Siding continues to be one of the most popular home exterior materials for good reason—it’s beautiful, durable, and low maintenance. But even the best siding won’t last forever.
Wondering if your home is due for a siding replacement? It’s not a project you want to take on lightly, but it’s also one you don’t want to put off for too long. Here are seven signs that it might be time to start shopping around for new siding.
What Is Siding?
Before we dive into the signs that you might need new siding, let’s quickly review what siding is and what it does. Siding is the protective material that covers the exterior of your home. It’s there to protect your home from the elements and keep out pests.
Siding is available in a wide range of materials, including wood, vinyl, aluminum, and fiber cement. Wood siding is the traditional choice and has a classic look, but it requires more maintenance than other options. Vinyl siding is a popular choice because it’s low maintenance and comes in a wide range of colors.
Aluminum siding is durable and low maintenance, but it’s not as common as it once was. Fiber cement siding is a mix of wood fiber and cement, so it has the look of wood siding with the added durability of cement.
Siding lasts an average of 20 years, but some types of siding may last longer. For example, fiber cement siding can last up to 50 years. The weather in Wisconsin isn’t kind to home siding so it’s best to stay on top of any damage and make repairs or replacements as needed.
Now that you know a little more about siding, let’s take a look at the seven signs that you might need to replace yours.
1. Your Energy Bills Are Through the Roof
If you’ve noticed a sudden spike in your energy bills, chances are it’s because your siding is no longer doing its job of insulating your home. Replacing your old siding with new, energy-efficient siding can help reduce your energy costs and make your home more comfortable year-round.
2. Your Siding Is Cracked, Chipped, or Flaking
If your siding is starting to show signs of wear and tear, it’s time to start thinking about replacement. Not only will new siding improve the curb appeal of your home, but it will also provide an extra layer of protection against the elements.
3. You’re Dealing With Frequent Drafts
Drafty windows and doors are one thing, but if you’re noticing drafts coming from your walls, it’s a sign that your siding is no longer doing its job of keeping the warm air in and the cold air out. Replacing your old siding with new insulated siding can help eliminate those drafts and make your home more comfortable all winter long.
4. Your Home Is Hard to Heat or Cool Evenly
Do you find yourself constantly adjusting the thermostat in an effort to get your home to the perfect temperature? If so, it could be because your current siding isn’t doing a good job of maintaining a consistent temperature inside your home.
Newer types of siding, such as insulated vinyl siding, can help create a more comfortable environment inside your home by trapping heat during the winter and keeping cool air in during the summer.
5. Your Paint Job Is Fading
If you’re starting to notice that your paint is peeling or fading, it’s likely because moisture is seeping in behind your siding. This can cause all sorts of problems down the line, so it’s best to nip it in the bud by replacing your old siding with new water-resistant siding.
6. There’s Evidence of Mold or Rot
If you see any signs of mold or rot on your siding, it’s time to replace it ASAP. Not only is mold unsightly, but it can also be dangerous to your health if left unchecked. By replacing rotted or moldy siding now, you can avoid larger (and more expensive) problems down the road.
7. You Just Plain Don’t Like the Way It Looks Anymore
This one is pretty self-explanatory! If you’re simply not happy with the way your current siding looks, there’s no shame in wanting an upgrade. After all, YOUR home should be a reflection of YOUR style! And what better way to do that than by choosing new siding that you love?
Choosing Professional Siding Replacement Experts
Once you’ve decided that it’s time for new siding, the next step is to choose a reputable contractor to install it. This is an important decision, as improper installation can lead to all sorts of problems down the road.
When choosing a contractor, be sure to get several estimates and check their references. You should also make sure they’re licensed and insured before allowing them to begin work on your home.
Ask the contractor about the type of siding they recommend and why. Be sure to get a detailed estimate that includes the cost of materials and labor. Finally, be sure to ask about any warranties or guarantees that are available.
Install New Siding Right Away
These are just a few signs that siding replacement is imminent. But even if you’re not experiencing any of these problems, it’s still a good idea to have your siding inspected by a professional every few years. This will help ensure that your siding is always in top condition and can help you avoid problems down the road.
If you’re in need of new siding, don’t hesitate to contact Resistance Exteriors. We know how to install siding properly to withstand harsh WI weather. Your satisfaction is our top priority. Get a free estimate today!
