When Should You Replace Your Home’s Siding?

Siding protects your home from harsh elements, keeping your family comfortable and safe throughout the years. To maintain the integrity of your home, it’s essential to replace damaged siding before harm spreads and causes more expensive structural problems.

If you’re unsure when to replace your siding, watch for these 7 telltale signs:

1. It’s Rotting

If your home has wood siding, look for brittle, powdery panels that have begun to crumble or are on the verge of crumbling. In this case, moisture has penetrated the wood fibers, breaking down the properties that give wood its strength. Ignoring rot will lead to further decay.

2. It’s Warping

View your home’s exterior from multiple angles, and check for siding that is no longer flat compared to adjacent panels. This is a sign that serious damage, including rot, may be present beneath the siding materials.

3. It’s Cracking

Visible cracks on any siding material provide unwanted entry points for moisture and bugs. Inspect the depth and severity of the cracks to determine whether patchwork or siding replacement is necessary.

4. There Are Holes from Insects or Birds

You may have a difficult time spotting a tiny insect-caused hole in your siding, but you might discover a series of carved patterns or an army of insects marching in and out of a small opening. Holes created by birds are typically located much higher from the ground, often under eaves.

5. You’re Energy Bills Are High

If you can’t easily identify damage to your home’s siding, a surge in energy bills should prompt you to keep searching for signs of damage. Chances are air is passing through your home and, unless it’s occurring through exterior window or door frames, your siding is the most likely origin.

6. There’s Moisture Inside Your House

As soon you find traces of moisture, mold, or mildew on the inside of your house, investigate the same area on the exterior and contact a qualified siding technician right away if something looks wrong. You may need to update your home’s insulation as well as the siding.

7. You Hate It

If you just bought a home and dislike the siding, that may be reason enough to upgrade to something you prefer.

When the time comes to replace your home’s siding, call on the home improvement professionals at Sears Home Services for a free consultation.