Have you been noticing some weird things going on with your siding? It’s normal to start seeing some wear and tear as your home ages. But if you’re seeing any of the following signs, it might be time for a wood rot replacement.
Replacing your siding is a significant investment that can add value and protection to your home. But before you consider a wood rot replacement, here are the 5 signs to know:
1. Cracked, Split, or Sagging Wood
Cracks and splits in the wood on your siding surface indicate that water is squeezing its way through. That can be a sign of wood rot, which means that the siding has become softened and de-laminated (water seeps into the material and separates it from itself). You need to address the wood rot issue immediately when this happens because water can spread in your wood siding.
Siding replacement is necessary to prevent further damage and ensure that your house is adequately protected from any additional moisture.
2. Curled Siding
Similar to split or cracked siding, if your siding starts to curl under its weight instead of outwards, it’s an indication that the water is trapped between the wood and your sheathing. This can lead to extensive damage to the structure of your home.
If you have curled siding, you need to replace it as soon as possible before the rot spreads.
3. Discoloration or Discolored Lines On Siding
It’s not uncommon for aluminum or vinyl siding to fade over time. But if your painted wood siding is starting to turn white in some areas, particularly near the bottom of your exterior walls, your wood rot has probably gotten pretty bad.
As mentioned earlier, untreated wood can be susceptible to rotting if exposed long enough to moisture and wind. If this happens on any of your home’s exterior wood surfaces, get it checked out by a professional immediately. Don’t wait until the water starts leaking into your house before considering a wood rot replacement.
4. Brown Spots on Wood Siding
Brown or black spots on your home’s exterior wood could be a sign of either mold or mildew. Either way, it indicates that you need to do something about the moisture behind your siding.
If it’s due to an excess of water trapped between your wood siding and sheathing, then you should consider having the area treated for rot before it gets worse. If not, then contact a siding contractor to figure out precisely what kind of mold you’re dealing with and how best to handle it moving forward.
5. Dents, Holes, or Missing Wood Sections
As wood is exposed to water over time, its exterior will begin to warp and show signs of decay. This means that large dents or holes should be considered an indication that there’s probably wood rot happening elsewhere on your exterior.
And if you’ve got missing sections of your home’s siding, it probably means the surrounding areas are also damaged and need to be replaced or repaired soon.
Wood Rot Replacement Options
There are many options for siding available today, making it a lot easier for homeowners to find a replacement that meets their style and budget. Here are the options for your rotting wood siding:
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is another affordable and easy-to-maintain replacement option that comes in various textures and colors. It’s also highly durable and long-lasting. Some choose to paint directly over it, making it an excellent choice for those looking for their wood rot replacement to blend in with the rest of their siding seamlessly.
Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber cement siding is an excellent choice for those who want a modern and low-maintenance exterior design. It also requires very little maintenance, which will hold up for years without frequent painting or staining. This makes it a popular wood rot replacement option that gives your home a fresh look with minimal work from the homeowner.
Aluminum Siding
If you’re trying to mimic the look of your old wood siding, then aluminum might be the right choice for you. It’s available in various profiles and textures to easily mimic any exterior design you desire.
Metal Siding
If you’re looking for a new exterior siding option that requires minimal maintenance and will hold up against any weather conditions, then metal would be a good choice. It’s available in many different textures and colors so that it can fit seamlessly with your home’s design.
Whether you need wood rot replacement for your entire house or just some of the exterior siding, you’ll be able to easily find a replacement option that matches your style and budget.
Wood Rot Replacement Cost
The cost of your wood rot replacement will depend on the type you need and the size and scope of the project. To get the exact quote you need, contact a contractor who can come to your home and inspect it for you before providing an estimate.
Depending on the type of siding replacement option you choose, this cost might be higher or lower than other exterior work you’ve done before.
Conclusion
If you notice any of these five signs on your home’s exterior wood siding, then we would recommend making a wood rot replacement before it gets worse. Not only will this keep your home protected from damage, but it could also mean lower utility bills over time since your exterior walls will be better insulated against the weather.
Once you’ve made a final decision on what type of siding replacement option is best for you and your home’s needs, then your home should be ready for years of protection and beauty.