While storms slam your home and the sun beats down, your siding is what keeps you safe, dry, and comfortable. But for every home with siding, the time inevitably comes when it wears out and needs to be replaced.
A lot of people don’t think much about it, assuming it’s no big deal, but letting problems slide only leads to bigger issues and bigger bills. So how do you tell when your siding needs to go? Here are some signs to watch out for.
Visible Damage
Walk around your house and take a good look at your siding. See if there are any obvious cracks, splits, sagging, or holes. Even if they’re minor, these damages can let moisture in, which causes rot, mold, and potentially serious structural issues. If damage keeps showing up all over or repeatedly happens despite repairs, it’s probably time to think about replacing the siding altogether.
Fading, Warping, or Peeling
If your siding looks faded or washed out, that usually means the protective layer is wearing off. This leaves your siding open to damage. If you notice any warping or buckling, that’s a pretty clear sign moisture or heat is affecting its integrity. And if paint or vinyl keeps peeling no matter how many times you fix it, a full replacement might be easier and more cost-effective long-term.
Higher Energy Bills
Siding is a big part of your home’s insulation, so it can have a noticeable impact on your energy bills. If your heating or cooling costs start going up without any other obvious reason, your siding could be the culprit. Old or damaged panels can let air leak in or out, wasting a ton of money. Upgrading to new siding with better insulation can make your home more comfortable and help you save on energy.
Damp Walls and Musty Smells
Seeing damp spots on your walls or smelling a musty odor can be signs that water is getting past the siding and into your walls. Moisture leads to all kinds of problems, including mold and wood rot, and it’s not something to ignore. If this sounds familiar, replacing your siding is likely overdue.
Past Its Lifespan
Even if your siding looks okay on the surface, its age is a big factor. Different materials have different lifespans—vinyl might last 20-40 years, wood around 20-40, and fiber cement can go even longer. If your siding is older than what’s typical for its type, start thinking about a replacement before issues pop up.
Planning Your Replacement
If your siding checks any of these boxes, go ahead and call a siding contractor. You might even want to think about switching to a different material if you’re looking to improve energy efficiency, boost curb appeal, or add extra protection for your home. Keep in mind that the least expensive siding upfront can end up costing more later if it doesn’t last or requires frequent maintenance.
One last thing to note about replacements is that you’ll have to deal with the old siding and debris. If you’re DIYing it or your contractor doesn’t handle cleanup, consider renting a dumpster. Services like Temporary Dumpster can take care of hauling away the waste, so you can focus on getting the job done without the extra stress.
Conclusion
When siding starts showing its age or damage, it’s best not to wait. Taking action sooner helps avoid bigger problems and keeps your home looking and feeling its best for years to come.