Your siding protects your home from the elements. Like your home’s roof, it ensures that you’re protected from extreme temperatures. Unfortunately, not all homeowners pay attention to their siding until they have to replace it.
You have to know that not all sidings are the same. For instance, several siding materials like vinyl can last a long time and don’t require much attention. But some may require extra care. Fortunately, regardless of the type of siding you have, there are various ways to protect it from damage. Here’s what you can do:
1. Seal And Paint Your Siding Regularly
No matter what kind of siding Guelph, Ontario, can offer you—or the city you’re living in, for that matter—you must regularly seal and paint it when necessary. For example, if you choose wood siding, paint it every five years. If you see signs of damage or paint chipping before then, make sure to repaint it sooner. If you want a more natural option, you can stain your wood siding rather than apply a fresh paint coat. You don’t usually have to paint vinyl sidings, but doing so can brighten your home’s exterior and extend its lifespan. When your vinyl siding fades, it’ll start losing its charm.
If you still don’t have the budget to replace it, painting it may prolong its life. Just opt for light colors and check if the manufacturer’s warranty allows it. The reason behind it is that repainting or other alterations might void your warranty siding since doing it wrong may result in intense warping.
Besides painting your siding, you can also add a sealant to lessen the moisture damage and keep the paint looking fresh. For best results, use a sealant once every few years.
2. Consider Trimming Your Landscape
Another way to keep your siding well-protected from any possible damage is to keep your landscaping in check. Trees and bushes should be trimmed so that they won’t rub against your siding. While small bushes might not make a difference, the friction and moisture from your plants may transfer to your siding, which can contribute to its deterioration.
To avoid siding damage, consider trimming your landscape. This won’t only help protect your siding, but it can also make your yard and house exterior look more attractive all year round.
3. Adjust Your Sprinkler Heads
Sprinklers are very convenient for many homeowners as they help save time in watering their garden or front yard. They also ensure that your garden or lawn gets enough water without the need to drag around a long hose.
However, ensure that your sprinklers are appropriately installed and their heads should be pointed away from your home siding. The reason behind it is that the constant spray of your sprinklers may find its way past your siding.
If the sprinkler heads are pointed to your home siding, make sure to adjust them immediately. If you have shrubs or flowers near the side of your home, install a drip system or water them by hand instead of pointing your sprinkler heads toward your home.
4. Insulate Your Attic
Attic insulation can affect how much snow collects on the roof, which may cause damage to your siding when the snow melts. Although it’s an extra expense to insulate your attic, it can make a difference in protecting your siding from damage, especially during the winter.
With insulation, you can prevent temperature fluctuations and stop the heat in your attic from escaping through your roof. If you already insulated your attic but you still see frequent ice dams, get help from professionals to know whether you need additional insulation.
5. Remove Ice And Snow
During the winter, you should scrape away enough snow to avoid a slip-and-fall accident on your sidewalk or just remove enough so you can escape your driveway. However, if you leave snow piled next to your house, it may melt against your home siding, which can also affect your property’s foundation.
While you don’t need to clear every inch of snow around your property, make sure to do your best to keep the ice or snow away from your home siding. Just be gentle when using a shovel, as pounding and scraping against ice may crack or dent your siding.
6. Keep Your Gutters Clean
One way you can protect your property from water is your gutter. However, once some debris clogs your gutters, they become ineffective and may start overflowing over the side, which can potentially affect your siding. To protect your siding from water damage, make sure to clean your gutters regularly to keep them working efficiently.
Conclusion
Since your siding is meant to protect your home, it’s best to prevent any possible damage that may affect it. Keep in mind that the deterioration of your siding may work its way inside your foundation and your home. By considering the tips in this post and taking care of your property, you can be assured that your siding will last longer and keep your home well-protected from various outdoor elements.