Because your home’s siding is always on guard, it can develop issues over time. So, identifying common problems early can help prevent them from becoming costly siding repairs. In fact, a little knowledge goes a long way in maintaining your home’s health and appearance. In this article, we’ll shed light on common siding problems and why you should address them sooner.
What Really Causes Siding Damage?
Siding doesn’t fail on its own. Specific factors cause it to break down, putting your home at risk from weather and pests. From tiny bugs to harsh weather, the threats are real and can affect your home’s structural integrity.
Knowing the root cause makes it easier to prevent issues. It also helps you find the right siding solutions when a problem does pop up. Let’s look at the main culprits behind the damage caused to home exteriors.
The Most Common Siding Problems Homeowners Face
Some siding issues are easy to spot, such as a large crack or a hole. Others are much harder to see, hiding until they become a major headache. Here are the things you should keep an eye out for to protect your home.
Pests Causing Havoc
Real wood siding looks beautiful, but it’s also a buffet for pests such as termites and carpenter ants. Termites can tunnel through it, creating hidden pathways of destruction. You also have to worry about woodpeckers and carpenter bees drilling holes into cedar siding.
Even if you don’t have real wood, pests can still be a common issue. They can get behind other siding materials and damage the wooden structure underneath.
Moisture: Siding’s Hidden Enemy
Your siding’s main job is to keep water out. When it’s damaged, moisture gets in and starts to cause chaos, a problem that can happen with any type of siding. This moisture damage, if left unaddressed, can lead to serious problems.
Look for signs such as warping, buckling, or soft spots, as these often mean water has been sitting where it shouldn’t. This can lead to rot and mold, which are serious issues for your home’s frame. If moisture left behind the siding isn’t managed, it can compromise the whole structure.
Forgetting About Maintenance
Most siding is sold as low-maintenance, which is great. But this doesn’t mean no maintenance at all. Neglecting proper maintenance lets small problems grow into big, expensive ones, potentially leading to a complete replacement.
You should inspect your siding at least once a year and after big storms. Look for cracked sealant, small cracks, or exposed nail heads. If you spot anything odd, calling a professional siding contractor is a smart move.
The Nightmare of a Bad Installation
Your home’s siding is only as good as the person who installs it. Some contractors just don’t have the right experience for installing siding correctly. A bad siding installation job can drastically shorten its life expectancy.
Make sure the siding is properly installed by doing your homework before hiring someone. Poorly installed siding isn’t going to protect your home.
When Your Roof Causes Siding Issues
It might seem strange, but roof issues directly affect your siding. If your roof is failing, water can get behind the walls. That water often travels down and saturates the structure behind your siding.
You might not see the damage right away. But over time, this moisture can rot your home’s framing. A regular roof inspection can help prevent this specific type of water damage.
Damage From Severe Weather
Storms can be brutal on siding. Hail can leave dents and cracks, and it doesn’t have to be large to do harm. High winds can also blow debris into your house, causing damage.
Winter weather is another enemy that siding is susceptible to. Ice can get into tiny cracks, melt, and then refreeze. This freeze-thaw cycle can split siding panels apart over time.
Fading and Discoloration From the Sun
Modern siding does a good job of resisting sun damage, but it’s not immune. The powerful ultraviolet light will eventually cause your siding’s color to fade. This is a common problem for any exterior material exposed to the sun for years.
This fading can look uneven, especially on the side of your house that gets the most sun. While it’s mostly a cosmetic issue, it can make your home look old and tired. It can also indicate that the siding’s protective coating is wearing thin.
Unwanted Noises From Your Siding
Your siding shouldn’t be making noises. If you hear creaking, flapping, or popping sounds, something is wrong. Siding making noises is usually caused by an improper installation.
Siding needs room to expand and contract as the temperature fluctuates. If it’s nailed on too tightly, it will make these noises as it moves. If it’s too loose, it can rattle in the wind, causing noise that indicates a problem.
Problems Based on Your Siding Type
Not all siding materials are the same. The type of siding on your home will have its own set of potential problems.
Vinyl Siding Issues
Vinyl is a popular choice for siding because it’s affordable and easy to maintain. However, common vinyl siding problems can arise. It’s especially prone to warping and buckling in the heat if not installed correctly.
The material, known as polyvinyl chloride, can also get brittle and crack in very cold weather. Excessive noise is another frequent complaint. A good installation is critical to helping vinyl siding perform as it should and extend its life expectancy.
Cedar Siding Headaches
Nothing beats the look of real wood siding, and cedar is a classic choice. But as a natural material, it’s wood siding that needs more care than manufactured options. It’s very vulnerable to moisture, rot, and pests if it’s left untreated.
Woodpeckers find cedar especially attractive. You’ll need to keep it sealed or stained to protect it from the elements. This proper maintenance helps it last for decades and maintain its natural beauty.
James Hardie Fiber Cement Concerns
Fiber cement, particularly James Hardie siding, is known for being extremely durable. The heavy cement siding is resistant to fire, insects, and rot. However, fiber cement has its own challenges during a siding replacement or new build.
This Hardie siding is heavy and can be brittle, making installation a job for a professional contractor. If not handled carefully during installation, it can chip or break. It’s also important to have proper wall insulation, as siding fiber cement isn’t very energy efficient on its own and can affect utility bills.
Our Conclusion
Your siding is a vital part of your home’s defense system. Paying attention to it and catching issues early can save you from costly repairs later. Being aware of these common siding problems is the first step toward effective homeownership.
Whether it’s damage from weather, pests, or just old age, every problem has a solution. A yearly walk around your house can help you spot trouble. If you find something that doesn’t look right, it’s best to get professional help from an experienced roofing and siding contractor before a small issue requires a complete siding replacement.
