Most homeowners give little thought to their siding. As long as it remains in good condition in their eyes it’s not a priority. This is okay until your siding starts leaking and chipping badly. If action is not taken soon after the leaking starts, you may find that you have to do extensive repair work that could cost double what new siding would.
Subtle tell tales that your house needs new siding include:
1. Frequent Painting
Good siding keeps its color and luster for ten years or longer. If you note that yours needs constant painting and that the color is fading quickly, it could be time for a change. When it starts chipping, then it actually needs changing before maintenance becomes an expensive affair.
2. Cracked Siding
If your siding is cracked, there could be more than meets the eye. If only a few boards are broken, then you could overlook it. However, if more than a few are showing signs of surrender, this could be a sign of more serious underlying issues that will require your attention. It is in your best interest to repair before the damage gets out of hand.
3. Rot
If you live in an area of high humidity and rain, your siding could easily be affected by the elements. Occasionally, take the time to do a thorough investigation of your home. If a few boards show signs of rot, check with a sharp object to know how extensive the rot is. It the boards show that it goes deep, then it is the right time for a change.
4. A Change in Color
New siding or siding that is still in great shape looks beautiful. The colors are brilliant, and you take pride in it. Your guests approve too. If your house is unique to the neighbors’ in a not-so-flattering way, it may be time for a change. Your siding is the first thing that people notice when they visit, so you may want to make sure that it stands out.
5. Loose Wallpaper
If you ignore the signs from outside the house for long enough, the problem finds you inside the house. The paint begins to peel off, and the wallpaper becomes loose. This is a clear indication that moisture starts to seep into your home, having penetrated the siding. At this point, you do not have any option but to have it replaced. The damage is already done, and there is a possibility that more parts of the interior have been damaged. The repairs at this level will be quite extensive.
6. Bubbles in the siding
Bubbles are a sign of water entrapment. If you have them, it is a clear indication that water has managed to get into the siding and it is headed for other parts of the interior. Apart from the decorative aspect, siding is meant to prevent water from getting into the house. That is its primary role. If water already made it inside, then the siding that you have no longer serves its purpose.
7. Holes on Your Siding
Insects cause holes. When they borough through and manage to attack your siding, it could mean that they have done some damage inside it and could be headed for the wood that makes up your foundation. The holes could also allow water to seep in, causing even more damage. It is time to let that siding go.
You should always pay attention to your siding to be sure when it needs your attention. It is better to take early measures than to salvage the situation when it is too late for saving.
Precision Construction Services is a full service contractor for siding in Columbia, MO.