Maintaining your siding doesn’t take a lot of work but there are some things you should do to keep it looking and functioning great. This will ensure a long-lasting life span for your home, keep costly repairs at bay and keep your annual upkeep tasks to a minimum. Without regular maintenance, your siding won’t look as attractive as it could, diminishing its curb appeal and value. Plus, you may find yourself replacing or repairing your siding much sooner than you should.

Here, we’ve broken out siding maintenance tips by material for your convenience.

Vinyl

Vinyl siding doesn’t need a whole lot of maintenance work but if a piece decides to come loose, you need to get it repaired right away. If it flaps in the wind, gets bent or starts to curve, you won’t be able to re-apply it. It’s also wise to have your siding power washed once a year to get the dirt and grime off. Hire a professional, as too much pressure applied by an inexperienced homeowner can result in costly and permanent damage. 

Wood

While it offers a traditional look for your home, wood comes with more maintenance than vinyl. You’ll have to treat it every four to six years, maybe more often here in Massachusetts where we see a lot of snow, wind, ice and rain.

When it comes to repairs, cracks and holes must be addressed immediately, as they can allow moisture and pests to get in. Always make sure the underlying problem is fixed before you repair the siding, or the same problem could come back to haunt you later. Some repair issues may include re-nailing loose sheathing, replacing rotting elements and patching holes or gaps.

Fiber Cement

Fiber cement costs a bit more to install initially, but you will reap the rewards year after year as you’re faced with little maintenance requirements. At some point, you will need to repaint the fiber cement boards to restore their luster. While this material is very moisture resistant, it can still be affected by condensation, leaks, warping and mold. At the time of installation, contractors apply a waterproof sealant or silicone caulk at the joints, which you should inspect the condition of annually. Add caulking as needed.

Contact Hi-Tech Windows & Siding

If you would like a free, no-obligation consultation on siding and possibility of replacement, contact us at 800-851-0900. We are your premier experts in fiber cement, vinyl and cedar shake siding.