Your siding is one of the most critical components of your home’s exterior. It enhances your property’s aesthetics and protects your home from weather elements and pests. However, with time, it may start to fail, leading to various problems.
Depending on the type of siding you have, damage will show up in different ways. Unfortunately, some types of visible damage are clear indications of water infiltration, in which case, you will need to seek the advice of a siding professional.
Here are the common red flags to watch out for.
Recognizing the Common Signs of Siding Damage
Is your property over 20 years old? Have you been diligent about keeping up with the recommended maintenance? Whether you have wood, vinyl siding, or something else, you need to be on the lookout for damage and wear.
- Cracked caulking
- Noticeable gaps
- Dents
- Mould and fungus growth
- Rotten, spongy areas
- Warping
- Blistering
- Faded, peeling paint
- Nails sticking out, missing nails
- Rust marks
- Signs of insect or rodent infestation
Sometimes, the damage is the fault of poor installation. If your home or business has recently encountered severe weather conditions (hail, strong winds), a quick inspection of your siding is highly recommended.
The Severity of the Damage
Not every noticeable flaw demands a complete replacement, but it never hurts to get a second opinion.
Assessing the severity of siding damage is crucial in determining the appropriate repair approach and your next steps.
- Small cracks or holes can be easily fixed with caulk or filler.
- Extensive damage like rot or large holes may require replacing the entire section.
- Severe dents or warping might necessitate complete replacement.
- Extensive mould or mildew growth calls for immediate attention.
Have you noticed an increase in your energy bills? Once your building envelope is compromised, you can also expect unwanted changes inside your home as well, be it temperature fluctuations or damage to your walls and floors.
That’s why it’s so important to stay vigilant and address any unusual signs immediately.
When Is it Time to Call a Professional?
Even if you’re comfortable handling the repair yourself, a quick fix may only cover up a bigger problem that isn’t about to disappear.
If your siding damage is extensive and beyond your skills, or you’re unsure about the full extent of the needed repair, it’s time to seek professional help.
Professionals have the tools and expertise to handle siding inspections and repairs effectively.
What to Expect from a Professional Siding Repair Service?
You could call in a general contractor for their opinion (and likely a quick fix), but you could be short-changing yourself.
When it comes to the integrity of your structure, you should seek the advice of an expert in siding installation and repair.
Ideally, you want a company that specializes in building envelope inspections and rainscreen systems. It would be best if you trusted a qualified business capable of handling repairs on different types of siding. Look for companies that warranty their work.
When you hire a professional siding repair service, they will thoroughly inspect your siding for hidden damage and provide a detailed assessment. Siding specialists use high-quality materials for long-lasting results and handle all aspects of the repair process.
Should you require replacement, reputable dealers will be able to offer you a variety of modern siding options to choose from, including:
- Skin slat cladding (concrete with reinforced glass fibres)
- High-density laminate timber panels
- Terracotta exteriors
- Ceramic-coated siding (fibre cement and recycled materials)
- Aluminum composite panels
- Longboard siding
- Standing seam metal siding
Not only will a siding specialist provide you with plentiful options, but you’re also more likely to receive timely service, fair pricing, and a beautifully restored exterior.
Do You Own Property in Metro Vancouver?
By inspecting your siding regularly, at least once a year, you can save money in the long run and avoid more extensive repairs in the future. Should you have any concerns, Maison Exteriors can assess the situation and offer a suitable remedy.
Contact them today for added peace of mind.