If you spot any of the following signs, it’s time to call a local siding repair specialist:
If left unchecked, even small cracks and holes can allow moisture to seep behind your siding, leading to rotting or mold. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent costly problems in the future. Contact Siding Repair Charleston SC now!
Cracks and holes in siding may seem like minor problems, but they can lead to significant damage if left unchecked. Siding acts as a first layer of defense against the elements, so any holes or cracks can expose the home to water or pests. In addition, the gap created by a crack in vinyl or wood siding will eventually widen and may require costly repairs.
Fixing a small crack is fairly easy and can be accomplished using a vinyl patch kit and caulk. First, clean the area and apply a waterproof caulk to seal the crack. Allow the caulk to dry before sanding it and applying a coat of exterior paint that matches your home’s siding.
For larger cracks, it’s best to replace the damaged piece of siding. This repair requires some heavy lifting and a few tools, including a utility knife, zip tool, pry bar, hammer, nails and measuring tape. It’s a good idea to have a helper when performing this repair so one person can lift the replacement piece and another can secure it with nails or screws.
If your vinyl siding is damaged by insect activity or weather, this method is a great way to repair it. First, remove any loose paint with a wire brush or scraper and sand the area. Then, use a cloth rag to wipe away any dirt or debris from the affected area. Apply a solution of mild detergent and warm water to the area to clean the surface. Rinse the area with clean water, making sure not to get the detergent on any areas that aren’t damaged.
Alternatively, you can use a self-adhesive patch to repair larger holes up to two inches in diameter. This method is a bit more involved, but will ensure the repair stays weather-tight and durable. First, cut out the damaged area of siding using a utility knife. Carefully cut away the damaged section, being careful not to puncture the building paper or tar paper underneath. Next, cut out a patch from scrap siding that best matches the color of your home’s exterior. Remove the backing on the lower-surface patch, and adhere it to the hole. Once the patch is firmly in place, use the zip tool to hook it to the siding above. Nail the new patch in place with stainless steel ring-shank nails and finish with a coat of exterior paint to match your siding.
Loose Nails
One of the most common signs of a siding problem is loose sections. Whether from severe weather conditions, age, or improper installation, loose siding can lead to water infiltration, rot, and mold that can threaten the structure of a home. A siding repair professional can ensure that the affected area is secure and properly attached.
A homeowner can also prevent loose siding from occurring by performing regular inspections and taking the necessary steps to keep it in good condition. Inspect the area for signs of deterioration, such as softness or paint peeling, that indicate a need for replacement. Keep trees and bushes trimmed to minimize abrasions, and address foundation or roof issues that could affect the integrity of siding. Washing and reapplication of caulk are other preventative measures to consider.
Wood siding and vinyl siding can wear differently, but both will experience loosening over time due to normal aging. Check for the presence of rot or mold to determine the appropriate course of action. A wood siding repair expert may recommend re-securing the loose section with nails or screws, which will also help to protect the underlying structure. For vinyl, a strong bonding adhesive is often the best option.
Loose sections of siding can also be caused by pests or moisture, and a proper cleaning and maintenance regimen can go a long way to prevent these problems. If a pest infestation is the cause, termite or carpenter ant control measures can make the difference. Moisture infiltration can also result from poor ventilation or drainage, and addressing these issues promptly is key to maintaining the integrity of your home’s siding.
A DIY approach to loose siding is not recommended, as this can be extremely dangerous and can further compromise the structure of your home. In most cases, the best solution is to hire a professional to reattach the loose section and to conduct a thorough inspection of the affected area to ensure that it is aligned properly, securely fastened, and sealed with caulk. After the repair is complete, a homeowner should perform a test by gently pressing on the repaired area to ensure that it is in good condition and will remain stable.
Rattling
If you hear rattling in your siding, it’s probably because one or more of the vinyl planks is loose. This can be quite a nuisance, and it’s best to call in your contractor to address the issue before it worsens.
Siding is a vital element of your home’s exterior, keeping water from seeping into the interior walls and damaging whatever is inside the house. If you notice water stains in the interior wall, or bubbling in paint, these are signs that the siding is no longer doing its job.
Another sign that you need to replace your siding is if the material underlying it is soft and easy to poke into with a screwdriver. This can be a sign of dry rot, which can cause significant damage to the structure of your home. Replacing your rotting siding will not only protect the integrity of your home, but it will also enhance its curb appeal and make it more visually appealing.
Replacing a damaged section of siding is fairly simple, although finding the exact color and texture to match the existing panels may be challenging. The manufacturer of your siding will likely have samples to help, and most hardware stores carry a variety of vinyl siding colors. Once you have the correct replacements, use a zip tool to unlock and remove the damaged panel. Then, measure the space and cut a new piece to ensure proper overlap with the adjoining panels.
While it’s not a good idea to patch up the holes or cracks in your siding with putty, foam, or tape, there are certain situations where replacing the damaged section of vinyl is the only option. For example, if you have a gap in your siding around the window or door, or if the corner posts are loose, these areas require more complex repairs to ensure a seamless appearance. A professional contractor should know how to handle these types of repairs, and they can advise you on whether a full replacement or repair is best for your particular situation. They will also be able to provide you with an estimate for the cost of any work needed.
Peeling Paint
Siding repair is a major undertaking. It’s important to get it done right, though, since minor damage left unaddressed will snowball into a bigger problem, and poor adhesion can lead to wood rot, mold and insect infestation. It’s also a bad look, especially to new homeowners!
It’s possible to paint over peeling vinyl or wood siding, but it’s essential to address the underlying cause first. Moisture, poor wall preparation, incorrect rolling techniques, painting in adverse weather conditions, and even adhesion failure caused by using different primers and paints can all lead to peeling paint. A power tool is ideal for removing serious amounts of peeling paint, but caution is necessary to prevent marring the surface or your skin. Attachments like wire wheels, sandpaper and abrasive flap discs can be used to remove paint and debris quickly without damaging the substrate.
Once the underlying issue is addressed, it’s time to patch and paint. Depending on the material, this may be as simple as a vinyl patch kit and caulk. For wood clapboard or corrugated metal siding, however, you’ll likely need Bondo(r), a putty commonly used in the automotive industry that fills and shrinks, but can be sanded smooth.
Scratches and impact damage to vinyl or wood siding can also be repaired in a variety of ways. For example, you can lightly sand a scratch or impact mark, then touch up the area with an exterior-grade, latex paint. For deeper scratches or gouges, you can use a wood filler or patching compound that is compatible with your siding.
In addition to these common issues, both wood and vinyl can be affected by termites or rodents that chew holes in the surface and can deteriorate the wood underneath. For both, regular inspections and prompt repairs can help to mitigate the damage and extend the life of your siding.