As a homeowner, your siding takes a beating from the elements year after year. Even professional siding needs proper maintenance and occasional repairs to stay in top shape. Being aware of a few common siding issues can help you address problems early and prevent more costly damage down the road. Read on to learn about some typical problems homeowners encounter with their home’s exterior siding.
1. Warping or Buckling
One frequent siding problem is warping or buckling. This occurs when the siding gets too hot from sun exposure and starts to bend or warp out of shape. Vinyl siding is particularly prone to heat-related warping. To prevent buckling, make sure trees or shrubs aren’t trapping heat against the siding. Also, choose lighter color siding or paint if your siding gets a lot of direct sun. Professional siding installers should leave adequate ventilation and spacing between siding pieces to allow for expansion and contraction as temperatures fluctuate. If you do notice warped siding, try washing it with cool water from your garden hose to see if the siding reshapes as it cools.
2. Cracking or Peeling Paint
Painted siding can start to crack, peel and chip over time. Factors like sun exposure, moisture, and normal expansion and contraction take a toll on exterior paint. Inspect your painted siding annually for any cracks or peeling, and make touch-ups as needed. Plan to repaint your home’s siding every five to seven years to keep it looking fresh and protected. When repainting, properly prep and clean the siding, caulk gaps, and use high-quality exterior paint formulated for your siding type.
3. Pest or Water Damage
Left unchecked, pests like termites can cause serious damage to your siding and the walls underneath. Regularly inspect your siding and eaves for any new holes or signs of insects. Address any damage right away by sealing openings, replacing compromised siding, and contacting a pest control professional as needed. Moisture from rain, sprinklers, and leaky gutters can also deteriorate the siding over time. Make sure gutters are clear and draining properly, so water doesn’t sit against the siding. Replace any visibly damaged or rotting siding pieces.
By keeping an eye out for common siding issues like warping, cracking paint, and pest damage, you can help your professional siding hold up for years to come. Most siding installation is rated for winds up to 110 mph, according to The Spruce. If the wind does rip it off, note that vinyl siding is much easier to re-install than other types of siding. With proper care and maintenance, your home’s siding should provide many years of curb appeal and weather protection. Call ROOFWORKS today to get started.
