The typical siding installation lasts between 20 and 40 years, depending on the material and the quality of the installation. But how do you know when your exterior cladding is nearing the end of its life?

Read on to learn some key visual indicators of failing siding and how a Portland siding contractor can help you with a replacement!

Cracks and Craters: Structural Damage

The most obvious sign that your exterior cladding needs replacement is physical damage like rot, warping, or cracking. Properly installed siding forms a barrier around your home - one damaged board makes the whole system less effective.

If only one or two boards are damaged, a Portland siding contractor may be able to repair it without much fuss. But if more than a few boards are damaged, it’s probably time to replace the entire structure.

Blisters and Bubbles: Water Damage

If the surface of the boards is beginning to blister, that’s a sign that water has gotten inside your siding. Your exterior cladding system isn’t doing its job of protecting your home from moisture. Prolonged water damage can also degrade the structural integrity of the boards, causing them to crack or pit.

Water damage may also result in the growth of mold and fungus in your walls. Not every sighting of life is catastrophic - you may just need to clean the outside of your home. But you definitely need to investigate any mold or rot occurrences.

If you spot blisters and bubbles, it’s time to contact siding contractors in Portland.

Faded Paint: A Sign of Age

Is your pre-colored siding looking old and faded? Did you need to repaint your home’s exterior, even though you did it only a year or two ago?

As your home’s exterior ages, it starts to lose its outer weatherproofing layers, and the inside of the boards can become brittle. That can cause paint to fade from them and necessitate frequent paint touchups.

A siding contractor in Portland can replace your siding with quality pre-colored options like James Hardie ColorPlus.

Aging Exteriors And Your Home’s Interior

Aging and damaged siding can even affect the interior of your home. If there’s water damage on the exterior of your home, it’s only a matter of time before the interior is affected by moisture and mold.

One more subtle sign that you need to replace your home’s exterior cladding is rising energy bills. Old and damaged boards allow hot air to leak from your house in winter and cool air to leak out in summer.

If you want to replace your current cladding with a more energy-efficient option like fiber cement, your siding contractor in Portland can help you develop a plan.

Contact Portland Siding Contractors

If you need to replace your home’s exterior, it’s worth it to find the right siding contractors in Portland. Look for someone who’s licensed, bonded, and insured, as well as someone with great reviews and years of experience.

KVN Construction is a family-owned business serving Portland, OR, and Vancouver, WA. Give us a call for a free estimate at (503) GET-PROS to work with the Portland siding contractors you deserve!