How Do You Know Your Siding Needs to Be Replaced?

Siding may not be at the top of your list of home improvements, but it should be! It's an incredibly important component to the overall look, energy-efficiency, and integrity of your residence. Afterall, it is one of the first things you, and your neightbors, notice about your home. Well-maintained, first-rate siding dramatically impacts your home's curb appeal and property value. 

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Siding is also your home’s first line of defense against weather and pests. Your siding is like an exterior windbreaker enabling insulation to do its job regulating the temperature and humidity inside. When you are suffering drom decaying siding or siding that peels and rots, it can’t act as a guard against the elements. When your siding is is falling apart, loose, cracked, warped, buckled, or sagging, it can fall prey to nesting rodents and damaging insects. If you begin to notice holes in your siding or any unusual damage to your exterior, it might time to consider replacing it.

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When is it Time to Replace Your Siding

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Chances are you are not an expert on your home’s exterior, but that’s okay! You don’t need to be an expert, because Webfoot is. If it’s not obvious to you that your home needs new siding, then there are several simple factors that can help you decide if it’s time to invest in a little home improvement. We will cover what to look for when it comes to replacing your siding, and when to call in the experts. At Webfoot, we’re here to answer every one of your siding questions.

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What Factors to Consider

Age of Siding

First, ask yourself how old your existing siding is. If your current siding is 25-30 years old, then it’s most likely at the end of its life cycle. Very old siding often needs to be replaced or at the least could use some repairs. A good siding should last between 20 and 40 years with proper care. However, it is also good to note that the type of siding material, environment, and the quality of lifetime care will determine how long your siding will last. 

Peeling, Warped or Rotting Siding

The most obvious signs that your siding is damaged beyond repair. Walk around your home for a thorough visual inspection. Even small cracks could point to larger problem. Poke around. Is the layer beneath solid, or does it give way if you touch it? If there's more rot beneath the cracked or warped portions of your siding, it might be time to call in a professional. The damage that will occur to your siding is unique to your home’s enviroment. Southern and western facing walls are more prone to sun exposure than others and you’ll see elements breakdown on these walls differently. 

Siding Covered in Fungus, Mold or Mildew

Pay special attention to fungus, mold or other kinds of growth that appear on your siding, especially near the seams. These grow wherever moisture is available, this means their presence could indicate that water is penetrating your siding. While not all instances of fungus are cause for alarm, they're certainly worth investigating further.

Higher Energy Bills

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Many factors can impact your energy bill. If you've ruled out any leaks in your attic, drafty windows and faulty insulation, then you should consider the possibility that it's bad siding leading to your usage increase. Since the main purpose of siding is to help your home retain heat and cold, old or damaged siding will not to its job. This breakdown in the insulation of your home will be reflected in your energy bill.

Peeling paint

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Most homes require a fresh coat of paint every 8-10 years. If you find yourself needing to repaint your home much more frequently, the problem may not be the paint, but the siding underneath. Peeling or chipping paint are a strong indication that it's time to replace your siding.

Why Choose Webfoot

If you notice any of these signs, it's time to take action. Webfoot Painting understands that when it comes to siding, you’ve got questions. And why wouldn’t you? Siding plays a huge part in making sure you have a home that not only meets your aesthetic dreams but is also protected for years to come. There’s no need to hire a general contractor to have your siding repaired or replaced. Webfoot's in-house carpenters can handle any exterior project--from smaller repairs to large scale replacement jobs. It's very common that siding or wood trim needs replacement before painting, including replacing LP siding that has deteriorated. We can match nearly any siding type if we're doing partial replacement, or we can advise you on which siding type will be the best value for you and your home going forward.

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