Have you been looking at your home’s siding lately? There may be some signs it’s time to call local siding contractors. Unfortunately, most people have no idea how to tell their siding is damaged or needs to be replaced. Here are 17 things to keep an eye out for so you know when to call in the professionals for new siding.

1. Cracks and Gaps

One of the earliest signs your siding needs replacement is cracks and gaps starting to form. Over time, the elements take their toll on even the hardest vinyl or wood. You may notice cracks around windows, corners, and anywhere two pieces meet. Gaps also allow air and moisture inside, which can damage the wall underneath. When these issues start, it’s a good idea to get estimates from local siding contractors before further damage occurs.

2. Loose or Rotted Panels

If individual panels no longer seem securely attached and can be moved with gentle pressure, it’s time for replacement. Rotting is another red flag, as wet wood allows mold and mildew to grow under the siding. Get a professional evaluation; siding contractors can determine if just those panels or a full replacement is needed. Early repair prevents expensive water damage down the road.

3. Dented or Worn Surfaces

Hail damage, cracks, and general wear and tear over the years may leave your siding dented, worn, or damaged-looking. Cosmetic issues on their own aren’t cause for replacement, but if a significant part of the surface is damaged, it’s a good idea to contact local siding contractors and explore upgrade options. Fresh new siding can transform the look of your home’s exterior. According to a survey from Alside, 53% of American homeowners have had new siding installed in their homes at some point.

4. Flaking, Peeling, or Fading

If the outer layer of paint, stain, or other protective coating is starting to flake or peel away from the underlying material, it’s a clear sign your siding needs attention. This will allow water to seep in, increasing the risk of rot and costly repairs down the line. Fading, especially uneven fading, is another warning flag that resurfacing may soon be needed. Ask local siding contractors about refinishing or full replacement options.

5. Insect or Pest Damage

While not all signs of insect activity require immediate siding replacement, major damage is a red flag. Look for termite frass or patterns of holes from woodpeckers that penetrate the siding. Moisture often follows, which can lead to failure if not addressed promptly. Consult with pest management pros and get estimates from local siding companies on refurbishing or replacement needs.

6. Warping, Bulging, or Bowing

If large sections of siding seem wavy, bowed, or pulled away from walls, it’s a clear warning sign moisture has accumulated behind the material, leading to deterioration. Rot usually underlies dramatic warping like this. While siding contractors may be able to replace just the worst sections, it’s wise to consider a full system replacement to avoid ongoing moisture issues.

7. Temperature Sensitivity

Does your siding seem to change shape with changes in humidity and temperature? This indicates the material has broken down to the point it can no longer adequately shed water. Excess moisture will speed decay and compromise structural components. Reputable siding contractors can evaluate options from refinishing to full replacement.

8. Missing or Detached Sections

Pieces of siding completely missing, fallen off, or barely hanging on are signs things have gone past a simple repair phase. Detached panels leave the wall exposed to rain, sunlight, insects, and all the damage they can cause. Call local siding contractors for a full replacement consultation before that section spreads or causes harm to other areas.

9. General Aging Signs

Along with noticeable visible signs like the above, just the age of your siding is a factor to consider. Most vinyl and aluminum siding carries a 30 to 50-year lifespan estimate, while wood siding may last 15 to 30 years depending on coverage and upkeep, based on our experience. If installed at original construction and nearing or past typical age limits, siding contractors can evaluate if replacement is needed due to material failure risks, or if refurbishing may extend the life some years more.

10. Increased Drafts, Airflow, or Noise

Over time, aging siding can lose its ability to serve as an effective barrier against airflow, noise pollution, and temperature fluctuations. If you notice increased wind noise, drafts felt around windows and doors, or temperature changes that seem more dramatic inside, it’s likely small cracks have formed, compromising the seal. Siding contractors can check for and seal areas letting excess air penetrate before further damage occurs.

11. Integrated Window and Trim Issues

Siding, trim work, gutters, roof lining, and windows all work together as a unified system protecting the home. If other envelope elements like windows show age signs, it may indicate wider underlying issues with moisture management your siding is no longer handling properly. Talking to local siding contractors about an integrated remodel approach can make the most of your investment and structural integrity as a whole.

12. Discoloration

Sun exposure may cause your siding to fade, discolor unevenly, or develop sunspots that stand out against other areas. This UV deterioration reduces the material’s ability to withstand water damage. Siding contractors can evaluate if refinishing products could restore it, or if replacement may be the more durable option.

13. Water Stains or Splashes

Visible water or mold stains concentrated in one area typically means water penetrates that spot. Splash-up marks low on walls may indicate inadequate coverage that allows water intrusion when it rains. Reputable siding contractors have the expertise to trace sources and advise on repairs.

14. Fastener or Joint Issues

Inspect your siding’s nail and screw lines for rust trails or deteriorating seams between panels. These are entry points for moisture that can bypass the material. Loose or missing fasteners leave the siding prone to damage in storms. Local siding contractors offer simple fixes but may advise replacement for compromised areas.

15. Interior Damage Signs

If you notice bubbling, peeling paint, or warped flooring/drywall inside near the outer walls, it signals water has penetrated your siding from the exterior. More extensive mold or rot requires immediate correction to avoid health/structural risks. Trust siding contractors to fully remedy the problem areas.

16. Reduced Energy Efficiency

Older siding materials allow more air leakage, which increases energy bills. If you’ve noticed higher climate control costs even after other efficiency upgrades, aging siding could be the culprit. Reputable local siding contractors can perform an inspection and air leakage test to determine if a replacement makes sense.

17. Scratches and Dents

Small surface scratches and minor dents may be purely cosmetic at first. Over time, these defects allow greater water seepage. Keep an eye out, especially for overlapping patterns of scratches that could indicate underlying issues. Consult siding contractors once defects become numerous to catch problems before expensive moisture damage arises.

Of course, no single mark necessarily requires new siding outright, but when multiple signs indicate compromised protective abilities, advanced aging, or damage, it’s usually wise to consider a full replacement. Catching needs early avoids expensive repairs down the line and ensures your home is fortified for years to come without headaches from water issues sneaking in. Contact Eenigenburg Exteriors to have your siding professionally inspected to determine if new siding is warranted.