Your home’s siding does more than make your house look pretty; it’s like the armor of your castle, shielding you and your family from whatever nature throws your way. But as tough as your siding is, the elements have a way of sneaking in their sucker punches. Learn how weather damages your siding to spot issues early and keep your home looking and functioning at its best.
1. Hail Damage
When hailstones tumble from the sky, they do more than tap the side of your home. Depending on their size and speed, hail can cause dents, cracks, holes, and other common signs of hail damage. These issues aren’t just cosmetic; cracks in your siding expose the underlayers of your home to moisture, leading to a whole new set of headaches, such as water damage.
After a hailstorm, give your siding a once-over. Look for visible dents or cracks, and pay close attention to vulnerable areas like corners. If you spot damage, don’t wait. Contact a siding professional for repairs to avoid further harm.
2. Wind Damage
Strong winds have an uncanny ability to turn your siding into a kite. Winds loosen panels, rip siding pieces straight off your home, and even warp them, leaving your house looking patchy and vulnerable to further weather woes. It doesn’t take a hurricane to cause major damage; your average gusty day can gradually weaken siding that’s already compromised.
Keep an eye out for siding panels that look misaligned or are flapping around like they’re about to take flight. Reinforce or replace loose pieces as soon as possible.
3. Sun Damage
The sun offers fun times for you and your family, but when it comes to your home, that burning ball may lead to eventual repairs. Powerful UV rays fade or warp your siding like it’s been left in a tanning bed for too long, especially on south-facing walls.
Consider investing in UV-resistant siding materials if you’re installing new panels or adding a protective coating to existing siding. If fading is already an issue, professional cleaning or even a fresh coat of paint brings back some of your siding’s original charm.
4. Temperature Swings
Temperature shifts—like a superhot day that quickly turns chilly—may cause your siding to expand and contract. Over time, this repeated movement leads to cracks, warping, or stressed seams. Most modern siding accounts for temperature changes, but if you notice cracks that seem to appear out of nowhere, it’s worth investigating.
From hail to sunshine, the weather damages your siding in many ways. A little attention and regular inspections go a long way in keeping it looking fresh and functional. Stay ahead of these issues to save stress and maintain your curb appeal.
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