire, and weather damage. This can be a deciding factor in a multiple-offer situation.

How do I know if my siding needs replacement?

Common signs include warping or buckling panels, soft or spongy spots (indicating moisture damage behind the siding), peeling paint that returns within 1 to 2 years of repainting, visible cracks or holes, mold or mildew growth between panels, rising energy bills from air infiltration, and dry rot visible at corners or around windows. If damage affects more than 30% of your siding, full replacement is more cost-effective than patching. Hamilton Exteriors provides a complimentary on-site inspectio

What is dry rot and how does siding prevent it?

Dry rot is fungal decay that destroys wood framing when moisture penetrates behind siding. San Rafael homes in the fog belt are especially vulnerable. Modern siding installation includes a weather-resistant barrier with integrated flashing at every window, door, and penetration to create a continuous drainage plane. Fiber cement and vinyl siding are both immune to rot themselves, but the WRB system behind them is what protects your framing. Hamilton Exteriors inspects all underlying sheathing du

Does Hamilton Exteriors serve other Marin County cities?

Yes. We serve all of Marin County, including Mill Valley, San Rafael, Novato, Larkspur, Tiburon, Ross, and Fairfax. See our Marin County service area page for the full list.

Are you licensed and insured?

Yes. CSLB License #1078806 — verify it anytime at cslb.ca.gov. We carry $2M general liability, full workers' comp, and are bonded per California law. We hold GAF Master Elite, Owens Corning Preferred, CertainTeed ShingleMaster, and James Hardie Elite Preferred certifications. We are happy to provide proof of insurance before any work begins.

How does billing and financing work?

We offer $0-down financing with approved credit, 12-month same-as-cash plans, and extended terms up to 15 years for larger projects (Hamilton Exteriors 2024-2026 project data). You only pay for completed, inspected work — we never ask for full payment before the job is done. Your project manager will walk you through every option during your estimate appointment.

Our Services in San Rafael, California

San Rafael is Marin County's largest city with approximately 23,000 housing units. The mix of mid-century homes in the Dominican and Gerstle Park neighborhoods alongside newer developments means a wide range of roofing needs.

Marin County and the City of San Rafael both require building permits for roof replacements. San Rafael's Community Development Department typically processes residential permits within 1-2 weeks.

Ready to start? (650) 977-3351

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