Aside from enhancing your home’s visual appeal, siding is also there to give added protection to your home. It can also make your home more energy-efficient by providing a layer of insulation. So, when there’s something wrong with your home’s siding, it’s important to deal with the issue promptly. But how do you know if it’s time to have your siding replaced?
Rotting in the Siding
The most common sign that your siding needs replacement is rotting. The top layer of the siding is comprised of pressure-treated wood and is protected by a layer of aluminum. Both the wood and the aluminum need to stay protected by a layer of paint. Once the paint starts to fade, the pressure-treated wood starts to oxidize, making it vulnerable to outside elements. If the pressure-treated wood rots, it can eventually lead to the rotting of the aluminum. Once the aluminum starts to rot away, the siding itself is vulnerable to other problems. If it’s left untreated, the rot can spread to your home’s interior walls.
Cracked or Dislodged Siding Planks
Another sign that your home’s siding needs replacement is cracked or dislodged siding planks. When your siding planks start to show signs of cracking, it’s a clue that the planks may be in need of replacement. If the planks are not properly secured, they can also dislodge from the rest of the siding. In both cases, water may get in, compromising the protection that the siding gives your home. Siding that has been compromised can only be restored by replacing it.
Bubbling Topcoat
Topcoat is the paint layer that protects your siding. If it starts bubbling, it’s an indication that it’s not doing its job anymore. The topcoat that’s supposed to protect your siding is the most vulnerable part of your siding’s paint layer. The effects of weather and the sun’s harmful UV rays can make your topcoat vulnerable to bubbling or peeling. Over time, the topcoat’s protective properties will start to diminish. When you notice bubbles or peeling on your siding, it’s time to consider replacing it.
Higher Energy Bills
Depending on your home’s location, it can be difficult to keep your home’s temperature comfortable unless you have the right insulation and materials. If you notice that your energy bills seem to be higher than they usually are, it could be a sign that your home is not as energy efficient as it used to be. If your siding is getting worn, the insulation provided by your siding may be compromised. If this is the case, it’s best to consider replacing your siding to ensure that your home will stay warm when the weather is cold and cool when the weather is hot.
Numerous Repairs
If you have to replace your siding several times, you should consider replacing the siding completely. Whether it’s from weather, sun, animals, or other factors, all kinds of things can damage your siding. With each repair, more damage is done to your home’s siding, so if the damage is extensive, it’s best to consider replacing the siding to save you from making further repairs.
Final Thoughts
Siding protects your home’s exterior from the elements. If it’s deteriorating, it’s important to take action and get it replaced as soon as possible. Before you do, though, make sure to also inspect other problems, such as the roof, gutters, siding, and windows, so that you can identify the cause of all these issues and find the best solutions to keep your home protected from the elements.
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