Siding isn’t just about curb appeal. Sure, it makes your home look sharp from the street, but its real job is protection. Your siding is your home’s first line of defense against wind, rain, sun, insects, and whatever else Mother Nature throws at it. It also plays a critical role in insulation and energy efficiency.
Like anything else on your home’s exterior, siding doesn’t last forever. So, how can you tell if your siding is doing its job - or if it’s time for a little TLC? In this brief article brought to you by your local handymen at Mr. Handyman, we offer our two cents on the matter.
If you'd rather have a trained and experienced handyman inspect your siding and make necessary repairs, then call or message Mr. Handyman to get in touch. We're happy to schedule a convenient appointment or arrange urgent assistance for as soon as possible.
What Good Siding Should Be Doing
First, let’s clarify what siding is supposed to do:
- Shield your home from moisture: Rain, snow, and humidity should bounce right off quality siding.
- Block pests: Well-installed siding keeps out insects and rodents.
- Insulate the structure: Siding plays a big role in keeping your heating and cooling inside where it belongs.
- Breathe: Good siding lets moisture escape from inside the walls so it doesn’t turn into mold or rot.
- Look great: Let’s be honest — faded, warped, or cracked siding brings down your home’s entire appearance.
Signs Your Siding Isn’t Pulling Its Weight
Many red signs are in-your-face, but some are more subtle. Here are some of the top warning signs we see out in the field — and what they might mean for your home:
- Cracks and Holes: Even small cracks can let water seep in or give insects a way inside. If your siding has splits, holes, or places where the material looks “chipped away,” its protection is lacking.
- Warping or Bubbling: When siding warps, bows, or forms bubbles, you can be sure that moisture has gotten underneath. This often means rot, mold, or deeper damage behind the walls as well.
- Faded or Discolored Patches: UV damage often leads to brittle and weakened boards. If it looks chalky or uneven, it may be breaking down faster than you think.
- Peeling Paint or Water Stains Inside: Like warping and bubbling, these symptoms can indicate moisture in the siding.
- High Energy Bills: If your heating and cooling bills are climbing without explanation, worn or damaged siding could be letting your climate-controlled air slip right out.
Pro Tips to Make Your Siding Last Longer
Our mission at Mr. Handyman is to make sure everyone in our community is living their best life. To this end, we offer quality and affordable handyman services as well as tips and guidance. Here are a few ways you can get more life out of your siding and catch issues early:
