When to Replace Wood Siding: 9 Signs It’s Time

When to Replace Wood Siding: 9 Signs It’s Time

Wood siding on a home looks beautiful until it starts to deteriorate. If you notice rot, cracks, insect infestation, or the need to repaint it frequently, it may be time to replace your wood siding. Ignoring the warning signs of deterioration can cause major issues and even structural damage. Look for the 9 signs that it’s time to replace that old wood siding: 

1. Wood Siding with Mold, Mildew, or Fungus 

Moisture can wreak havoc and cause damaging mold, mildew, and fungus. These unsightly growths are an indication that moisture is penetrating your wood. If you see brown, black, green, or red spots on your exterior paint, look closely. It may be mold! Especially if your siding doesn’t get enough direct sunlight or is covered in climbing vines, mold, mildew, and fungus will have plenty of moisture to grow. Ignoring the situation can cause more extensive damage. 

2. Blisters or Bubbles on Your Wood Siding 

Bubbles and blisters indicate that water has become trapped beneath the paint and might cause damage. In the best case, the water evaporates. But that water can also cause lasting damage. Have an expert inspect your wood siding before it begins to rot. 

3. Wood Slats Have Come Loose or Gone Missing 

Wow! If the siding starts to fall off your house, it’s time to replace it. A few pieces of siding that become loose can indicate that more will follow. Again, an inspection can reveal what the problem is, but you need to protect your home as soon as possible. Missing slats will allow moisture to damage both the exterior and the interior of your home. 

4. Cracks and Bulges 

If you notice a lot of cracks or your siding is warped and bulging, it could be a sign that deterioration has started. Gaps in wood siding allow moisture, mold, and pests to eat away at the structure of your home.  

5. Faded Wood Siding That Requires Frequent Painting 

Even top-quality wood siding needs regular maintenance and painting. But if you find you are painting more often than you used to, it may be because paint can no longer properly adhere to your old wood siding. Before you replace wood with wood, consider all your options. 

6. Evidence of Rotting  

Wood that feels wet, flaky, or spongy to the touch are signs that it has been significantly compromised. It’s beyond time to replace. The structural integrity of your home could be at risk. 

7. Insect Infestation  

That woodpecker pecking at your siding isn’t taping hello, hello. He’s more likely there to get at ants and termites feasting on the rotting wood of your home. At any sign of an infestation, contact an expert to conduct a thorough examination of your home’s exterior. Before it’s too late! 

8. Your Energy Bills Have Increased 

There are many reasons why your energy bills could increase. Sure, gas and oil prices are up, but if you feel drafts around walls, windows, switches, and electric plugs, that bill is probably higher than it needs to be! Your siding may not be insulating well due to deterioration. This causes your home to lose heat in the winter and cold in the summer. New siding will help to eliminate drafts and save you money on heating and cooling costs.  

9. The Wood Siding is Over 50 Years Old 

Wait, how old is your siding?!?! Wood siding doesn’t last forever. If your siding is reaching the 50-year mark, even if you don’t notice signs of deterioration, it may be time to replace it.   

Replacing Wood Siding 

Are you ready to replace your old wood siding? Wood for wood is not your only option. You can choose maintenance free sidings such as composite or vinyl that will look beautiful and last long.  

Want to learn more? NOW Remodeling in Spokane and Richland, Washington and Boise, Idaho uses James Hardie, Alside, and ProVia siding that come in a range of colors and styles. And we are Preferred Installers of all three which means we meet the manufacturer’s high standards for installer training, insurance, and licensing. Request an inspection or your free quote today.