Home siding is more than an aesthetic feature, but many homeowners know very little about it. It’s important to understand it to know how to care for it. Below are all the details you should know to keep your home protected year-round.

How Does Siding Protect a Home?

It is the primary barrier between your house and Mother Nature, preventing rain, snow, hail, and other elements from affecting the structure’s building materials. 

Heat and cold cause the particles in wood and other materials to expand and contract throughout the year. Siding keeps the joints in the structure covered throughout frost-thaw cycles, improving insulation and preventing pest infiltration.

When Should You Get Siding Replacement?

Like all materials, siding has a finite life span because of the wear and tear it sustains over time. There are several signs that indicate that panels should be replaced. Cracks, warping, and rot mean that moisture has penetrated the layer beneath the surface, increasing the risk of water damage and mold growth inside the property. This problem is often accompanied by bubbles on panels.

Mold and mildew on siding can often be cleaned with a pressure-washer or tough sponge. However, if stains reappear, the outer layer of the siding doesn’t keep out moisture effectively.

The average panel lasts between 20 to 40 years. If you’re nearing that point, or if panels are fading and requiring more frequent painting, upgrade your home exterior.

If you need siding replacement, turn to the trusted contractors at Purpose Driven Restoration & Remodeling in Elk River, MN. Serving Eleven County and the metropolitan area of Minneapolis, they are certified installers of LP® Smartside® siding and carry insulated vinyl products. They help homeowners choose materials based on their aesthetic preferences, budgets, and needs. Call (877) 725-4737 to discuss a project, or visit their website to learn more about their work with this part of the home.