Like other critical components of your home, such as the roof, siding is your home’s first line of defense against the elements and is built to last. With continuous exposure to extreme weather events, siding eventually wears out or gets damaged and will need to be replaced.
Cracks, rot, gaping holes, mold, mildew, rust, or discoloration can all make your home look aged and weathered. Damaged siding can also ruin your home’s curb appeal and reduce its value. So, if you’re considering siding replacement to keep your house looking as good as new, you will need to choose between various material options, including vinyl and fiber cement. Here is an overview of how to determine the lifespan of siding materials.
1. Determining the Lifespan of Your Siding
When figuring out the lifespan of your existing siding, you should first know how old it is. Having a record of the original installation date is the easiest way to tell your siding’s age. If you can’t remember the date or recently moved into a home with siding of unknown age, it can be difficult to tell with certainty the current age of your siding.
Overall, siding materials installed 10 to 20 years ago – or earlier – are not of the same quality as today’s siding options. Vinyl siding has been used in home construction and remodeling since the 1950s, but the quality has drastically improved over the years. Today’s siding materials are generally more durable, weather-resistant, and offer better insulation value than older models.
2. Siding Materials and Their Lifespan
The lifespan of siding also varies by its material. Generally, quality vinyl siding can last 20-40 years, depending on its specific quality and the climate. Fiber cement siding, on the other hand, offers high durability and can last as long as 50 years.
Both siding materials require minimal maintenance, but fiber cement can often be repainted after a few years to enhance curb appeal. To know how much life your siding has left, find out when the siding was installed and compare it against the projected lifespan.
3. The Condition of the Siding
Another reliable way to determine your siding age and tell if it’s due for replacement is to observe the siding’s condition. Here are some warning signs to look out for:
- Rot – If you see rot spreading across a wide area of your vinyl or fiber cement siding, it may be time for a replacement.
- Cracks/gaps – Cracks or holes in your siding can jeopardize the structural integrity of your home. Schedule siding replacement as soon as possible.
- Moisture and mold – If you see signs of moisture and mold damage inside your home, it is sometimes an indicator of damaged siding.
In some instances, your siding may need a quality coat of paint instead of extensive repair work or replacement. However, extensive damage often makes it harder and more costly to repair.
Choose Allstate Exteriors for Siding Installation
Allstate Exteriors offers high-quality siding installation, repair, and replacement throughout Central Ohio. We specialize in a broad range of siding materials, including fiber cement, wood, aluminum, and vinyl. Depending on your siding’s overall condition, we will carry out a thorough assessment and recommend appropriate repairs or replacement. Contact us today for a free estimate!
