Old, worn-down, and damaged siding is costing you money.
Not only does damaged siding affect your home’s curb appeal, it can also compromise the safety and integrity of your home. Visible defects are unpleasant to look at, but they can also be the root cause of bigger, less visible problems.
So how do you know when it’s time to install new siding? Check to see if your home’s siding displays any of these warning signs:
- Discoloration
- Water Stains
- Surface Cracks
- Bubbling Paint
- Rotting or Peeling
- Chips and Cracking
- Mold or Mildew Growth
- Holes
- Sagging or Loose Paneling
- Fading
- Warping or Buckling
Even if your home isn’t displaying major signs of siding damage, a good rule of thumb is to replace your siding every 10 to 20 years. Upkeep, climate, and weather conditions all contribute to the longevity of your vinyl siding, and any major damages or warning signs should be taken care of as soon as possible. As upgrades to vinyl siding are continuously being made by manufacturers, you may find that you get more out of your siding than 20 years, but be sure to still occasionally monitor the outside of your home.
Now that you know the warning signs to look for, let’s take a look at how replacing your siding can save you money.
Energy Efficient
If you notice your heating or cooling bill getting more and more expensive, it’s time to take a look at replacing the siding. Siding acts as exterior insulation, and as it ages and wears down, the outside climate and temperatures seep in. Updated siding does a better job at keeping the warmth inside during colder months, and the cold inside during hot months.
This is also a chance to add even more insulation to your exterior walls. Before the contractor installs the new vinyl siding, check to see if any holes or cavities in the exterior walls need be filled with additional insulation, such as blown-in or injection foam insulation. Adding this extra step allows the new siding to work more efficiently and further protect your home from the outside elements.
Requires Less Maintenance
Vinyl siding is cost-effective and requires less maintenance throughout the year. You won’t have to worry about frequent scraping or painting to keep up its appearance. A good cleaning (either by power washing or by hand) with soap and water is really all you need for the upkeep. Just make sure to take the time to wash off any accumulated dirt, dust, and grime at least once per year.
No frequent painting or scraping = more money in your pocket.
Higher Resale Value
It’s no secret that curb appeal plays a factor in your home’s resale value. In fact, vinyl siding replacement is one of the top home improvement projects that offers a higher return on investment. Not to mention, vinyl siding is versatile and can be made to look like any other siding to contribute to the overall appeal of the home.
Vinyl siding also offers new buyers the satisfaction of a product that maintains both its color and appearance. Some siding warranties can even be transferred to new homeowners to provide coverage in the event that something should happen.
Repair Structural Damage
Replacing your home’s siding allows contractors to also take a look at your home’s exterior walls and repair any structural damage that has occurred. For example, rain can leak behind siding and cause cracks in the home’s drywall and foundation. It can also cause significant wood rot. This damage may not be visible while the old siding is still in place. A thorough inspection of the exterior allows contractors to identify and repair any structural damage before the new siding is installed.
New residential siding provides required protection against both weather and structural damage.
Durability in Rough Weather
Vinyl siding is created to withstand harsh weather conditions. It repels water and moisture, making it less susceptible to mold, rot, and corrosion. It also protects your home against harsh winds and hail damage. Vinyl siding is made with increased durability to provide as much protection to the exterior of your home as possible.
Vinyl siding is one of the most affordable options on the market. However, it may not always be the best option for your home, depending on history and style. We offer engineered wood siding, cement board siding, and natural stone to match a variety of home designs and styles. We’ll also help you throughout the entire process of choosing the right colors, textures, and shapes for your home.
Interested in replacing your residential siding, or have more questions? Give us a call at (217) 223-3791!