Depending on the material and quality of installation, your siding can last for more than 20 years. This is great news as siding can be a significant home improvement investment. However, with so much time in between replacements, homeowners can also take their siding for granted.
When you see damage to your outside siding, your first instinct could be to try to fix it. Is siding repair, however, really what you need? Repairing your siding may appear to be a straightforward and inexpensive option, but it is generally a patchwork effort that will not survive.
But how can you tell if it’s time to replace your home’s siding? Here are five signs to look for on your home:
1. Blisters or Bubbles on Your Siding
If you notice blisters or bubbling forming beneath the surface of your siding, these are warning signs. Water has become trapped within the siding, resulting in bubbles and blisters, indicating a moisture problem. This is a clear sign that your siding is no longer doing its job as siding is supposed to keep moisture out of your home.
2. Dry Rot
Dry rot is a fungus that damages and decays wood, and too much of it might render your siding irreparable. When your siding has a lot of dry rot, it’s advisable to invest in replacement siding to get rid of the problem for good. This stops the rot from spreading and restores the strength of your home’s defenses.
3. Plant, Moss or Mold Growth
Mold and moss are more than just unsightly. If you detect plant growth on your siding, that means your siding is retaining a lot of moisture. This can be a warning sign that more significant structural issues are on the way and might need more than just a repair.
4. Higher Energy Bills
When your energy expenditures exceed the usual, a variety of reasons can come into play. Siding’s main goal is to help your home retain heat and cold while also protecting it from the elements all year. Siding that is old or broken does not insulate well, which is reflected in your energy costs.
5. Holes From Insects or Birds
A tiny insect-caused hole in your siding may be difficult to identify, but you might notice a sequence of carved designs or an army of insects marching in and out of a small entrance. Bird holes are often positioned much higher above the ground, often under eaves.
Roof Masters is a premier source of roofing and siding solutions. We are committed to providing the comfort and efficiency you need through industry-leading products and services. Give us a call at (301) 396-7760. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve customers in Montgomery County, MD, and the surrounding communities.