When Should You Replace Siding?

In addition to adding a nice aesthetic to your property, siding offers protection for your home as well as energy efficiency. Over time, it can start to fade, chip, peel, or crack, depending on the material. In order to ensure it continues to provide full protection for your home, you may have to replace the siding at some point. How do you know when it’s time?

From warping and bubbling to dry rot and cracks, here are some of the top signs that it’s time to replace your siding in Virginia.

Hail Damage

You may already know that hail is capable of damaging your roof, but did you also know it can damage your siding as well? From dents and chips to cracks and divots, your siding may be compromised by excessive hail damage during a storm. Just like inspecting your roof, it’s important to inspect your siding after a severe storm to see if any damage has occurred. And also just like roofing, it can be difficult to spot siding damage on your own. This is why you should call an experienced roofer and sider to provide a thorough inspection.

Many contractors, like NVB Contracting, offer comprehensive storm restoration services.

Bubbling Siding

When water gets trapped between the siding and your home, this can lead to leaks, rot, and mold, not to mention insect infestation. Water buildup is not something to take lightly. When you see bubbling siding, often the problem has gotten to a serious point, and you may need to replace it, depending on the extent of the damage.

Whether due to a defective product or poor installation, water buildup can result in expensive repair or replacement bills for you the longer you wait to address it.

Higher Energy Bills

If your energy bills have been creeping up and you can’t find another reason for it, the insulative properties of your siding may be compromised. Siding is designed to protect the property from extreme temperature variations. If you have noticed rising heating and cooling bills with no other obvious cause, your siding could be lacking sufficient insulation to keep you comfortable.

Mold and Mildew

Siding that has been overcome with mold, mildew, and fungus may have to be replaced if regular pressure washing doesn’t do the trick. That’s because over time, these organic substances can actually eat away at your siding, compromising its appearance and effectiveness. That mold and mildew can eventually get inside your walls, so it’s important not to ignore this problem. Regular pressure washing can help.

Peeling Paint Inside the Home

Moisture can cause your interior wallpaper and paint to peel, which is yet another sign that your siding is no longer doing its job. Addressing this problem early will ensure the wood underneath the siding does not rot, or at least worsen. Once wood root occurs, siding replacement is necessary, as it can compromise the structural integrity of the home.

Warped or Cracked Siding

These are two signs your siding could be damaged beyond repair. Take a walk around your home and take a close look at the state of your siding, at least twice a year. Even small cracks can lead to a bigger problem if neglected. Poke at the siding to feel if there is a solid layer underneath or if it feels spongy when you touch it. Rot could be happening behind those cracked or warped portions due to water damage.

Severe Fading

All siding will fade given enough time due to the constant onslaught of UV rays from the sun. But if your siding has lost its vibrant color and has experienced severe fading, this could mean that its weather proofing properties have been compromised. Plus, it detracts from the curb appeal of your home. You may want to upgrade your siding before something more serious occurs.

More Frequent Painting

If you have wood siding, you know what a costly hassle it is to paint your home every five to 10 years. But if you find that you are having to paint more frequently than that, or you’re just tired of this big maintenance task, it’s time to invest in vinyl or fiber cement siding. You will never have to paint again!

Have you noticed any of the above signs of siding failure? The longer you wait to replace it, the worse the problem will become. It can’t hurt to get a professional inspection so you know where you stand and what your options are.

Need New Siding or a New Roof? Book a FREE Inspection Today!

From new siding to new roofs, we can restore your home to its former beauty while adding energy efficiency, protection, and comfort to the mix as well. We welcome you to contact us today to book your free inspection throughout Virginia, West Virginia, and Maryland.