Siding, Roofing, Windows & Decks in Mercer Island, WA

Census data puts the median home value in Mercer Island at $2,000,000, which is 117% above the King County median. King County assessor records add that 64% of single-family homes here are built to grade 9 or higher, the higher-end range. Houses like these tend to be kept for the long term, and their exteriors get the same care as the rooms inside. As an exterior contractor serving the island, Builders Service Company replaces siding, roofing, windows and decks across King County. This page covers what is on local homes now, which materials fit them, and what to weigh before you start.

Homes in Mercer Island: what’s on them now

King County assessor records count 7,126 single-family homes on the island, with a median build year of 1969. One era dominates: 62% were built between 1950 and 1979, 15% between 1980 and 1999, 16% in 2000 or later and 6% before 1950. Census data shows 67% of housing units are detached houses and 31% are apartments.

For a house from the 1950s through the 1970s, the original exterior was often cedar, T1-11 or asbestos-cement shingle siding, with aluminum or early vinyl windows. Asbestos-cement shingles may contain asbestos and should be tested before removal. Homes from the 1980s and 1990s belong to the era of composite and hardboard siding and first-generation vinyl windows. Newer houses are reaching the point where builder-grade siding and windows need their first repaint or replacement.

Several of the larger subdivisions follow the same pattern:

• East Seattle Add: 273 homes, median year built 1959
• Madrona Crest Add: 180 homes, median year built 1961
• Allview Heights Add: 193 homes, median year built 1967
• Mc Gilvras Island Add: 288 homes, median year built 1974

The assessor rates 59% of homes in good or very good condition, and 12% have been renovated. Permits for exterior work here go through the City of Mercer Island.

Siding in Mercer Island

Most siding on Mercer Island went up between 1950 and 1979, the build era of 62% of single-family homes in King County assessor records. Those houses often still carry original cedar, T1-11 or asbestos-cement shingles, and asbestos-cement should be tested before removal. Another 10% were built from 1985 to 1996, when LP and other hardboard siding was common; that siding has a known history of moisture failure.

These are the types we usually recommend, and none of them is wood:

• Evergreen Shield Siding System: our exclusive insulated composite siding, designed for the Pacific Northwest. Its insulating graphite membrane gives a thermal resistance of R-2.0, compared with R-0.61 for standard vinyl, which counts on the 38% of homes that Census data shows heating with electricity. It also comes in 20 built-in, fade-resistant colors that don’t need repainting.
• Metal siding: with home values 117% above the county median, owners here more often choose metal or the Evergreen Shield Siding System for a long-term upgrade.
• Vinyl siding: the most versatile and least expensive option, and a practical fit for large wall areas.
• Stacked stone and stone veneer: accents for entries, columns, chimneys or a wainscot along the base. Only 9% of homes have any brick or stone on the exterior today.

Wall area matters too. Assessor records show 48% of homes have two or more stories, which means more siding and more ladder and staging work to plan for. The right material for your house is something we sort out together at the free in-home consultation.

Read more about siding replacement in Mercer Island.

Roofing in Mercer Island

Roofs age with the houses under them. Census data puts the median year built for Mercer Island housing at 1973, so a replacement often starts with checking how many layers are already on the roof deck before new work goes on.

The Eastside gets moderate rain. The details that keep water out matter as much as the roofing itself: underlayment, flashing where the roof meets walls and chimneys, and attic ventilation that lets moisture escape. Keep an eye out for debris collecting on your shingles or pieces missing from the roof; either one is a reason to have the roof looked at.

We install two main roofing types and give them equal weight:

• Asphalt shingle roofing: a familiar look for pitched roofs, installed with careful sealing and ventilation.
• EDCO metal roofing: a metal roof that sheds water quickly. Assessor records show 10% of homes are on the waterfront, and those roofs need corrosion-resistant metal finishes and fasteners.

Wildfire risk is rated Low here, at the 46th percentile in Washington, so the choice between asphalt and metal usually comes down to appearance, upkeep and the shape of the roof rather than fire rating. Height plays a part as well: 48% of homes have two or more stories, which affects staging and safety setup on steeper, taller roofs.

We walk the roof and talk through both options during a free in-home consultation. Learn more about roof replacement in Mercer Island.

Windows in Mercer Island

Census data shows a median build year of 1973 for Mercer Island housing, and 51% of units date from 1950 to 1979. Homes from that era often still have single-pane glass or aluminum frames that let heat out and drafts in. Houses from the 1980s and 1990s, 16% of the total, tend to have first-generation vinyl windows whose seals are now failing.

We install Preservation 9000 vinyl replacement windows and are the exclusive provider of Preservation 9000 in Washington. Styles include double-hung, slider, casement, awning, hopper, picture, garden, bay and bow, and custom shapes. Matching the style to the room:

• View rooms: assessor records show 36% of homes have a view; picture windows and bay or bow units make the most of it.
• Kitchens and baths: casement, awning or hopper windows open for ventilation.
• Upper floors: sliders or casements work well under tight eaves.
• Design review: where an HOA or design review applies, double-hung profiles that match the originals are the safer choice, and it’s worth checking approvals before you order.

Heating fuel affects the payback. Census data shows 38% of homes heat with electricity, and efficient windows return more on those houses through reduced drafts and steadier indoor temperatures. PSE is the electric utility; check with PSE for current programs. With 67% of homes owner-occupied, many owners plan to stay long enough to see that benefit.

Get the details on window replacement in Mercer Island.

Decks in Mercer Island

Decks are standard on Mercer Island. King County assessor records show 68% of single-family homes have one, with a median size of 410 square feet, so many projects begin with an existing deck that needs replacing.

We build with wood, vinyl and composite decking. The Eastside gets moderate rain, and boards that stay damp grow moss and can rot. Composite and vinyl don’t rot and don’t need staining, which keeps upkeep down. On any surface, plan for drainage and slip resistance. Wood still suits owners who want a natural look and are willing to seal it regularly.

Views shape a lot of deck designs here. Assessor records show 36% of homes have a view and 10% sit on the waterfront. Choose a railing that keeps your sightlines open, and on waterfront lots use corrosion-resistant fasteners and hardware so the structure holds up near the water.

A deck should work as usable outdoor space that fits how you live. Learn more about deck building in Mercer Island.

Get a free in-home consultation

Every house is different, so we start at yours: our team looks at the property and talks through the options that fit it. Schedule a free in-home consultation through our contact page or call our Seattle office at 206-430-1927. Financing is available, along with discounts for seniors, active military, veterans and first responders. Our work carries a lifetime warranty.