Your siding shields your home and family from harsh weather and outdoor elements. It keeps you comfortable and adds to the overall appeal of your home. Unfortunately, it can sustain damage in a severe storm or an accident. At first glance, it can be tricky to determine whether you should repair or replace your damaged siding, so here are tips from experts to guide you through this dilemma.
When to Repair Your Siding
Repair should always be your first option, especially if your siding installation was relatively recent or your siding has no other issues. Most siding options today can be repaired without removing the undamaged sections. If these are the issues with your siding, you can choose to repair them:
- Cracks – Cracked siding will allow moisture to penetrate your walls. Your siding contractor can replace only the affected panels if the damage is isolated to a particular section.
- Mold and Mildew – It’s possible to remove mold and mildew using household items you already have. However, these solutions often fail to address the underlying causes. They may also not thoroughly clean away all traces of mold and mildew. That’s why it’s always best to have professionals repair damaged siding.
When to Replace Your Siding
In some cases, it is more cost-effective to replace your siding than try to repair it. Contractors will recommend this solution if they notice signs of deterioration due to aging. Moreover, if the damage is extensive, it is often more practical to have the siding replaced.
Typically, experts recommend siding replacement to address these problems:
- Surface Bubbles – Surface bubbles are caused by trapped moisture, indicating that the siding panels need to be replaced soon. Consider this an opportunity to upgrade with a material that does not absorb water, such as vinyl.
- Dry Rot – Dry rot is caused by fungi that digest wood fibers. It is characterized by pieces of wood falling off. In most cases, rotted siding should be replaced as soon as possible.
Are you planning to upgrade to James Hardie siding? Choose Peninsula Siding Company, Inc. for your project! We are a full-service siding company that takes pride in our work and ensures customers’ overall satisfaction. To request a quote, call us at (650) 287-4208 or fill out this contact form.