How to Identify Signs of Siding Damage—Before It’s Too Late
Along with the roof, your home’s siding is its first line of defense against the elements. So how can you tell when it is time to replace your siding? Read on to find out!
How to Identify Signs of Siding Damage—Before It’s Too Late
Along with the roof, your home’s siding is its first line of defense against the elements. This protective layer keeps the outer sheath of your house safe from harsh weather, pests, and everyday wear and tear.
Unfortunately, nothing lasts forever, and even the toughest siding will eventually wear down. This isn’t necessarily a problem unless the homeowner ignores initial signs of damage… often leading to expensive repairs needed due to water damage, mold, and even structural decay.
The good news is these problems can be avoided. You just need to keep an eye out for common signs of siding disrepair and take care of them early. When you do, you save yourself loads of time, money, and needless headaches.
With that goal in mind, here’s how to identify signs of siding damage—and when it’s time to call a trusted contractor experienced in siding repair or siding replacement services.
1. Visible Cracks or Holes
Take a walk around your house and inspect your siding up close. Cracks, chips, and holes allow moisture to seep in under the siding and can eventually lead to rot and mold growth.
If you see any of these signs, it’s important to remember they will not get better on their own. Therefore, it’s best to call a siding repair contractor to assess the damage and recommend the best course of action. Doing so isn’t just good for your home—it’s good for you and your wallet, too.
2. Loose or Missing Panels
Following heavy winds and storms, siding panels sometimes get knocked loose or pulled off entirely. One of the more obvious signs of disrepair, these missing panels don’t just make your home look incomplete—they leave it exposed to water and pests.
So if you notice gaps between panels—or panels missing entirely—call a siding repair contractor immediately. They’ll secure or replace the panels you need and make sure your home is fully protected in no time.
3. Warped Panels or Bubbling
If your siding looks like it’s bubbling or pulling away from the house, you may already have water damage. That’s because when moisture gets trapped behind the siding, it can warp the underlying material, causing it to bulge. This is especially common with wood and vinyl panels.
If you notice any warping or bubbling along your siding, know that it’s a serious red flag that almost definitely points to water infiltrating your home. So don’t wait—call a siding repair specialist to address the issue before it worsens… because water damage only ever gets more expensive.
4. Faded or Peeling Paint
Fading or peeling paint on siding panels may seem like a minor problem, but it can also signal that the siding’s protective layer is failing. When that happens, your home becomes more vulnerable to moisture and sun damage.
If repainting your siding doesn’t resolve the issue, it may be time for a full replacement. The upgrade can be well worth it, as modern siding products are made with durable materials and colors that both resist fading and require little to no maintenance. And that’s a win for you, your bottom line, and peace of mind as a homeowner.
5. Increasing Energy Bills
If you’ve noticed a recent spike in heating and cooling bills, damaged siding may be the culprit.
When siding cracks or loosens, drafts sneak in and force your HVAC system to work harder than it would otherwise need to. Not only does this increase your bills, it also needlessly stresses your HVAC system, shortening the life of your unit.
Instead, treat your heating and cooling systems right, with properly installed siding that insulates your home, makes it more energy-efficient, lowers utility bills, and keeps unwanted repairs at bay.
6. Mold, Mildew, or Rot
If you’re seeing mold, mildew, black streaks, or rot near your siding, beware. This usually signals that water is getting behind the siding and creating a breeding ground for unhealthy bacteria.
If allowed to spread—as it almost certainly will—mold and mildew can harm not just your home, but also your family’s health. If you catch it early, siding repair may be enough, but if the damage is extensive, full siding replacement might be the smarter choice.
7. Water Stains Inside Your Home
When siding fails, moisture can seep into your home’s external structure and cause leaks. So if you’ve noticed water stains in the house but are having trouble finding the source, it may be worth having a professional inspect the current condition of your siding—before that damage spreads and causes even greater issues down the line.
When Is it Time to Call In the Pros?
The important thing to remember is siding issues won’t fix themselves. If you’re noticing any of the problems above, they will only get worse… so don’t sleep on potential trouble spots.
While some minor siding issues can be tackled with a little DIY elbow grease, many require the expertise of a contractor experienced in siding repair and replacement. If you’re noticing any of the following, it’s best to call in the pros…
- Damage covers a large area of the siding
- You’re unsure of the extent of the problem
- You’ve noticed water or pest damage inside or outside of your home
- You’re ready to upgrade your home’s look with a full siding replacement
Aside from getting a home that looks fully updated and amazing, addressing siding issues early can prevent costly damages and skyrocketing energy bills. So don’t wait—reach out to E&E today for a free call and consultation. Because our siding crew is ready to help you get a home you’re proud of…
One that’s protected, energy efficient, and designed with a unique look that sets your property apart.
