The right siding can enhance your home’s appearance and give it some serious curb appeal. But over time, exposure to wind, rain, sun, and other climatic elements may damage your home’s siding, a material that’s applied to the exterior for protection from the elements, dirt, moisture, and bugs. Damaged siding can expose your home to water damage, pests, mold, or rot. Replacing siding that’s rotting or in disrepair is important to preserve your home's integrity and structure. Here's what to consider when you’re thinking about replacing your siding.
When to Replace Siding: 5 Factors to Consider
Here are five ways to tell if it’s time to replace your siding:
#1 Visible Damage and Decay
Visible signs your siding needs replacing include cracks, holes, warping, peeling paint, and missing or misaligned pieces. These issues often result from prolonged exposure to weather conditions such as intense sunlight, heavy rain, or freezing temperatures. As siding ages, it becomes more susceptible to these elements. That leads to visible damage that compromises the way your home’s exterior looks and functions. Small cracks and holes can worsen over time if neglected and can host unwanted critters.
#2 High Maintenance Costs
Frequent repairs and repainting can be expensive. The ongoing expense of patching and cleaning old or damaged siding can add up quickly, so replacement can be more cost-effective in the long run. If you find yourself frequently repairing your siding, your home’s exterior may need more than a Band-Aid. Investing in new siding can cut maintenance costs and increase your home's value, according to the National Association of REALTORS® "2022 Remodeling Impact Report.“ Vinyl siding recovered an estimated 82% of the cost spent. Repairing existing siding can be an effective quick fix if you're dealing with localized damage, but replacement is better when the wear and tear spans the home exterior.
#3 Energy Efficiency Concerns
Worn-out siding can cause significant energy loss, leading to higher utility bills. Cracks and gaps in deteriorating siding allow hot and cold air to escape, which makes your home less energy efficient. If you’ve seen a sharp increase in your energy bills or you’re paying much more than your neighbors for utilities, inspect your siding for cracks and holes. A more modern replacement siding option designed to improve insulation and energy efficiency could help keep your home cozy in the winter and cool in the summer while bringing down your energy bills.
#4 Mold, Mildew, and Rot
Moisture seeping through damaged siding can lead to mold growth and wood rot. These issues not only pose health risks but can also compromise your home’s structural integrity. Mold in the home may cause wheezing, coughing, running nose, and other allergic reactions. In the long term, residents and homeowners could experience long-term respiratory problems and other health issues if the problem goes unresolved. Similarly, wood rot weakens your home's wooden framework, including roof decking, support beams, and posts. If the damage goes unchecked, it could lead to costly repairs.
#5 Fading Color and Outdated Appearance
A pleasing color and appearance to your siding is vital to your home’s overall look. On top of that, any element that contributes to your home’s exterior could affect its marketability and curb appeal.
Unfortunately, the sun's UV rays can cause siding color to fade, making your home look drab and neglected. Fading color detracts from your home's curb appeal and can lower its resale value. Updating your home's siding makes it more beautiful inside and out. Not only can it help improve your home's market value, but it also can make your home a more pleasing and safe place to live. Replacement siding is like a new coat: It looks good and keeps your body warm.
Exploring Siding Replacement Options
Once you've examined your choices and determined you need a replacement, there are different siding options to consider. Your budget, climate, and preferred material will impact your siding selection.
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is durable, low-maintenance, and cost-effective at just $5 to $9 per square foot. Insulated vinyl siding offers more energy efficiency. If you live in a rainy or humid area, vinyl siding could be a worthwhile choice, since it won't rot or absorb moisture. However, vinyl may warp or crack in hot or freezing temperatures. So, if you live in a desert climate or a zone where you need to winterize your home, vinyl siding won’t be the best choice.
Engineered Wood Siding
Engineered wood is another low-cost siding option, priced at $4 to $7 per square foot. It's made of wood fibers compressed with resin, making it a strong and durable choice for most climate conditions. It requires less maintenance than solid wood siding and better tolerates temperature changes, moisture, and freeze-thaw cycles.
Stone Veneer Siding
Stone veneer siding gives your home a natural, textured look. This alternative is usually priced at $33 to $59 per square foot. But the higher price may be worth it, since stone resists fire and most weather conditions. That makes it a good choice for all climates. Stone also offers great insulation and a rustic appearance that can make your home look like a cottage plucked from a storybook.
| Siding Type | Benefits | Drawbacks | Cost (per square foot, installed) |
| Vinyl | -Lightweight for quick installation -Can be retrofitted over existing siding -Low maintenance -Top brands offer transferable lifetime guarantees | -Visible seams on standard panels -Extra-long panels cost more to eliminate seams | $5 to $9 |
| Metal | -Lightweight for easy installation -Durable, dent-resistant, and fire-proof -Requires little maintenance | -Limited availability in some areas -Dents are permanent; scratches need touch-ups | $3 to $5 |
| Fiber-Cement | -Durable and low maintenance -Can mimic wood, stucco, or masonry -Termite-proof and fire-resistant -Standard 30-year warranty | -Heavy; requires specialty installation -Installation can add significant labor costs -Retrofit needs a complete tear-off | $6 to $11 |
| Natural Wood | -Aesthetically pleasing and easy to shape -Can last over 100 years with proper care -Lower labor costs for installation | -Expensive; requires regular maintenance (painting/staining) -Not moisture-resistant; species may rot | $3 to $9 (clapboard) $3 to $6 (shingles) |
| Engineered Wood | -Tolerant to temperature changes Requires less maintenance than natural wood | -May be less aesthetically pleasing than natural wood -Colors can fade over time | $4 to $7 |
| Stone Veneer | -Natural, textured look -Weather-resistant | -Expensive material cost -Expensive installation | $33 to $59 |
Should You DIY Your Siding Replacement?
Siding installation requires precision and knowledge. Installation mistakes can cause issues like water damage or reduced energy efficiency. You'll also need specific tools and equipment, which can be costly if you don't already own them. Most homeowners aren't likely to be well-suited for a siding replacement project, especially with siding materials like stone veneer or wood. While a vinyl siding replacement could be manageable for a skilled homeowner, hiring a professional is still advisable. They may offer warranties on their work, giving you peace of mind.
Siding Replacement Process
If you decide to hire a professional, here's what to expect during a siding replacement project.
- Initial assessment and consultation: A professional evaluates the condition of your current siding and discusses your replacement options, including materials and costs.
- Removal and preparation: The pro you hire carefully removes the old siding and inspects and prepares the underlying structure for the new siding. You may need to pay for additional repairs if the removal uncovers water or insect damage.
- Installation and finishing touches: The siding professional installs the new siding according to manufacturer specifications for a secure and weather-tight fit. They’ll add features such as trim and caulking for a polished look. Installation will vary considerably based on the siding material. Vinyl is easier to install than wood or stone.
- Ongoing maintenance: While new siding requires less maintenance than older, damaged siding, periodic inspections, and cleaning can help extend its lifespan and maintain its appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Should Siding Last?
The life of your siding depends on your chosen materials and the amount of wear. Vinyl will usually last for 20 to 30 years (but less in very hot weather), while engineered wood can last for over 50 years with regular cleaning and upkeep. Stone siding may last 50 to 75 years if installed correctly. Stucco, aluminum, and brick are other long-lasting alternatives you may never need to replace.
How Should You Choose a Color for Siding?
Start by considering your home's style and architecture. Traditional homes often look great with classic colors like white, beige, or gray. Modern homes can handle dark, bold hues. Victorian or historical homes might benefit from more daring pastels. Consider the colors of neighboring homes. You want your home to fit in with the overall neighborhood aesthetic.
Climate is also an important factor. Light colors reflect heat, which can keep homes in sunny climates cool. On the other hand, dark colors absorb heat, so they could help homeowners in chilly climates stay warm. However, dark colors are prone to fading from the sunlight, so they may require more-regular maintenance to keep looking vivid.