Many homeowners are faced with deterioration of the exterior siding on their homes. There are a few signs that the average homeowner can use to determine whether or not their siding needs to be replaced. Once that determination is made, some choose to tackle the project themselves. Others choose to hire a contractor.
Peeling Paint or Blistering Wallpaper
Many homeowners mistakenly believe that peeling paint or blistering wallpaper is a sign of interior problems. Sometimes this issue is linked to exterior siding that needs to be replaced or primed. Primers are a quick fix solution, but the best long-term option is to fix correctly and prevent. An expert can make the final analysis.
Dry Rot Siding
Most cases of dry rot stem from fungi. Moisture encourages the growth of fungi. Homeowners should take care and seal surfaces that have not become contaminated with fungi. Paint, waterproof sealants, and caulking are all excellent ways to seal out moisture. Keep in mind that sealing a surface that is already contaminated does not mean that the siding will not need to be replaced at some point. As mentioned earlier, upon the initial observation made by the homeowner, it is a good idea to call in an expert.
Siding Shows Buckling, Staining, or Weathering
Water is the common culprit for buckling, staining, and weathering. Moisture may penetrate through the roof or sheathing behind the siding. Wood siding will show signs of rot, splitting wood or cracked paint. Metal siding will buckle, dent, fade or crack. Masonry siding will become chalky, cracked, crumble or stain. Stucco will crack. These are general observations that most homeowners should be able to make. Buckling, staining and weathering are the most obvious signs that siding needs to be replaced. At this point, the homeowner should be ready to decide whether or not to hire a contractor or do the siding project themselves.
Benefits of Replacing Siding
The most obvious reason to replace siding is to preserve or enhance the quality and value of the home. Proper maintenance of the exterior of the home improves the general look of the entire neighborhood. Finally the homeowner can be content that their home is protected against environmental elements.
