Your home’s vinyl siding is far more than a cosmetic feature. It also protects the integrity of your property. The material prevents such issues as moisture intrusion and mold formation, and it can even help regulate your indoor temperatures. However, it can only perform its job if it’s in top condition. When performing periodic inspections, be on the lookout for these five signs of damage.

How to Tell If Your Siding Is Damaged

1. Blistering

Older homes with aging vinyl siding may suffer from blistering—a bubbling effect—after years of exposure to harsh ultraviolet rays and freezing temperatures. While new vinyl is considerably more durable and can withstand inclement conditions easily, the same cannot be said for older material.

2. Denting

Surface imperfections of all kinds are causes for concern, but you should be mindful of anything that resembles a dent or a crack, in particular. This type of damage is usually the result of hail, and it can prevent the siding from behaving as it normally would to protect your home in the face of heavy rainfall and snow.

3. Repainting

Think about how often you’ve painted or stained your home in the past few years. Whether you’re tired of the existing color or you haven’t had time to replace it, now is the time to invest in new vinyl. Select a modern hue that elevates your curb appeal and saves money that you would otherwise put to repeated staining or painting.

4. Inefficiency

If you find you’re suddenly paying more in heating and cooling costs than before, it could indicate problematic siding. There could be openings in the vinyl causing air to leak, in turn forcing the HVAC system to work even harder to heat or cool the home year-round. That, coupled with old or thin insulation, can cause costs to skyrocket.

5. Mold

It’s alarming to discover mold on the interior walls, but even if the siding looks fine outside, it could indicate a moisture intrusion problem. When water seeps into the structure, it can cause more than fungus concerns; it can also weaken structural wood, which could rot over time and cause potential damage to a larger portion of the house.

Are you concerned about the condition of your vinyl siding? Turn to the professionals at Countywide Roofing in Lorain County, OH. Proudly serving homeowners for more than 25 years, the company holds an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau® and is committed to providing flawless service from start to finish. They also offer roofing repairs, restoration, and installation, along with gutter inspections and masonry services. Visit them online to learn more, or call (440) 246-3328 to request an estimate.