Siding is second only to your roof in keeping the elements out and protecting your home and family. Moreover, it enhances curb appeal.

But when should you contract a Portland siding contractor? Here are the signs that indicate replacement is the way to go.

How Long Since It Was Replaced?

Different materials have different lifespans: wood lasts about ten years, vinyl 10 to 20 years, depending on quality. Fiber cement, on the other hand, will last half a century.

If your siding is reaching the end of its expected lifespan, replacement is the way to go.

However, you may not remember when you had a Portland siding contractor do an installation job (or it was done before you bought your home).

Check its condition in late summer through early fall, and contact a contractor if necessary.

When to Repair Siding Instead of Replacing It

Small amounts of damage, such as a single board with a hole from an errant baseball, are generally an indicator to repair.

Replacing all the siding on your home piecemeal becomes much more expensive in the long run and makes color matching difficult.

Signs That It's Time for a Replacement

Some signs of damage may appear minor to a casual glance. However, a Portland siding contractor seeing the signs listed below will recommend a speedy replacement.

Fading Siding

Siding tends to fade due to years of exposure to sunlight. If you need to refresh its looks with a fresh coat of paint every five years or so, get it replaced.

Choosing high-quality James Hardie fiber cement products ensures unchanged color for many decades.

Loose, Splitting, or Cracking Siding

Sun exposure weakens siding; high winds then rip it from the side of your house so that it flaps about and splits.

Holes

Hailstones and termites are two common causes of holes. Holes let rain and snow in, leading to water damage.

Water Damage

Bubbles or rust in exterior paint or water stains indoors indicate moisture is getting in through your siding. Lookout for organisms such as molds and mildew, especially near the seams.

Mold can cause various health problems, such as asthma.

Stopping mold growth is only possible by restricting the warm, moist conditions they find favorable for growth.

Rotting Wood

Moisture in the timber members of your house encourages brown rot or white rot. The resultant structural damage can be extensive, severe, and devastatingly expensive.

If you see signs of water damage in your home, test wood for rot – it should not yield to being poked gently with a screwdriver, nor split, crumble, or emit a hollow sound when tapped.

Increased Energy Bills

Siding helps keep heat indoors in winter and outdoors in summer. If it's losing its insulatory capacity, your HVAC has to work harder, pushing upper your energy bills.

Conclusion

Hire a Portland siding contractor to do a replacement if the damage is severe or extensive, and reap the rewards.

Choose a contractor with a track record of satisfied customers and proven expertise for the best results.