Although it can enhance curb appeal, home siding isn’t there to make your home look pretty. Wood siding protects the inside of your house from damp, rain, humidity, insects, and much more. Without preventative maintenance, wood siding can deteriorate to the point where it must be replaced. The following signs are a clear indication that your wood siding needs to be replaced to protect your home.

Warped Siding

Warped wood siding can look wavy or bubbly. In some cases, the siding may appear to come loose from the side of the home. If this has started happening, your wood siding is no longer able to protect your home from the elements and should be replaced before your home sustains damage.

Cracked and Peeling Siding

As siding becomes cracked and peeled, you may notice chips, holes, or scratches. Not only is this ugly, it can indicate that moisture has penetrated the siding. Unless you take action, you could end up with water damage and mold problems in your home. If you see a chalky residue on your home siding, you already have problems with wood rot, mold, or moisture.

Depending on the level of severity, your wood siding may be able to be repaired. A siding installation company can inspect your siding and advise you on whether to repair or replace.

Mold and Fungus

If you see mold and fungus on siding, odds are high that mold and fungus are also present behind the siding. Even if you are able to clean mold or fungus from the exterior siding, you cannot get at the mold and fungus inside. Only siding replacement can solve the problem.

Mold and fungus typically indicate moisture problems. Not only is mold remediation expensive, the mold is hazardous to your health. Have things checked out by a qualified professional if you see mold or fungus on your siding.

Peeling Paint and Wallpaper

Peeling paint or wallpaper in the home indicates that you have faulty siding and a water damage problem. It’s vital to have the siding and home interior evaluated, so you can make all necessary repairs. If not treated, damaged wood will rot.

If you have one or more of these indicators, new siding is most likely imminent. Take the time to get a few siding quotes so you can plan and budget for the siding installation.

If you are already replacing your siding, you might want to consider switching to a different type of wood siding. Cedar siding is a long-lasting and beautiful natural home siding option. Cedar siding is naturally insect and water resistant, which makes it a good low maintenance choice for homeowners.

To learn more about siding installation, or talk about anything else, please contact us.