When Do You Need To Have Your Vinyl Siding Replaced?
Vinyl siding is a popular exterior home covering, thanks to its durability and ease of maintenance. Unfortunately, no siding material lasts forever. You can expect your vinyl siding to last between 30-40 years. However, extreme weather events may cause it to deteriorate much faster, calling for a replacement.
Overall, knowing when your siding was installed can help you determine when it's due for replacement. But if your siding is beginning to show signs of wear and tear, it's important to schedule an inspection by a professional installer to determine if it's time for a new siding. Here are a few reasons to replace your vinyl siding:
1. Structural Damage
A home's structure can settle over time, making siding buckle or bulge. This makes your siding less effective at doing its job.
2. Insect Damage
Although vinyl siding protects your property from the elements, it can also create a home for earwigs, ants, wasps, and a host of other creepy crawlies. Whenever you notice small holes in your siding, it could mean insects have made their way inside.
These tiny holes can harm your home's curb appeal and allow moisture in, resulting in mold growth and other damage.
3. Mold and Mildew
Sometimes, roof leaks or clogged gutters might lead to rainwater penetrating your siding. The excessive moisture can trigger mold and mildew growth, which manifests as gray, black, or white spots on the siding. While pressure washing might remove mold and mildew, it often forces water underneath the siding, soaking wall cavities and insulation. If you notice excessive mold and mildew on your siding, it's best to replace your siding to prevent further structural damage.
4. Poor Siding Installation
The longevity of your siding also depends mainly on the quality of installation. Although vinyl is designed to last 30-40 years, it may fail prematurely if it wasn't installed correctly. For example, if the siding isn't allowed room to expand and contract, it can begin to buckle or warp due to fluctuating temperatures. Let a professional installer inspect the installation and recommend the right course of action.
When Insurance Covers Siding Replacement
Your homeowner's insurance policy typically covers your home's matching siding if a covered peril causes the damage. Common events include hail, wind, tornado, and fire. For example, if hail or wind damages siding on one side of your home, your insurance policy may cover the damage and replace the damaged siding with its exact match.
However, sometimes finding an exact match can be difficult, especially if your siding is older and the manufacturer no longer produces the same style. Besides, your insurer will only cover the damaged area of your home. So, even if you can find an exact model, the new siding might not match the existing, faded siding. Again, working with an experienced siding professional can help you understand your options and find the right solution. Overall, it's hard to tell what's under your siding until it's removed. If your vinyl siding is coming off, dented up, bent back in some areas, extremely discolored, or has penetrations in it, it could be time to start shopping for new replacement siding. At Couto Construction, we specialize in installing and replacing vinyl siding in Southeastern Massachusetts, Cape Cod, and Rhode Island. Contact us today to schedule a free inspection and see if it's time to replace your current siding!