Did you know that your siding does more than just boost your property’s curb appeal? Similar to your roofing system, this house feature is in charge of protecting your home from various elements and extreme weather events. It also deters dirt, debris, moisture and even pests.
This particular exterior plays a significant role in insulating your space for those unfamiliar with siding and its functions. It is designed to block wind and be your protection against rapid temperature transitions. That said, ensuring it is fully functional over the years is paramount. In today’s post, we’ll help you make this possible by enumerating the different things that can impact its lifespan:
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Environment. Siding installation experts suggest that the kind of environment and climate that you have will undoubtedly affect how quickly your siding could wear. For instance, if you live in an area that typically experiences strong winds or humid weather, you can expect your siding to wear out faster. This means that, like roof replacement in such places, you might have to perform siding replacement more often than usual. Remember that the same siding that works wonders in cold climates might not be ideal for tropical climates.
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Flying debris. Harsh winds can cause all kinds of waste to pose dangers to your siding system. Fortunately, if you have installed a durable material that’s suitable for the type of climate you have, your siding can be able to protect your home from the impact of flying debris.
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Level of maintenance. Keep in mind how much care is being taken for your siding because different materials require various frequencies of upkeep. Professionals remind that wood siding requires regular maintenance, most especially during the rainy season. On the other hand, vinyl siding can be left alone for months before requiring in-depth cleaning.
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Old age. James Hardie® contractors say that there are siding materials that can last up to 50 years. However, a system may only have two decades. This is likely due to weather conditions and various elements that prompt the deterioration of your siding over time.
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Style and finish. Although this is often overlooked, all siding systems are unique because they are not built the same way. As a pro-tip, make sure you’re able to communicate with your potential contractor because they will know better about your needs. A reputable siding installer will even hand you suggestions and recommendations that best cater to your demands.
What Are the Common Reasons Behind Siding Issues?
While being aware of the different elements that affect the longevity of your system, homeowners should be mindful of the possible reasons why it will decline. Besides old age, remember that there could be a bunch of factors that you may consider and here are some of them:
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Pests. These, specifically, are known to damage wood siding and its supporting structures. So, always watch woodpeckers, bugs, and carpenter bees that may poke holes searching for their food. What you can do is put hot water mixed with insecticide running through a spray nozzle at 160 to 180 degrees. It’s also best to use eco-friendly insecticides if you have surrounding plants to avoid damaging them.
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Moisture. Do not forget that moisture in your siding is a dilemma as it’s supposed to insulate your home. Although its damage is usually not visible and hard to notice, warping and buckling may appear effortlessly. This is one of the many reasons homeowners are encouraged to pay attention to any issue with their siding. No matter how little the concern is, neglecting it would lead to severe problems eventually.
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Roofing concerns. It may not seem like it, but this can affect your siding as well. If roofing has worn out, it becomes easier for moisture to penetrate the under layers and find its way into your siding.
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Improper siding installation and maintenance. Should your siding be installed improperly, it can create irritating sounds whenever it contracts or expands as the temperature changes. Furthermore, homeowners are highly encouraged to hire local professionals when it comes to home improvement projects. After all, incorrect siding installation and painting will shorten the lifespan of your siding. Hence, carefully researching contractors and making sure that they’re licensed and insured makes a significant difference.
Extending Your Siding Lifespan
More than anything else, maintaining your home features is still a piece of advice that would make sense. As mentioned, vinyl siding requires minor maintenance because they do not need frequent replacing. They also have a fairly straightforward cleaning process. Wood, on the other hand, Wood will warp over time, requiring regular care to maintain the look and function of your panels. To guide you through the effective upkeep process for your home’s siding system, we have listed down tips you can do:
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Repairing damage/s immediately. Finding and dealing with siding damage as soon as possible is critical to maximizing the system’s lifespan. Keep in mind that fixing something seemingly minor on the siding’s surface promptly prevents any gap or crack from worsening and causing more costly damage. This way, you get to save time and money on replacements.
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Have it cleaned regularly. Dirt is known to cause damage to the material over time, cutting its service life short. If you tidy up your siding consistently, you’re assured to keep your home looking and performing its best for longer.
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Schedule inspections led by pros. Some siding problems can be challenging to detect without proper training, which is why it’s a good idea to have your siding professionally inspected from time to time. This will help you avoid getting caught off-guard by a potentially serious problem that would otherwise be left undetected. They can also provide you with proper measures when addressing the issues.
Peninsula Siding Company is here to make the gorgeous home of your dreams a reality. No matter what your exterior siding choice, our expert James Hardie siding contractor and installers will ensure your home is not only beautiful but well-protected from the elements. We will thoroughly and accurately assess your specific needs. Call us today at (650) 529-6978 for a James Hardie siding color guide or an estimate.