The home is one of your most valuable assets. It’s important to protect it and keep it in top condition for as long as possible.
One of the ways you can do that is by regularly replacing the siding on your house. But how often should you do that? And what are your options when it comes to siding? Keep reading to find out!
The Life Expectancy of Exterior Siding
Although a house’s siding is quite literally one of the largest aspects of a home’s exterior, it is also often the most overlooked. Siding protects your house from the elements and can really affect the curb appeal of your home.
The life expectancy of this exterior element varies greatly based on what is used to make it. The pros and cons of natural wood siding vary greatly from those of aluminum siding. Locations with extreme weather conditions, like Colorado, often see higher usage of durable materials such as fiber cement siding and vinyl siding.
When properly maintained, it can be expected for any of these sidings to last at least 20 years. Choosing the right siding is more than appearance and durability; it’s also choosing the one that doesn’t require too much maintenance.
Factors That Can Shorten The Lifespan of Your House Siding
If you take care of your siding, it will take care of you. But if you neglect it, you may find yourself replacing the siding sooner than you’d like.
Several factors to watch out for include:
• The Wrong Materials for Your Location
• Improper Installation by the Wrong Contractors
• Neglecting to Regularly Clean and Re-Seal the Siding
How to Tell if Your Siding Needs to Be Replaced
Anything that is left outside for too long can become worn down and ineffective. Yet it can still be hard to determine when it’s time for a siding repair or replacement.
Peeling paint is one of the biggest house siding warnings. Although some may believe it’s just time for a new coat of paint, it is also a sign of mold or moisture inside the underlying wood and other layers.
Warped boards, blisters, and cracks are additional signs of damaged siding. Even small cracks can cause further damage by allowing water and moisture into your home.
Significant changes in your heating and cooling bills can be a sign to start shopping for siding that keeps your home insulated. Consult with a siding expert to find something to fit your needs, style, and budget.
What Materials Should You Consider for Your Siding Replacement?
If you think your siding will need to be replaced soon, there are many options to choose from. While wood siding is one of the original materials used nationwide, many homeowners in Colorado struggle with siding problems such as dry rot. Meanwhile, metal siding, such as aluminum siding, is typically reserved for commercial buildings only.
Fiber Cement vs. Vinyl Siding Installation
In Colorado, fiber cement siding and vinyl siding are two of the most popular choices, but how do you know which one is right for you? Both fiber cement and vinyl siding have pros and cons, so it’s important to take a closer look at each before making a decision.
Fiber cement is a durable material that can mimic the look of wood or stone for an average of 50 years. It’s resistant to fire and pests, making it a safe choice for your home. However, this heavy material requires the best professionals for proper care and installation.
Vinyl siding is a lighter-weight alternative that is easy to install and maintain. While it is not as durable as fiber cement, vinyl siding is a budget-friendly option with a 20-year average lifespan.
The Installation Process with a Siding Contractor
Structural integrity is of the utmost importance when it comes to your home. That’s why, if you’re thinking about installing new siding, you’ll want to ensure that the process is done correctly. Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect from siding professionals:
First, the old siding will need to be removed. This includes taking off any trim or flashing that might be in place. Next, a layer of Tyvek paper will be installed to weatherproof the area.
Once that’s in place, it’s time to start installing the new layer of vinyl siding or other preferred material. This will involve nailing or screwing the panels into place, making sure that they’re level and secure. Finally, the trim and flashing will be replaced, and any seams will be sealed to further prevent moisture damage.
If you follow these steps, you can be confident that you can enjoy years of beauty and protection for your home instead of repeated siding failures.
Peak to Peak Roofing and Exteriors: Your Best Siding Repair and Replacement Teammate
Siding is an important part of your home’s exterior and if it starts to show its age, you’ll want to replace it as soon as possible. We hope this blog post has helped you better understand the lifespan of fiber cement and vinyl siding and how to tell when it’s time for a replacement. If you have any questions or would like a free inspection, please don’t hesitate to contact us today!