As homeowners, we are always looking for ways to rejuvenate and transform the look of our homes while significantly reducing its upkeep and maintenance. This is especially the case for those whose homes are “not getting any younger.” One of the ways you can do this is more commonly known as re-siding.
Siding acts as a protector of your home’s exterior while improving its aesthetic appeal at the same time. This is why it matters to re-side it as soon as you see fit. Here are four crucial things you need to know before a siding replacement.
4 Crucial Considerations before Replacing the Siding
- A close-up inspection of your siding is crucial before purchasing a new one.
Check to see if any siding is warped. For areas that appear warped, check if the layer underneath feels rotted. If it is, check next for any peeling paint, sagging wallpaper, and mildew or mold formation. If you notice any of these in your siding, it means that moisture can seep beneath the siding and into the wallboard. This can cause damage in your home’s interior walls.
Other signs to look for are the following:
- Appearance of fungus
- Obvious separation of seams
- Caulking failure
- Boards that no longer lay flat against your house
- Swelling
- Delaminating
Seeing any of these siding failure signs almost always mean that a siding replacement is in order. To be sure, check with your contractor first.
- Dry rot in wood sidings is another problem to check for.
One of the most common problems in wood siding is dry rot. Since it’s not visible to the naked eye all the time, you need to tap into the sidings various areas using a hammer or the bottom of a screw driver.
If you find dry rot, your contractor may recommend a full siding replacement as just replacing the damaged sections can compromise the structural integrity of your home.
- Choosing the right color of siding can go a long way in keeping your home’s aesthetic appeal.
Before deciding on what siding color to choose, ask yourself the following questions.
- What colors predominate in your neighborhood?
- What is the general climate in the area where you reside?
- Does your siding color of choice complement your home’s exterior color scheme?
The reason you have to know what color palette dominates the homes in your neighborhood is because your homeowner’s association may have rules about color options.
With regards to climate, it’s important to choose a lighter shade when you are residing in an area where you experience hot more than cold climate. For those residing in colder areas, a bolder color of siding is normally recommended.
Lastly, your siding color of choice should not be in conflict with the existing color of your home’s window frames and doors. This way, everything is in harmony and your home’s aesthetic appeal will be enhanced further.
- Choosing the right siding material is crucial in keeping your home’s value.
There are various types of siding materials that you can choose from. Before you pick one, ask yourself the following questions.
- What is the most common siding type in your neighborhood?
- What is the best siding material to choose according to your climate?
- Do you want a low-maintenance siding?
It’s best to choose a siding which is the same as those in your neighborhood. This is because deviating from the most common type of siding may possibly lower your home’s value.
With regards to choosing a siding material that would best fit your climate, your roofing contractor can help you. They’d look into heat, humidity, and even the existence of termites before giving you a recommendation.
Lastly, know that vinyl siding requires the least maintenance. Wood siding is the one needing the most amount of maintenance while fiber cement siding falls in the middle.
Your Roofing Contractor Can Help You Make the Best Decision
Your home’s siding is one of the first things people will see when they look and observe your home. With the help of a reputable roofing specialist, you’ll be on your way to choosing and having a siding that you can be proud of anytime.
Written by True Son Exteriors, the best contractor for roofing in Columbia, MO.