Tips to Tell That I Need New Siding

Siding is the shield around your home that protects it from weather-related stress, temperature fluctuations, and moisture build-up. Since all of these things represent threats to your safety and comfort, siding should be taken seriously and be properly maintained. Although painting and repairs can increase the life of your siding, there are times when it is best to replace it altogether. Here are some signs that your siding needs to be replaced.

1. Rot

Rotten siding means a weakened siding. If there are areas in your siding that are soft or crumbling, this means that it may not be able to keep water out of your house. If there is widespread rot on your siding it is advisable to replace it with rot-proof material.

2. Cracks

Like rot, cracks in your siding mean that water is liable to get into your home and damage the wooden interior. Cracks also allow pests to get into your home. Rodents and insects can be an annoyance or a direct threat to the house itself.

3. Too Much Maintenance

When repairs to your siding become overwhelming, you may want to replace it with a less labor-intensive material. Vinyl siding is a cheap option that is durable and requires relatively little upkeep.

4. Decreased Efficiency

Even if there are no visible signs of damage to your siding’s exterior, drafts near windows or walls may indicate that your siding is due for replacement. One important function of siding and the insulation behind it is to stabilize your home’s interior temperature. As your siding deteriorates, you may find yourself spending more on energy as you compensate for the loss of efficiency with more heating and cooling.

5. Warped Siding

Siding should be flush with the house. If you notice any protrusions or warping, it could mean that there are problems behind the exterior. Sometimes, intense heat or cold can cause siding to become disfigured. Once it has lost its shape, replacement is the only way to fix the problem.

6. Mold

Moldy siding can often be cleaned off. However, if you find excess moisture inside your home, there’s a chance that your siding is failing. Wherever you find a build-up of interior mold, check the siding that corresponds to that area in order to locate the problem.

7. Selling your home?

According to the 2018 Cost vs. Value Report, siding replacement had a 76.7 percent return on investment. If you have doubts about the quality of your siding and are considering selling your home in the future, siding replacement may be a wise investment.