Replacing the siding on your home can be costly and time-consuming, and it is understandable that most homeowners want to extend the life of their siding for as long as possible. However, siding is a material that has a limited lifespan, and there will come a time when replacing all types of siding is necessary. As a homeowner, it is important to understand what the lifespan of your siding is and to know what factors may indicate that the time has come to replace it rather than to make repairs.
How Long Does Siding Last?
The condition of your home’s siding will impact everything from curb appeal and the structural integrity of your home to energy efficiency and climate control inside the home. Clearly, there are important reasons why you want to pay attention to the condition of your home’s siding and keep it in the best condition possible through periodic or as-needed repairs. However, siding may need to be replaced from time to time, according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors. Typically, most types of siding may last up to 50 years or more on a home, but there is some variation to this based on different factors. For example, wood siding that is well-maintained may provide a century of use. In addition, some homeowners may opt to replace siding well before this to improve the curb appeal of the property.
Factors That Can Affect the Life of Your Home’s Siding
There are numerous factors that can impact the condition of your home’s siding. For example, exposure to sun, wind, rain and other natural elements can affect the siding. In addition, pest damage, wood rot and rust may also cause damage to some types of siding. The weather conditions in your area, how well-maintained your siding is, the type of siding that is installed and other relevant factors all will impact the life of your home’s siding. By power washing it, painting it periodically, making repairs as needed and keeping tree branches and other items away from the siding, you can extend its life for as long as possible.
Signs That Indicate Siding Replacement May Be Needed
If your siding is getting older in age, you may wonder if the time has come to make a replacement. According to Siding Magazine, there are a few signs that you may notice that indicate that a replacement is needed. For example, you may notice that the siding is rotted or warped in numerous locations. The energy efficiency of the home may not be as superior as you would like it to be. Your siding may appear to be sunken or raised areas, or it may have visible signs of pest damage in several locations. In addition, you may desire a different look to the home with a new style of siding. If any of these indicators are present, a replacement may be needed.
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Replacing siding on even a smaller home can be rather expensive, but this is an improvement that will benefit your home in many ways for years to come. Furthermore, if a replacement is needed, delaying the work may result in additional damage to your home. When you believe a replacement may be needed, the be option is to seek advice from a siding contractor. The contractor can provide you with more information regarding the benefits of a replacement versus a repair.
