How To Tell If You Need To Replace Your Siding
Siding plays an important role in keeping various harmful elements out of your home, such as water, heat, and pests. But all of those elements eventually take their toll on siding. So, how do you know when the time has come to replace your siding?
When siding deteriorates, it no longer offers the same protective or aesthetic benefits as it once did. If you notice one or more of the following signs of deterioration, then you may need to replace your home's siding.
You See Evidence of Rotting
Since siding encounters moisture regularly, rot is always a concern. Wet rot often occurs in areas where moisture proliferates, such as under gutters that often clog. Dry rot is also a risk since the fungi that cause dry rot gravitate to moist wood, and then gradually break that wood down. If parts of your siding feel soft or crumbly to the touch, rot has set in and you should consider replacing it.
You Have a Mold Problem in Your Home
Moist or rotting siding often accompanies mold or mildew, which may eventually find its way indoors. If you have spotted mold on a wall of your home, check the exterior of your home for evidence of wood rot. Rotting siding and mold on the interior of your home in the same area is a sign that siding replacement may be necessary.
Your Home Is Draftier Than Usual
When siding fails to protect your home, one outcome is a draft, especially around windows and walls. Check to see where the drafts in your home are coming from because faulty or damaged siding could be to blame.
Your Energy Bills Have Increased
Siding helps to insulate your home against cold and hot weather from outside. Siding can also help to keep heat inside your home. So if your energy bills are increasing with no discernable cause, check your siding.
You See Visible Signs of Damage
The clearest sign that your siding probably needs replacing is visible damage. If areas of your siding are cracked, missing, or warped, this will affect your home's curb appeal and leave your home at the mercy of the elements.
Your Siding Needs Constant Maintenance
Are you carrying out a lot of maintenance on your siding? Then you can probably save yourself money in the long term by investing in some new siding rather than continuing to carry out regular repairs and maintenance.
If you see any of these signs, then you should call a siding contractor, such as YBR Group inc, to replace your current siding.