Like most parts of your home’s exterior, it’s difficult to determine at first glance whether siding needs to be repaired or replaced. So, how can you tell?
Siding Repairs
Repairs should be your first resort, especially if your siding is still within its warranty period or expected lifespan. Most of today’s siding options can be repaired without having to tear out unaffected parts. The following are some of the signs that indicate your siding needs repairs:
Mold and Mildew
It’s easy to find tips on how to remove mold and mildew from siding using household products. However, these solutions often fail to address its causes or don’t thoroughly clean all traces of mold and mildew. In most cases, the best scenario is to have professionals repair the siding.
Chipping and Cracking
Chipped and cracked siding, if left unrepaired, could allow moisture to infiltrate the exterior walls. As described above, individual panels can be replaced by your local siding contractor without affecting other areas.
Loose Panels
Panels can be knocked loose by high winds or impact damage, but may also be caused by improper installation. If it’s caused by the latter, check your warranty paperwork if it’s covered by the workmanship warranty.
Siding Replacement
Replacement becomes the best option if the siding is in such a condition where repairs won’t be a practical choice. The following are indicators that your siding will soon need to be replaced:
It Needs Frequent Maintenance
If your siding seems to need cleaning and repainting much too often, it means it’s approaching the end of its service life and may require replacement soon.
Bubbles on the Siding Surface
Bubbles on the siding surface are caused by trapped moisture, which means the siding panels will need to be replaced. You should consider this as an opportunity to switch to siding that doesn’t absorb moisture, such as vinyl.
Dry Rot
Dry rot is caused by a certain type of fungi that digests wood fibers and is characterized by parts of the wood pieces falling off from the siding. In most cases, siding affected by dry rot should be replaced as soon as possible.
Bradford Xteriors is your leading provider of roofing and siding installation services. Give us a call at (614) 483-6215. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve customers in Upper Arlington, Columbus and Dublin, OH.