Winters in Ohio and Michigan come with significant rain and snow. When combined with freeze-thaw cycles, the stormy climate can contribute significantly to siding damage. From deep cracks to seam gaps, deterioration of your siding does more than impact your home’s curb appeal. It also leaves you at risk for pests, mold growth, wood rot, and more. That’s why promptly finding and addressing siding issues is key to both your comfort and safety.
In this article, the professionals at Freedom Roofing, Windows & Siding identify six clear signs that your siding needs repair and the risks of leaving these issues unaddressed. That way, homeowners can call for expert services to avoid further issues.
Cracked, Split, Chipped, or Punctured Siding
After winter, homeowners may notice visible cracks, small chips, or even puncture holes in their siding, especially on wide, exposed sides of their homes. These small openings can then allow moisture to penetrate, trapping water that can cause more damage and lead to issues like mold growth, insulation damage, and wood rot. To avoid these more costly issues, homeowners should schedule repairs promptly for visible damage. A contractor can remove the damaged siding panels and replace them with matching pieces to restore your protection against the elements.
Warped, Buckled, or Loose Siding Panels
Temperature swings that cause siding to expand and contract can lead to warping, buckling, or bulging siding. This may even cause panels to become loose and slightly detached from the wall. The wavy, uneven appearance isn’t the only issue in these circumstances. Loose siding reduces the effectiveness of your home’s protective barrier. This allows rain and snow to slip behind panels, causing moisture damage and structural deterioration. Trust an expert to re-secure any loose pieces and remove and replace those that are severely warped.
Gaps at Seams, Corners & Around Windows & Doors
Visible gaps where siding panels meet at seams, corners, or around windows and doors are unfortunately not uncommon. They are often caused by old or cracked caulk that has become brittle and shrunken or by failed flashing around windows. These gaps become entry points for water and cold air, impacting your comfort and energy efficiency. By repairing and resealing these vulnerable areas, you can create a tight seal and lasting results that help maintain a consistent temperature in your home and reduce the overall stress and strain on your HVAC system.
Water Stains, Musty Odors, or Mold/Mildew on Adjacent Interior Walls
Homeowners may also find signs of siding issues indoors. This includes yellow or brown stains on drywall and persistent musty odors, especially on exterior walls. These issues stem from moisture entering the wall system and can be caused by damaged siding. If left unaddressed, these moisture issues can lead to mold growth, indoor air issues, and more. To prevent water intrusion, have a professional repair the siding.
Peeling or Blistering Paint
Paint on your wood siding or trim may begin to peel, bubble, or blister after the winter. If you notice patches where paint lifts away from the surface, you may have moisture issues. Paint on your siding serves as a protective barrier against rain and snow. When it fails, the siding material can absorb water and experience wood rot or warping. To address these issues, the paint should be removed so the siding can be sanded, primed, and repainted. If wood rot is extensive, sections of siding may need to be replaced.
Soft, Spongy, or Rotted Areas of Siding
If you check your siding after the winter months, it’s important to look for wood rot. Homeowners can press on siding materials to check for soft or spongy spots. Other signs of issue include dark discoloration, crumbling wood, or other visible deterioration. Risks of ignoring wood rot are serious. With the structural integrity of your siding compromised, the damage can allow pests and moisture to enter your home and threaten the structural integrity of your entire wall system. Instead, trust a local contractor to remove and replace damaged siding to protect your home.
Request Siding Services Today
Looking for “siding companies near me?” Trust Freedom Roofing, Windows & Siding for expert siding repair in Ann Arbor and the surrounding areas. Our team offers emergency services and top-quality workmanship to deliver superior care and service. With premium products and a commitment to integrity and respect, our reputation as an A+ BBB-accredited business is what keeps our clients coming back time and time again. Contact our team today to ask about our current special offers.
Looking for “siding repair near me?” Contact Freedom Roofing, Windows & Siding today to schedule with our team.
