Siding has a significant impact on the curb appeal of your home. On average, your home’s siding can last 20-30 years if properly maintained. If your vinyl siding is damaged or showing serious signs of wear, it may be time to replace it.
AIC Roofing has served the Louisville, Lexington, and Richmond areas since 2003. Our siding experts have helped homeowners solve all types of siding issues and can explain exactly why your siding may be failing. Depending on your situation, your siding may not need to be replaced.
In this article, we’ll cover how to spot the warning signs of failing siding and some siding replacement options.
7 Signs it’s Time to Replace Your Siding
Most homeowners are not siding experts and that is okay. However, it is smart to visually inspect your siding a few times a year for warning signs of failing siding.
- Splitting or cracking: Cracks and splits are the most obvious signs of siding damage. If the layer beneath gives way or shows rot, call a Lexington siding expert promptly.
- Swelling: Bowed or swollen siding often means water is trapped inside. Trapped water can lead to mold, mildew, and rot and may require siding replacement.
- Rot, fungus, mold, or mildew: Rotting siding cannot protect your home. Localized damage may be repairable, but widespread rot often requires full replacement.
- Wall stains: Stains on interior walls facing the exterior may indicate water penetration through siding or a roof leak. Have an expert inspect to prevent costly damage.
- Rising energy bills: Sudden spikes in energy bills may signal cracks or failure in your siding. Inspect or call an expert to rule this out.
- Excessive maintenance: Faded, worn, or chipped siding that requires frequent upkeep is a sign of age and lost protective properties.
- Pest or animal damage: Rodents, squirrels, raccoons, and woodpeckers can damage siding, especially near the roofline. Holes or cracks may indicate nesting activity.
Minor damage can often be repaired. However, neglecting siding for too long can lead to full replacement. Have siding experts perform a free visual inspection to determine the best course of action.
Is new siding a good investment?
New siding is a significant investment in your home. As with any large home improvement project, you want to ensure it will add value to your home.
According to the National Association of Realtors Research Group’s 2022 Remodeling Impact Report, fiber cement siding has an 86% cost recovery, and vinyl siding has an 82% cost recovery! That means, on average, homeowners recoup at least 80% of the cost of their siding project when the time comes to sell their homes. This doesn’t take into account the cost savings in energy efficiency, lower maintenance requirements, and for fiber cement siding – savings on home insurance premiums. Rest assured that new siding is a smart investment in your home and one that is sought after by home buyers.
What Types of Siding are Best?
There is truly no definitive answer for what siding is best. The answer to that question depends on your siding project goals, desired maintenance level, and budget. We typically discuss three popular siding options with our clients, and you may want to research them as you budget and plan for your siding project.
1. Vinyl Siding: Vinyl siding is an affordable option requiring the most maintenance. Vinyl siding may be a good option depending on your budget and how long you plan on living in your home.
2. Fiber Cement (James Hardie) Siding: Fiber Cement (Hardie Board) siding is a durable, low (virtually zero) maintenance siding option. It has finishes that mimic natural wood, and you’ll likely receive a discount on your homeowner’s insurance policy due to the fire resistance of fiber cement siding.
3. Cellular Composite Siding: Cellular composite siding is a long-lasting, low (virtually zero) maintenance siding option. While it may be more expensive per square foot than fiber cement siding, the costs to install it are cheaper, making them very comparable in price. If you’re going to live in your home for years to come and want to reap the advantages of no maintenance siding, Celect Cellular Composite is a great choice.
Next Steps – Having your siding inspected
The most important part of your new siding project is picking a reputable, experienced siding replacement company in Lexington to take care of your home. After reading this article, we hope you’re more knowledgeable about the warning signs of failing siding. Whether you’re just beginning your siding research or are ready to speak with a contractor, our Learning Center has answers about your project ranging from how long it will take to side your house to in-depth comparisons and reviews.
AIC Roofing and Construction has served the Louisville, Lexington, and Richmond communities since 2003. If you’re looking for a top-rated Lexington siding replacement contractor – we’d love to see if we would be a good fit for your project. Contact us today to schedule your no-hassle, initial consultation.