It's easy to forget to consider the outside of your house, but you should monitor your siding. As siding gets older and worn down, it can increase the risk of water damage, pest infestation, and other issues. If left untreated, this can lead to expensive repairs. If you would like to know more about siding and when to replace your siding, keep reading.

What Are the Signs Your Siding Needs Replacement?

Most signs your siding needs replacement are going to be visible. This may include cracked, warped, rotting, or rusted siding (depending on the material). Blisters and bubbles may indicate that water has already penetrated the siding. Water may also promote the growth of mold, fungus, and mildew, and UV rays from the sun can fade and weaken the siding, making it more brittle.

Another leading sign that you need new siding is higher energy bills. Your siding helps prevent the transfer of heat, which prevents heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. As your siding gets old or damaged, it becomes less efficient, causing your energy bills to rise.

What Is the Best Type of Siding?

There is no best siding in general, but there is an ideal type of siding for your needs and wants. If you want something low maintenance, consider vinyl. Vinyl doesn't need to be painted and can't rot or warp. It is more prone to color fading, and vinyl is hard to paint. However, vinyl boards can be made to copy the style of natural wood.

Wood siding provides a traditional and beautiful style. Plus, there are lots of types of wood siding, such as shingles, clapboards, shakes, and much more. Wood can easily be painted and/or stained, so you can change the style whenever you want. However, if you don't keep the wood protected, it can develop rot or pests.

How Much Does Replacement Siding Cost?

The cost of replacement siding largely depends on the material used and the size of your house. In general, however, vinyl siding costs less than $1 per square foot, and installation costs $2 to $7 per square foot. For a project of 1,250 exterior square feet, you could spend up to $8,750. Wood, however, is more expensive, so the same project would cost up to $10,000.

Replacement siding is an important consideration, especially if your siding is getting old and worn. It's an investment in your house that will add value and better protect your home. If you would like to know more, contact a siding provider in your area today—such as Meschke Construction, Inc.

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