December 24, 2021
What Affects Siding's Lifespan
Siding plays a vital role in protecting your home’s exterior from inclement weather such as snow, rain, strong winds, and heat. By adding an extra layer between the elements and your home’s exterior, siding helps to reduce monthly energy bills. It also gives your house a classic look, thereby enhancing its curb appeal.
How Long Does Siding Last?
Siding can last anywhere from 20 to 50 years or more, depending on the siding material, your climate, quality of installation, and your maintenance routine. For instance, siding in areas with strong winds, heavy precipitation, and subzero temperatures won’t last as long as it would in more favorable weather conditions. A well-maintained siding will, of course, last longer than neglected siding. Proper siding maintenance involves regular cleaning, routine inspection, and painting the surface as needed
The quality of installation also affects siding’s lifespan. Poorly installed siding is more vulnerable to the elements, especially in areas with heavy precipitation. On the other hand, correct installation prolongs the lifespan of your siding. That’s why it’s important to hire an experienced siding installation company to install your siding.
Common Siding Materials and Their Lifespan
- Vinyl Siding—This type of siding is primarily made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resin. Some of the benefits of vinyl siding include cost-effectiveness, easier maintenance, and better resistance against bugs and extreme temperatures. Vinyl siding can last anywhere from 20-40 years.
- Fiber Cement Siding—This is arguably the longest-lasting type of siding with a rated lifespan of up to 60 years if installed properly and well maintained. To enjoy fiber cement siding's beauty and functionality for a lifetime, ensure you perform a visual inspection at least twice a year to check for signs of damage. You should also wash the exterior surfaces at least every six months with a garden hose.
- Wood Siding—The expected lifespan of wood siding is around 40 years. However, engineered wood siding can last up to 50 years. The key to long-lasting and beautiful wood siding is regular cleaning, performing a visual inspection at least twice a year, and re-treating the surface every 2-5 years.
- Metal Siding—This type of siding can last anywhere from 20 years to 60 years, depending on the type of metal and many other factors. For instance, steel siding can last up to 60 years provided it is coated and installed the right way. Aluminum siding is expected to last between 40 to 50 years. However, metal siding may give your house an industrial look which may not be aesthetically pleasing for many homeowners. Besides, metal siding can suffer dents over time.
Signs You Need New Siding
- Your siding is over 60 years old
- Frequent need for paint
- Dents, chips, and cracks
- Skyrocketing bills
- Missing siding pieces
- Storm damage
- Termite damage or fungal decay
If you notice any of these signs, look for an experienced handyman to help you with siding replacement.
If you’re in need of a dependable handyman to help you with siding replacement in your home or business, call Beall Contracting to help you.