Determining the exact time to replace siding on your home comes down to the current structural integrity of your home and the aesthetic look of your current siding. Because the siding is constantly exposed to the elements, it becomes damaged more easily than other home-building materials. Maintaining the siding by cleaning and making repairs quickly will help extend the life of residential siding. Whether you want to replace your siding for purely cosmetic reasons or to keep your home safe, the following signs will indicate it is time to replace your siding.
1- Visible Signs Of Damage
Looking at your siding on a clear day will often tell you what you need to know in terms of a replacement timeline. If you can see the visible damage or wear when walking around your home, this is a good sign to consider scheduling a replacement soon.
Even if your siding has been well maintained and properly installed, severe storms can cause the structure of the siding to change overnight. Wind, hail, or falling limbs can remove siding from your home, leaving it exposed to the elements.
2- Higher Energy Bills
Siding is a crucial part of your home’s insulation and protection from the weather. It helps to keep the inside temperature of your home from fluctuating. When you start to notice higher utility bills, your siding could be the culprit. Higher energy bills should be a push to replace siding around your home before the problem escalates.
3- The Growth Of Mold Or Mildew
Your siding is exposed to rain, humidity, and snow, which means that mold and mildew are almost inevitable. Mold growth can look like light green or dark streaks along your siding. Mildew and mold can deteriorate the siding and make it look discolored. Even if you remove the mold, you may still need to replace siding.
Mold and mildew can also get underneath your siding and cause damage to the structure of your house. When mold is present on your exterior siding, you should take the time to inspect this problem further. When you are not sure how to proceed, consult with a professional on whether cleaning or replacement is the best course of action.
4- Interior Paint Or Wallpaper Is Peeling
Damaged materials on the exterior of your home can introduce natural elements inside your home. Loose wallpaper or peeling paint is a sign that moisture is getting inside your walls. Even though there are layers of insulation and drywall between your interior and the siding, water, and heat from the environment can reach inside your home to cause serious damage to your house.
Most often, replacing the siding is enough to solve your problem. However, if your siding has been damaged for a long time, you may have rotting drywall, mold damage, asbestos, and other problems that need to be addressed first.
5- Soft Spots On The Siding
Soft or spongey siding is never a good thing to find. When you apply pressure to the siding, it shouldn’t have any “give”. If pressure causes the siding to dent or feel soft (especially wood siding), this is a key indicator that water has taken over. Water can get behind the siding and cause swelling in the sheetrock in your home and lessen its efficiency.
Having regular home inspections will help you catch these problems sooner and provide you with time to make repairs. Replacing the siding before it seeps into your interior will save you money on making further home repairs.
6- Your Exterior Appears Outdated
Visible signs of wear or discoloration are good signs you should update your siding. Even if the siding is not damaged, replacing it can increase the value of your home by giving it a more modern look. Younger home buyers may be looking for a more sleek design that new siding can give you. If you are looking to sell, updating your siding material is worth the investment.
7- Loose Siding Panels
Loos siding detracts from the appearance of your home. It also leaves your home susceptible to other elements. When the siding is lifting from the home, getting it repaired quickly will prevent damage to your insulation, drywall, and interior. When the siding panels are not fully attached, they are more likely to be ripped off during a storm, causing you to have exposed pieces of your home that look lackluster. Getting on top of siding replacement will keep your home looking pristine.
8- The Material Is Crumbling Or Chalky
Wood siding that has been exposed to excessive sunlight will start to crumble. When touching the siding, if you feel a chalky texture, the siding needs to be replaced. Addressing the issue promptly will help to keep the structural integrity of the home. Replace siding as quickly as possible to ensure that your home lasts for as long as possible.
As you are aware of the signs of when to replace siding, you will be better equipped to protect your home. Taking action quickly when siding is damaged not only makes you a good homeowner but elevates your curb appeal for a future sale.
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