Siding Repair or Siding Replacement?

ladder by the home siding wall

Discussing siding repair and replacement, it’s essential to understand the many kinds of siding accessible to Washington residents. Each form of siding has several pros and downsides.

Are pieces of the siding on your house cracked or rotten? Siding damage may create a slew of issues for Washington homes. In the shattered area, water, filth, and vermin may readily enter your property.

Numerous homeowners contact our Seattle siding experts to determine if they need siding repair or siding replacement. The solution is not straightforward, and it is situation-dependent. This informative article will discuss the advantages of siding repair vs. siding replacement. It will assist you in determining which service is best for your house.

When it comes to maintaining the aesthetic and structural integrity of your home, the condition of your siding plays a crucial role. At KV Construction LLC, we understand the importance of making informed decisions about siding repair or replacement. This article delves into the various aspects of siding maintenance, offering insights to help you determine the best course of action for your home in Seattle.

Siding Types

Before discussing siding repair and replacement, it’s essential to understand the many kinds of siding accessible to Washington residents. Each form of siding has several pros and downsides.

Consider the kind of siding on your property when deciding between siding replacement and repair. If you choose to change your siding, staying current on the newest siding options and their advantages is always a good idea.

These are the most common varieties of siding that homeowners may choose from.

 

WOOD SIDING

Wood siding, known for its natural beauty and traditional appeal, is a popular choice among homeowners. It’s environmentally friendly, easy to customize through painting or staining, and relatively simple to repair. However, it requires regular maintenance and can be more expensive than other options.

Many homes choose wood siding. Wood lends a natural, traditional aesthetic look to your house and has an enduring appeal.

Wood siding has many distinct advantages and disadvantages. Wood siding is simple to paint, and you may paint or stain it to your desired color. If you want a more natural appearance, you may also treat the wood with a transparent stain.

Wood siding is environmentally beneficial. Numerous homeowners in the Pacific Northwest favor eco-friendly products. Wood is a sustainable material that is biodegradable and requires less energy to manufacture than petroleum-based siding.

Additionally, wood siding is simple to repair and replace if it gets damaged. Fill up any minor holes with putty or replace any damaged boards if the area has sustained substantial damage.

However, one disadvantage of wood siding is its cost. Siding made of wood is one of the most costly siding alternatives available to homeowners. It might be an excellent investment if you want to remain in your house for an extended period.

Repaint or stain the wood siding every three to seven years, depending on your environment. This guard against decay and bugs on your wood siding.

 

ENGINEERED WOOD OR FIBER CEMENT

Engineered wood, commonly referred to as fiber cement, is a low-cost material that is simple to install and maintain. Resin is used to bind wood chips together to create fiber cement siding. A resin binder covers and compresses the boards.

The boards have a grainy look and are available in a variety of colors. Engineered wood siding is about half the price of genuine wood siding and requires less time and effort to install, and this is because it is much lighter than actual wood.

Engineered wood is warrantied. Inquire about the manufacturer’s warranty on the engineered siding.

Engineered items are generally regarded to be ecologically favorable. They are developed and maintained in an environmentally and socially appropriate way.

Fiber cement is a composite material comparable to engineered wood. It is well-known for its unique curing process, which makes it warp-resistant and straightforward to paint. It is very cost-effective and long-lasting.

Fiber cement, on the other hand, has the same moisture issues as engineered wood. Additionally, it is rather heavy and requires specialized equipment to install.

Engineered wood, also known as fiber cement siding, offers a cost-effective and low-maintenance alternative to traditional wood. It’s lightweight, durable, and comes with a manufacturer’s warranty, making it an increasingly popular choice in Seattle. However, it’s important to be aware of potential moisture issues with this material.

 

STONE VENEER

​A Stone veneer is a kind of decorative house siding that resembles genuine stone. It is created using Portland cement and natural or synthetic colors poured into stone-shaped molds.

When installed and maintained correctly, stone veneer siding will endure a very long time.

The primary benefit of a stone veneer is that it is far less costly than natural stone. Additionally, it is lightweight and straightforward to install by a competent contractor.

However, stone veneer is mass-produced, and a careful examination reveals identical fragments in form and size.

Certain types of stone veneer enable moisture to seep between the stones, resulting in mold growth. Certain firms have developed solutions to this issue, so be sure to bring it up with your contractor before installing a stone veneer.

 

SIDING REPAIR

After learning about the variety of house siding, you may be thinking, “Do I need siding repair?” Often, siding may be repaired rather than replaced.

Often, you may get away with repairing the broken boards rather than completely re-siding your property. Of course, there is an exception to this rule. If the damaged siding has produced structural problems or has proceeded to a point where it cannot be repaired, you will need to replace the whole siding.

Maintain good siding upkeep and make necessary repairs to minimize the need for costlier repairs down the line.

A siding contractor may inspect your property. They will be able to identify siding flaws and determine where these difficulties have resulted in significant structural damage. They can assist you in determining if repairs or replacements are the best options for your Pacific Northwest house.

Signs You Need Siding Repair

  • Cracked or rotting wood siding can often be repaired if the damage is localized.
  • Small holes or cracks in vinyl siding should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage.

When to Consider Siding Replacement

  • Significant structural damage or widespread issues like mold growth often necessitate siding replacement.
  • If your energy bills are increasing due to poor insulation from old siding, it’s time to consider replacement with energy-efficient options.

The Signs That Your Siding Is in Need of Repair or Replacement

Making repairs or replacing siding is a necessary element of keeping the siding on your house. Keep an eye out for the following symptoms that indicate when it’s time to repair or replace your siding.

 

CRACKED SIDING BOARDS

​If you detect a decaying part of your siding, it’s plainly time for a repair. This is a regular occurrence with wood siding and may be a simple remedy depending on the extent of the rot.

Consider the outside of your property. Examine any boards that are disintegrating or showing signs of decay. If the rot is contained inside a single location, you may be able to fix those particular boards. If the rot has extended to the external siding, you may need to repair it.

Replacing rotting boards with rot-resistant materials is a good idea. These specialized planks withstand moisture effectively and prevent your siding from rotting.

 

SIDING HOLES AND CRACKS

​Vinyl siding is prone to cracks and holes. It’s not uncommon for a rock or other piece of debris to fly up and strike your home’s exterior, causing a hole or chip.

Holes are more than cosmetic flaws in the appearance of your property. If not addressed immediately, they might jeopardize structural integrity. Gaps or holes allow for the entry of moisture, dirt, or vermin.

A hole in vinyl siding cannot be fixed. Rather than that, the complete circuit board must be changed. Fortunately, this is a simple repair. You would then remove the compromised board and replace it with a new vinyl board.

It is recommended to patch holes or cracks immediately to avoid additional harm.

 

THE ENERGY BILL IS SKYROCKETING

​Have you noticed an unusual increase in your energy bill? This might be a clue that your siding needs to be replaced. Suppose you see drafts around windows or electrical switches, and your energy bill has increased. In that case, you have a problem – these are symptoms that your siding is too old and incapable of performing its function.

Most likely, replacing your existing siding with new siding will make a significant impact. Additionally, it will save you money on heating and cooling. Consider Energy Star certified siding and insulation products, and choose a siding that is both attractive and economical.
 
MOLD AND MILDEW

Another frequent issue with siding is moisture exposure. Mold and mildew thrive in moist environments. If you see mold or mildew growing on your siding, act promptly to remedy the situation.

Investigate the outside of your property thoroughly to determine the extent of the issue. If you find a damaged region, you may have discovered the source of the problem. Siding that is damaged enables moisture to enter.

Once moisture is trapped inside your siding, mold, and mildew may quickly spread over the outside of your house. Depending on the extent of the spread, it may be necessary to repair the external siding.

If you’re wondering, “Do I need siding replacement?” and your problem includes mold, the answer is almost always yes. Mold may quickly spread over the outside of your house, and once your home’s whole outside siding has been molded, nothing may be done to restore the damage.

Avoid this by identifying areas of damaged siding and repairing them before it is too late.

Additionally, it is prudent to keep an eye out for internal mold indicators. Mold may manifest itself on the inside of your house.

Consider walls that have siding on the other side. Are they speckled with tiny black dots? This might be mold growth.

Keep an eye out for peeling wallpaper and other indicators of wetness on the inside of your property.

 

WARPED SIDING BOARDS

​While strolling around the outside of your property, inspect your siding from a variety of perspectives. Keep an eye out for planks that aren’t resting flat. Boards that are warped or bulging protrude.

These boards are often just the tip of the iceberg and frequently indicate a more serious issue. When you discover a warped board, it is almost often the result of damage.

The good news is that these boards are often repairable. Speak with your siding contractor; they will identify the issue and advise you on the best course of action.

 

Is it Necessary to Hire a Siding Professional?

Many individuals feel that they can repair or replace their siding without the assistance of a professional. Consider the following points if you are contemplating doing the repairs yourself.

Do you have any siding experience? Yes, you can probably fix yourself if you have expertise in installing and repairing siding.

Are you doing a minor repair, or are you residing in your home? While an experienced do-it-yourselfer could definitely do a little siding job independently, residing your whole house is a different issue. You may need to enlist the assistance of a professional contractor or a large number of pals.

What are your time limits and financial constraints? While a do-it-yourself project can save you money, it will also take longer to finish. If you believe you can re-side your home with a few buddies over the weekend, think again.

A professional crew may re-side a house in a matter of weeks, depending on the size and weather conditions. Consider the cost of your time and consider if saving a few dollars is worth it.

Choosing whether to repair or replace your siding is not a decision to be taken lightly. At KV Construction LLC, our team of experienced siding contractors in Seattle is equipped to assess the condition of your siding and provide tailored recommendations. We understand the unique challenges faced by homes in the Pacific Northwest and are committed to delivering solutions that enhance both the appearance and functionality of your home.

 

SIDING REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT MADE EASY

Your home’s siding is more than just an aesthetic feature; it’s a critical component of your home’s protection and energy efficiency. Whether you’re considering wood siding, fiber cement, or stone veneer, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each material and understand when repairs are sufficient or when a full replacement is necessary. With the expertise of KV Construction LLC, you can ensure that your home in Seattle not only looks its best but also provides the safety and comfort you deserve.

Siding repair and replacement are part of your homeowner’s responsibilities. If you’re unsure if you need siding repair or replacement, see our helpful information. When it comes to siding repair and replacement, it’s always a good idea to get a second opinion.

KV Construction of the Pacific Northwest is your one-stop shop for exterior home improvements. Our knowledgeable, competent experts are always on time to answer your requirements.

Request service, and one of our PNW professionals will come out and examine the siding on your house. We can determine if the task is simple to repair or replace and have your property looking brand new in no time.