With all of the ice, snow, and rain this winter it’s important to inspect your siding for any damage. Wood siding is a naturally porous material, which means it can absorb large amounts of moisture over time and ultimately not protect your home. Updating worn, cracked wood or Masonite siding with Lakeside Renovation & Design can increase the value of your home and the curb appeal. Check out these five reasons to update your wood or Masonite siding.
Swelling and Warping
Small amounts of moisture can cause severe damage to your siding. Planks can pull away from your home and bend, causing mold to grow in that space and spread to other areas. Although moisture can cause the siding to warp and bend, dry climates can have the same impact. The siding can dry out and shrink, resulting in exposed areas which air can escape. Energy efficient siding can reduce air leaks and lower your energy bill.
Low Durability
Siding is your home’s first defense against the elements and should withstand a strong storm. When moisture gets trapped in wood and Masonite siding, it can soften and crumble. Deteriorating planks leaves your home susceptible to further foundational damage. Replace your siding with a more durable product and reduce future maintenance costs.
Expensive Repairs
Wood and Masonite will leave you worrying about the constant upkeep of your home. Wood planks consistently chip, crack, and need to be stained or painted. Because Masonite repeatedly peels, you are required to caulk and repaint multiple times to prevent rot and mold damage. On average, it costs over $3,000 to repaint the exterior of a home. If you repaint every three to seven years, the costs will add up. These ineffective repairs will most likely end up costing you more than replacing your siding and cause further foundational issues.
Short Life Span
Durable, high-quality siding should last a lifetime. Masonite and wood will lose their ability to protect your home from the elements a few years after installation. It is important to routinely check your siding for crumbling or cracking. If you are truly worried about your siding it would be wise to replace the entire exterior of your home with fiber cement siding.
Insect Infestations
Bare, rotted or exposed siding is an open invitation for termites and other pests to make themselves at home. There are many factors that contribute to how quickly termites can eat your house. In some cases, the damage is so significant that areas of your home need to be completely remodeled and repaired.
Outdated siding can cause numerous headaches from mold to complete deterioration. James Hardie® is engineered to withstand various climates, pests, and typical wearing. Once James Hardie® siding is installed you will have little to no maintenance, saving you time and money. It’s time to put down the tools and end your frustration. Lakeside Renovation & Design is the top James Hardie Elite Preferred Remodeler in the St. Louis region, and we are also ranked top 3 James Hardie Installer in the nation. Contact us today for a free consultation and protect your home from future damage.
