Siding protects your house from rain, snow, wind and extreme temperatures. Like any other part of your home’s exterior, the siding is susceptible to damage. Here are some tips on how to prevent problems this summer.
Clean the Siding
Getting rid of dirt and grime can help keep your siding in good shape. Once you’ve cleaned the siding, you’ll be able to spot issues, address them and prevent more serious problems in the future.
If your home has vinyl siding, the cleaning process is simple and straightforward. You can use soap and water to remove dirt, dust, pollen and other contaminants from the surface. The process will be a bit different with other types of siding.
You might be able to use a pressure washer to save time. Use the lowest setting that will get the job done, being careful not to spray water under the siding. If you aren’t sure how to clean your siding, or if you don’t know if it’s safe to use a pressure washer, consult the manufacturer’s website.
Check for Damage
Look for siding panels that are cracked, loose or otherwise damaged. Soft spots can indicate that the siding has suffered moisture damage. Exposure to intense sunlight can cause vinyl siding to fade or make sections of siding warp and melt.
Insect damage is another common issue that homeowners encounter. Insects can burrow underneath siding and damage insulation and other materials.
It’s important to repair or replace damaged siding as soon as possible to prevent further problems. Summer storms often bring driving rain and strong winds. If water gets underneath your siding, it can lead to mold, mildew and rot. If you notice signs of an insect infestation, you might need to hire a professional to deal with it so you don’t wind up with even worse damage in the future.
Protect Your Siding From Intense Sunlight
Energy-efficient windows help homeowners save money on their utility bills, but those windows sometimes cause problems for people living next door. If sunlight reflects off your neighbor’s window, a concentrated beam of heat can get directed at your house and cause your siding to melt.
If you find yourself in that situation, address the issue at its source. You can ask your neighbor to install a screen or an awning over the window or plant a tree or bush between your houses. That will reduce the amount of sunlight that reaches the window and gets reflected toward your house. Once you’ve taken steps to deal with the cause of the problem, you can replace your damaged siding.
