Siding Repair or Replacement: How to Tell Which You Need

Your home’s siding is essential to its curb appeal. If your siding is in poor condition or in need of repairs, it can significantly detract from the overall look of your home. On the other hand, keeping up with your siding can help you save money over time while it adds to your home’s value.

In this post from the exterior remodeling pros at Budget Exteriors, we’re breaking down some signs your siding needs to be repaired or replaced. Give us a call to schedule your siding maintenance services today!

7 Common Siding Problems

It goes without saying that siding in poor shape detracts from the look of a home. But ugly siding is not just unattractive. It also represents a liability for homeowners, putting your entire home and family at risk. Damaged siding is a point of vulnerability to air and moisture infiltration.

These are some of the most common siding problems for Minnesota homeowners.

1. UV Fading

You’re probably all too familiar already with the damage such rays can cause to a huge number of things – your car’s paint, dashboard, upholstery, and your home’s windows, sealants, exterior paint, and the list goes on.

2. Cracks

Again, the sun can damage some siding, making the cracks appear within time. Not to mention, other weather elements can attack the siding, such as violent storm winds and hail.

3. Warping or Swelling

Humidity tends to warp wood and certain types of engineered wood over time. Another alarm is when you see warped siding or gaps between planks, which could be a foundation issue.

Improper siding installation still remains the number one cause of rippling, bubbling, and warping, especially in vinyl siding.

4. Peeling

We keep mentioning how the weather is one of the top two culprits when it comes to damaged and peeling siding. Years of fluctuating weather temperatures, hail, and sunlight can cause the siding to dent or peel.

5. Termites & Other Pests

Unwanted guests, such as insects and rodents, can also cause damage to your vinyl siding, causing warping and loose panels. Once they find a way under the siding, they build nests and multiply, often eating away at the underlying structure.

6. Mold

You may not be able to notice mold until major damage has been done. Wood siding can rot without much cosmetic change but at some times might produce a weird smell.

Hire a professional siding contractor to properly remove rotting or moldy siding and replace it with a better-quality option.

7. Age

Sure, properly installed siding can last years, but it won’t last forever. If your siding hasn’t been updated in more than 10 years, contact a professional who can advise whether you should repair any damaged areas or replace the siding completely.

When Siding Needs to Be Replaced

If your siding appears to be in poor shape and you’re worried about insulation, energy costs, and moisture infiltration, you’re better off investing in new siding before you look at replacing other exterior materials, such as windows. Check out our blog about when you should replace your windows.

At Budget Exteriors, we not only install quality siding but also carry and install a wide array of high-quality, energy-efficient windows. Again, if damage to your siding is significant, replacement is the best option.

Look for these signs that your siding should be replaced, and if it’s time, consider replacing your aging wood siding with a more durable material like vinyl.

Wall Damage Inside Your Home

If your interior walls have moisture damage, this could be due to serious siding issues and may even indicate underlying structural problems.

Obvious Moisture Damage

Wood siding, in particular, is prone to moisture damage, including mold, rot, swelling, and warping.

Gaps Between Panels

The siding on your home is meant to be a tight seal against the elements in order to protect your home. If you see gaps between panels of your siding, water could be getting inside your home, creating a more expensive problem. This should warrant replacement.

Outdated Siding

If you’re thinking of listing your home in the next few years or you’d like to increase your curb appeal, consider siding replacement.

Widespread Problems

Significant widespread siding damage, including cracking, peeling, and insect damage, indicates your siding is due for replacement.

What to Know About Siding Repair

If your siding problems are minor, you may be able to get by with simple siding repairs. Staying on top of these minor issues can help to prevent serious issues down the road.

Be sure to schedule regular siding maintenance as part of your ongoing home maintenance!

Contact Local Twin Cities Siding Contractors

Is your siding outdated or in need of repair? Contact our exterior siding contractors at Budget Exteriors at 952-887-1613, or connect with us online to get your siding repair quote today. You’ll love what our high-performance siding can do for your home’s comfort and for your return on investment!

If you’re wondering about other ways to save energy costs, be sure to ask us about our innovative door and window wraps. Give us a call today!