Siding is an essential layer that protects your home against the elements. And since it takes up a significant portion of your home’s exterior, it can impact curb appeal as well. Generally, siding should be replaced as soon as you confirm that signs of deterioration are present. In some cases, siding replacement can still wait if you prefer to have it done at an ideal time — for instance, during the warm season. But if the damage is quite extensive, it might be best to schedule siding replacement as soon as possible.
If you’re still not convinced that siding replacement is a good move, you should consult siding professionals and have them evaluate your siding. Furthermore, you might want to take the following considerations into account when making your decision. Below are the top reasons for replacing your siding:
To Improve Insulation
New siding usually means better insulation for your home. So if your home has been standing for several years or decades, you will definitely benefit from a siding upgrade. It’s common for modern siding materials to have insulation included in their design. But if the material you’ve chosen does not contain insulation, you can ask your contractor to add in a layer of insulation prior to siding installation.
With better insulation, you can reduce the transfer of heat and cold from your interior to the outside. This is important to take note of because a lower rate of heat transfer means your heating and cooling system can work efficiently too. Since your HVAC won’t have to compensate for any significant heat loss, it won’t need to use more power to reach or maintain your desired indoor temperature. Ultimately, your new siding can help you save on your energy bills throughout the year. Of course, other factors — such as your roof, windows, etc. — would also have to be considered. But assuming that everything else in your home is in good condition, siding replacement can contribute to your energy savings.
When shopping for insulated siding panels or separate insulation materials, don’t forget to check for their R-value. The R-value will give you an idea about a material’s effectiveness in blocking heat transfer from one side to the other. Generally, you should look for siding and insulation materials with higher R-value, which means they are more effective in reflecting heat in the summer and retaining warmth in the winter.
To Reduce Your Home Maintenance and Repair Costs
If the home you bought came with siding that’s difficult to maintain (such as wood), replacing it would give you the opportunity to opt for a material that requires little upkeep. High-maintenance siding tends to be more prone to damage simply because it can be hard to keep up with maintenance requirements. Aside from that, the expenses of maintaining such materials can also be expensive in the long run.
By switching to low-maintenance siding, it will be easier for you to commit to its upkeep. Thus, you can maintain the beauty of your home’s exterior for a long time. Remember that your siding contributes to the appeal of your home. And if you want to make a good impression (especially if you plan on selling your home), you should be able to do siding maintenance on a regular basis.
Furthermore, keep in mind that your siding acts as a protective barrier for your home. If you are unable to maintain it regularly, it would likely become susceptible to water damage. Moisture is a terrible enemy for your siding, and it can cause damage to plasterboard, timber and electrical wirings. Furthermore, during storm season, old or damaged siding with cracks and gaps could cause the wind to peel siding panels away from your home. These panels can become projectiles that could wreak havoc to surrounding structures. So make sure your siding is well-maintained and its upkeep is easy for you to do regularly.
To Add Value to Your Home
Siding replacement is usually expected to have a high return on investment (ROI). That’s why many homeowners decide to replace their siding, especially if they have plans of selling their home in a few year’s time. But before you get persuaded by the promise of a high ROI, make sure that all other parts of your home are in good condition as well. Keep in mind that any problems in other areas can affect the resale value of your home, so you should pay attention to other crucial components too.
To Boost Curb Appeal
New siding can help make your home stand out as it enhances curb appeal — which is important if you’re looking to sell your home in the near future. Although some people can look past an outdated and aging exterior, many others would simply think that the property needs a lot of work. They might also assume that the interior is in the same poor condition, so they might not even bother entering your home to view it. Basically, if you want to be able to cast a wider net, your home’s exterior should be as enticing as it could be.
Fortunately, siding materials come in a wide range of styles and colors, allowing you to choose a design that best suits your home. Whether you prefer a classic look or you’re aiming for a modern, unique appeal, you can certainly have an exterior that matches your taste.
Get a Free Siding Quote Today!
Peninsula Siding Company, Inc. has been in business since 1989 as a full-service custom design, build and remodeling company. With our experience in the industry, you can rest assured that your project will be handled professionally and carried out to a high standard. We use only the best materials for our client’s projects, such as James Hardie siding products, so you can be confident your siding will stand the test of time. If you need seasoned workers for your siding project, please reach out to our team. You can call us at (650) 287-4208 or fill out our contact form to request a free estimate.