Is it Time to Replace your Siding?
Like most people, you may not typically give siding much thought, but siding, along with roofing, is one of the most important components protecting your home from the elements. Siding also plays a major factor in the overall appearance of your home, which in turn affects its value.
Is it time to replace your siding?
Despite its importance, siding is often a neglected feature on many homes. Now is the time to assess the state of your siding. Is your current siding showing signs of staining, uneven weathering, buckling or decay? If it is, you should check the interior finish in the same area for signs of damage.
Also, check if the siding has areas that are deformed or displaced. And check for damaged siding near grade level, a particularly susceptible area for water penetration, which could lead to deterioration of the sheathing and framing of your home.
Look for signs of damage or decay
If your siding is cracked, rotted, dented, corroded, pitted, looks chalky or dull, or has water stains or moss growth, it may be time for new siding. Of course, it will depend on the extent of the damage whether it's time to replace your siding or if a repair job will suffice for now. Or you may just think it's time for a change. Maybe it's time install a new type of siding altogether, or a new color to completely change the look of your home.
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Things to consider
So with all the options, what is the best choice for your home? And the answer is, there is no single right answer. There are, however, several factors to consider when deciding on the type of siding to install on your home. And those are: the climate you live in, architectural compatibility with your home, product quality, appearance, cost, maintenance requirements, and the ability to repair or replace in the event of damage.
Metal Siding (Aluminum and Steel)
Metal siding is a good choice if you live in a climate with harsh winters, or an area that is prone to tornados. Both aluminum and steel siding are very durable - steel being the most durable of all. However, exposed edges of steel siding tend to rust, so be sure to have trim pieces protecting edges (seamless steel siding is fit to the exact length of your house, eliminating seams that can rust and collect dirt and moisture).
Despite its durability, aluminum siding is susceptible to dents, which can be repaired, but it is easiest to just replace the damaged sections. As a precaution, it is a good idea to order some extra material to have on hand for repairs. You never know, the manufacturer may discontinue your particular shade or texture.
Metal siding is energy-efficient
A great benefit to metal siding, especially in colder climates, is its energy efficiency. You will pay more for metal siding than for many other types of siding, but it will save you money on heating and cooling costs year after year. As a rough estimate, you can expect to pay around $2.50-$3.00+ per square foot for aluminum siding, compared to $1.25+ for wood, and around $1.75+ for vinyl siding. Use the Cost Estimator tool to estimate the cost of your siding project.
May need repainting
Metal siding is your best choice in terms of fire resistance, it is very waterproof, and is relatively low maintenance, at least in the first few years for aluminum. After the first few years, the paint surface on metal siding may begin to oxidize and fade, resulting in a dull look. In time, the paint may peel, blister or crack.
Although metal siding can be cleaned and painted to protect against chalking, corrosion and pitting, once corroded, metal siding offers insufficient protection. In fact, it is a good idea to repaint metal siding when it leaves a chalky residue on your finger.
Buckled sections should be fixed or replaced
With metal siding you need to look out for buckling. This is generally due to improper installation, where siding is nailed on too tightly, and doesn't allow for expansion and contraction. In this case, the affected siding needs to be removed and reapplied. Not only is buckled siding unattractive, but it is more prone to water penetration, which can cause damage to the structure of the building and the interior finish.
For a durable, energy-efficient siding that resembles wood but requires less maintenance - especially with newer metal paints and painting technology - steel and aluminum siding is a good bet. Contact a local Metal Siding Contractor for a quote today.
Use the Cost Estimator Tool to estimate the cost of your siding project.
