Your home’s exterior is the first thing visitors see, so your siding should make a great impression. Although most siding is designed to be durable and can stay in good shape with simple maintenance such as power-washing or repainting, it eventually needs to be replaced. By completing a thorough visual inspection of your home’s exterior, you can look for several common signs that it’s time to update the siding.
When to Update Siding
The best way to determine if it’s time to replace your siding is to do a thorough visual inspection. Here are several indications that it may be time for an exterior siding renovation:
Water Damage
If your siding shows signs of water damage, it’s time to replace it. When water infiltrates your siding, it can cause structural issues or foundation damage that can jeopardize the integrity of your house.
Signs of water damage may include:
- Mold
- Mildew
- Rust
- Rotting
- Swelling
Cracks, Gaps, and Holes
Openings in your siding can provide a gateway for harmful insects and critters to enter your home. Some of these pests, such as termites or certain types of beetles, chew through wood and can cause major damage to your house. Cracks, gaps, and splits in your siding can also let moisture in, potentially causing foundation damage, a loss of structural integrity, or mold and mildew.
Although small openings could be repaired using stainable wood putty, larger holes or extensive cracking can signal the need to update the siding on your home.
Warping or Bulging
Distorted siding may be caused by something as simple as excessive heat from a nearby grill or repeated contact with a sprinkler. However, bulging or warped areas should be examined closely because they can signal hidden hazards such as water damage, insect infestations, or building movement. In these cases, it’s important to remedy the underlying problem before replacing the siding. It can be difficult to notice siding that isn’t laying flat, so to discover areas of concern, always inspect your siding from multiple angles.
Fading or Discoloration
Sometimes, despite cleaning and preventative maintenance, your siding just looks dingy and old. That’s because the UV rays from the sun eventually break down paint and cause colors to fade. If you notice fading, discoloration, or other signs of age and wear, it’s probably time to update the siding.
Drafts
Even if your siding shows no visible signs of damage, interior drafts may indicate the need for new siding. If you feel drafts along your walls or around electrical outlets and light switches, it may be a red flag that your current siding isn’t providing optimal protection for your home and should be replaced.
Benefits of Updated Siding
If you’re on the fence about an exterior siding renovation, you may also want to consider the potential benefits of updated siding. Beyond fixing problems with your pre existing siding, a siding update may:
- Add curb appeal
- Transform your home’s look
- Improve energy efficiency
- Simplify maintenance
- Increase resale value
Choosing New Vinyl Siding
Modern vinyl siding is durable and easy to maintain, and it’s available in an array of attractive styles and colors. Whether your old siding is failing or you’re just ready for an update, the experts at Thompson Creek can help you select the right vinyl siding for your home. Start your exterior siding renovation project today by contacting us for a free estimate.