What You Need to Know About Siding Repair in Calgary
What You Need to Know About Siding Repair in Calgary
When it comes to maintaining your home’s exterior, siding repair should be high on your priority list. Many homeowners focus on roof repairs and replacements. But it’s important not to overlook the significance of proper siding maintenance.
Whether you have vinyl siding, wood siding, cedar siding, or even metal siding, taking care of it is crucial. It’s important for preserving the structural integrity of your home and avoiding costly fixes down the road.
Damaged siding, even if seemingly minor, can have far-reaching consequences. It can compromise your home’s curb appeal. It also allows moisture to seep in and cause water damage. This may lead to more serious issues like mold growth or even structural instability. That’s why addressing any issues promptly and enlisting the help of siding experts is vital to ensure the longevity and beauty of your home.
Calgary homeowners have a wide range of siding options to choose from. This includes vinyl siding, wood siding, cedar siding, and metal siding. Each type of siding has its own unique characteristics and maintenance requirements.
For instance, vinyl siding is known for its durability, low maintenance needs, and energy efficiency. This makes it a popular choice among homeowners. But even vinyl siding can suffer damage over time. it could require professional vinyl siding repair to restore its integrity.
When a piece of siding becomes damaged or starts to deteriorate, it’s crucial to address it promptly. Delaying siding repairs can lead to further issues, such as roof leaks, water damage, and reduced energy efficiency. Engaging in regular exterior maintenance and promptly addressing any siding concerns is essential.
By doing so, you can ensure that your home remains in optimal condition while enhancing its curb appeal.
Read more about how to spot if your home needs a siding repair.
#1: Hidden Dry Rot
Dry rot is one of the most common problems with siding that goes undetected because it can’t be seen by the naked eye.
What happens is the fungi that cause dry rot eats away the inner siding’s surface. This leaves the outside body siding still intact and even looking like the siding is untouched.
The key is to find the rot before it becomes obvious to the naked eye.
Dry rot can be found by tapping on your house siding with a rubber handle of a tool. If you hear a hollow noise when tapping against your siding, there’s a good chance you have dry rot.
Consult a roofing and siding expert immediately if you think there is even a chance of dry rot. Extensive dry rot that has been left undetected can result in a total siding replacement. Better to be safe than sorry.
#2: Increase in Cooling & Heating Bills
There are many reasons why your air conditioning and heating system bills are higher than normal.
If you experience a noticeable spike in your billing, the first thing you should do is inspect your roof and attic. If you can rule out those as the culprit, the next step is to get a siding inspection.
Your cooling and heating system shouldn’t be doing all the work. The purpose of siding and insulation is to keep cooled or heated air locked in the home.
Not all siding and insulation are created equal.
Low-grade wall insulation combined with underperforming siding results in excessive heating and cooling costs due to the air escaping the home.
Another way to detect underperforming siding other than skyrocketing bills is if you are feeling drafts in your home.
According to the Sears Home Service, “If you feel drafts near walls and windows, or around switches and electrical receptacles, chances are that additional insulation and new siding would make a huge difference, both in terms of eliminating drafts and saving you money on heating and cooling.”
#3: Over-Painting Your Home
An easy and obvious sign that your home needs siding replacement is how its paint job holds up.
If you find that you are needing to repaint your home every five to six years, it’s likely that there is something wrong with your siding itself.
Another factor to look out for is severe fading. If the colour of your siding has lost its vibrancy, it typically indicates that the waterproofing has run its course.
Quality siding will hold up its colour and shape for at least eight to ten years.
If your paint is peeling, chipping or cracking, this usually means you need a siding replacement, not just a new paint job.
#4: Loose or Cracked Siding
Loose or cracked siding is another factor that may not be as obvious to the naked eye.
Usually, after a severe storm, it may be best to inspect the exterior of your home.
It’s common that after a storm, one or two boards become loose or cracked. There’s no need to be alarmed. But, it’s best to replace the few damaged boards before they lead to more extensive harm to your home’s interior.
In a Study Guide for How to Inspect the Exterior Course, Sears Home Services suggests to “take a walk around your property and inspect your exterior siding closely, from multiple angles – In particular, check for any siding that no longer lies flat.”
Bulging or warped siding panels, even if minor, can be the tip of the iceberg. Regardless of how minor or extensive the damage is, any disfigurement of the siding should be addressed sooner than later.
Any broken, loose, or cracked siding must be removed and replaced to prevent water from seeping behind the damaged pieces.
#5: Subtle Signs Inside Your Home
While not always immediately evident, loose wallpaper and peeling paint are both signs of faulty siding.
With unmaintained siding, moisture can seep through the outer layer of the home and percolate in your wallboards.
That moisture inside your home is not always obvious at first but can cause the paint to peel, yellowish water stain, or weakened wallpaper adhesion.
As soon as you see these signs, consult an expert immediately.
#6: Small Holes or Dents in the Siding
Even the smallest hole is cause for concern. Tiny holes in your siding are often a result of insects eating away at the exterior of your home.
Bugs puncturing your home can lead to two issues:
- the need for an exterminator
- any breach in your siding, regardless of its size, can permit moisture to enter
Similarly, dents, holes, and cracks, usually caused by severe weather, jeopardize the integrity of the house.
Any damage and gaps to the exterior of the home increase the risk of moisture and pests entering your home.
Conclusion
If you’re uncertain about siding types or need help with exterior fixes, consider consulting siding experts.
Experts like Fortress Roofing can assess the situation and provide tailored solutions. These professionals have the expertise to guide you in making informed decisions about your home’s siding. Whether it’s repairing a piece of siding, replacing damaged sections, or exploring options for a complete exterior renovation.
Remember, just as you invest in roof repairs and replacement, prioritizing siding repair and maintenance is equally important. By taking measures and seeking professional help when needed, you can enjoy a beautiful, well-maintained home that stands the test of time.
It is better to be proactive with your home to prevent more costly fixes. If you still question whether or not you need a siding replacement, don’t hesitate to book an inspection by experts.
