The siding on your home adds to its aesthetic appeal and protects it from the elements. Knowing when to replace your siding is crucial for maintaining your home's integrity and value. Here are key signs that suggest your home's siding needs attention.
1. Warping or Bulging Siding
Regular inspections might reveal that the siding no longer lies flat against your house. Warping or bulging can indicate that the siding material is failing and may allow moisture to get underneath, leading to more significant damage.
2. Cracked or Loose Siding
A few cracks may not always require a full replacement, but if you notice widespread cracked or loose panels, that's a different story. This could allow water to seep through, which is a sign that your siding needs replacing.
3. Fungus, Mold, or Mildew Growth
The presence of fungus, mold, or mildew, especially at or near the seams in your siding, might suggest that water penetrates it and possibly accumulates in the wall.
4. Bubbles Under Siding
Bubbles are an unmistakable indication that water has become trapped. Siding keeps moisture away, so bubbling is a red flag.
5. Faded Siding
While fading may not be harmful, it can be a sign of aging. Manufacturers typically rate siding for its ability to retain color for several years; excessive fading could indicate that your siding is beyond its life expectancy.
6. High Energy Bills
If you've ruled out other causes for increased heating and cooling costs, the culprit may be your siding. Damaged or aging siding can compromise your home's insulation, leading to higher energy bills.
7. Peeling Paint or Wallpaper Inside the Home
This may be surprising, but problems with siding can sometimes show up inside the house. If moisture is getting through the siding, it can cause interior paint or wallpaper to peel.
8. Dry Rot
Tap on various areas of your wood siding. You could be dealing with dry rot if things feel soft or crumble easily. This problem often starts beneath the surface of the siding, and you may be unaware of it until it's too late for a simple fix.
9. Needing to Repaint Frequently
Siding should keep its color for at least 8-10 years, if not longer. If you need to repaint more often than this, it could be because the siding can no longer hold onto the paint as it should due to aging or damage.
10. Hail or Storm Damage
After severe weather events, inspecting your siding for dents, cracks, or holes is always good. Some damage may be cosmetic, but it's essential to ensure there's no more profound destruction.
11. Siding That No Longer Matches Your Style
Sometimes, your siding might still perform well, but you want to update your home's look. Changing trends or personal preferences can also be an excellent reason to replace siding.
Residential Siding Services in Mankato
If you're considering upgrading your home's siding for improved insulation and energy efficiency, Tieva Contracting, is here to help. Our expertise in professional siding installation and maintenance ensures that your home not only looks great but also saves you money on energy costs. Contact us today at (507) 577-5438 to explore your siding options and take the first step towards a more comfortable and sustainable home.