Siding is the first element anyone notices about a home. This may not seem the case as most neighbors comment on the beautiful door color, entrancing window fashions, or alluring landscaping, not the siding. However, siding is the canvas that makes everything else stand out. A house with poor siding is much more noticeable than a house with a missing window shutter or whose flower bed has not been weeded recently.
As siding is a major element to the character and appearance of a house, it is important to replace it when necessary.
Unfortunately, siding does not last forever, which can be extremely detrimental to the appearance and integrity of a home. Besides the appearance of siding and maintaining the character of a home, siding also serves a functional purpose.
The purpose of siding is to protect the inside of a home from weather, damage, and moisture. Damaged or worn siding should be replaced to ensure the beautiful, alluring quality of the house as well as the home’s structural integrity is maintained.
So, what are some signs that your home may require upgraded siding?
While there are some obvious indicators that your siding is due for an upgrade such as cracks and chips, warping, and mold, there are some subtle indicators as well. One of the more noticeable but subtle indicators most homeowners would not think of is higher electricity and energy bills. We will discuss each of these signs in more detail below.
Dents and Cracks
Siding is not indestructible. Over time, siding cracks, splinters, and obtains dents due to constantly being subjected to weather and animals. Excessive heat will expand siding while cold will contract it. Rain, snow, and hail pound on it. Critters such as birds, insects, and more crawl over siding and subject it to wear. Over the years, this constant treatment wears on siding, causing it can dent or crack. These dents and cracks then allow moisture and insects to creep past into the structural frame of the home, jeopardizing its integrity. If you notice excessive dents or cracks, contact a professional to determine if it is time to update your siding to ensure the safety of your home.
Bubbling, Blistering, and Warping
If there are cracks or chips in your siding, it possible that it will begin to bubble, blister, or warp. While cracks are an excellent indicator that siding will begin to bubble or warp, it can also do this without cracks or chips. Siding that is bubbling or warping typically means that moisture has seeped past the exterior and is threatening the integrity of the structure. At this point, it is extremely important to begin looking into replacing your siding.
Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew is caused by an excessive amount of moisture in areas where moisture should be controlled, so if you see mold or mildew on your siding, it is important to take note. This mold may just be building on the outside of the siding due to extra moisture-rich weather, and a thorough cleaning may cure the issue.
However, any mold is cause for further investigation. If you discover mold has made it past the surface level of siding and is penetrating the inside, this means the wooden structure of your home could be in trouble, and it is time to look at siding replacement.
High Energy Bill
While most indications that siding should be replaced occur on the outside of a house, you can notice it from the inside. A major signal is a higher energy bill. A higher energy bill means that your home is either expensing a greater amount of energy through your normal day-to-day activities or expensing energy quicker. This can stem from faulty insulation, non-secured windows, damaged roofing, or other factors.
When all other possible factors have been investigated and ruled out, the last culprit standing is the siding. Worn out or damaged siding allows heat and cold to pass through the exterior walls unincumbered, resulting in higher energy bills. If you believe your siding to be responsible for your home losing energy, it may be time to upgrade.
Siding Installation and Home Improvement services
The two primary functions of siding is to maintain the aesthetic of your home and protect the integrity of your home. Damaged or worn-out siding will compromise either or both of these core responsibilities.
While structural damage is slightly more concerning than a poor appearance, both are important to your safety and peace of mind. If you suspect that your siding may be compromised, investigate the area and explore siding replacement if necessary.
Create a lasting impression to your home’s exterior and save on energy costs with new siding from Excel Home Improvement Services in Romulus. We have more than 60 years of experience in siding installation and repairs. Our installers are at the top-tier of their trade backed by knowledge, skill, and experience to complete a quality siding installation, on-time and on-budget.
We stay up to date on the latest technology and training to ensure you maximize your investment into your home. Our exterior home improvement services include siding, roof installation, gutters, trim and more. Please contact us if you have any questions about our home improvement services. We are looking forward to hearing from you and providing a Free Estimate!