Your Home’s Exterior Siding: When to Replace & How to Maintain

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Replacing your home’s siding probably isn’t the first of your priorities; unless there’s an urgent problem, most people don’t think about it too often. However, replacing worn-out, cracked, or leaking siding is very important in the prevention of more serious (and expensive!) future home repairs. If you haven’t checked your home’s exterior siding in a while, now is a good time!
 
 
Here are 7 warning signs it might be time to replace your siding:
 
 

1. Siding that is peeling, cracking or chipping is a sign that there’s a fundamental problem. Keep in mind that siding should keep its color and shape for at least 10 years. If it looks faded or warped, it might be time to replace.
2. The layer underneath the siding has become soggy or shows signs of rot.
3. Your home’s cooling or heating costs are going through the roof with no other logical explanation.
4. Interior walls that exhibit peeling wallpaper or paint.
5. Growths such as mildew, mold or fungus are visible on the siding, especially at or near the seams.
6. Bubbles under the siding’s surface showing that water is trapped inside.
7. Streaks or stains are visible throughout your siding, which could indicate a leak under the siding that may otherwise go undetected.

If you notice any of these warnings signs, it’s time to get some new siding! Doing so will not only boost your home’s resale value and keep out damaging moisture but also help you save money by maximizing energy efficiency.
 
 

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Because siding plays such an important role in protecting your home from the elements, moisture and pests, it’s important to properly maintain it.
 
 
Here are a few ways to help keep your siding looking and functioning its best:
 
 

1. Pressure wash your siding at least once a year. Spring is a great time to do this since the weather is nice and buildup from fall and winter will need to be removed. You can use regular soap and brush to scrub, and then rinse with a pressure washer. If you don’t have a pressure washer, a sprayer attachment on your garden hose will work just fine. Make sure to spray off starting at the bottom and slowly work your way up in order to prevent any leftover soap residue.
2. Before applying pesticides to plants near your siding, remember to check the pesticide label to make sure it won’t cause discoloration.
3. Be careful not to grill too close to your siding during summer cook-outs. This can cause the siding to melt, become discolored, or worse: catch fire!
4. Avoid leaning heavy objects against siding that may be brittle from the elements.
5. Remember to check with your siding manufacturer before painting siding; sometimes painting or altering siding can affect your warranty. Also, think twice before using a dark-colored paint, as the increase in heat can cause warping over time.
6. Keep all vegetation at least 18” away to avoid damage. See our blog for ways to protect your house from Mother Nature’s tough love.

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By replacing your siding when needed and following these tips to maintain it, your home’s exterior will be in great shape for years to come!
 
 
As always, you can contact Medford Design-Build if you have any questions or need assistance with remodeling or home maintenance!
 
 
Happy Spring,
 
The Medford Design-Build Team