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We all want to keep our home’s appearance attractive and our property well-maintained. Replacing your cedar shingle siding is a big and high-stake decision. Your house is an important investment you want to protect, but you also want to get the most value for your money. Cedar, one of the most popular types of siding materials in the United States, lasts for decades if treated properly.
However, there comes a time when your cedar siding needs to be replaced. When is the best time to do this? The first step is to examine it for any obvious signs of damage. Once done, You also need to consider whether it would be better financially to treat the existing siding or install a new type instead. If you make up your mind, then contact a trusted siding contractor who has the experience and is conversant with the current designs. Read on to learn when to replace cedar shingle siding.
When They Are Curling
If you notice that your shingles are curling up or lifting away from the wall, this could signify that they need to be replaced. The most common cause of curling is moisture damage. It can happen when there’s too much water on the roof, and it seeps into the shingles.
When They Are Cracking
If you see cracks or other signs of wear in your shingles, it’s probably time to consider replacing them. When you replace your cedar shingles, make sure you use a material that will offer the same protection as the original and moisture resistant. You’ll want to consider vinyl siding because these materials protect against your home’s rot, insects, and water damage, and its lifespan is 20-40 years.
When They Are Missing Shingles
Shingles provide a barrier between the rest of your house and the elements like rain, snow, and wind. If your shingles are missing or damaged, they may no longer be effective at protecting you from the elements.
When They Have Frayed
The best time for replacement is when they start looking worn and old. If you notice that your siding has begun to look faded or worn out, use the following tips to determine whether or not it’s time for a new coat of paint or new siding altogether:
- Look at the color of your siding. If it’s faded or stained, this is an indication that you should repaint it so that you don’t have to deal with any additional damage later on down the line.
- Check out how well the nails are holding up against weather conditions like rain or snowfall. If they’re weak or bending under moisture pressure, it’s time for a new coat of paint or some other protective coating over them (such as sealant).
When There Is Growth of Mold and Mildew
They are two common problems with cedar shingle siding. They are caused by a fungus that grows on surfaces, such as siding in your home. They can grow anywhere in moisture and warm temperatures, but it’s particularly susceptible to growth in areas like bathrooms, crawl spaces, and basements.
Both of them cause damage to your home’s exterior materials over time. They can cause rot or discoloration on the surface of siding materials such as wood shingles or shakes. They can also produce an unpleasant odor that you or your neighbors may detect.
Clean up any spots with a damp cloth or sponge if you notice mold or mildew on your cedar shingle siding. Then check each window sill or door frame for signs of mold growth before scrubbing them down.
When There Is An Increase In Energy Bills
If your energy bills are increasing, it may be time to replace your cedar shingle siding. There are several reasons why this could be the case. One reason is that the cedar shingles on your house may be damaged and need replacing. Another reason is that your cedar shingles are old and need replacing.
However, if you do not want to replace them, you can try to repair any damage by removing any loose or broken pieces of the siding first. You can also add additional insulation around the house to help reduce the heat lost through your home’s exterior walls.
Ultimately, it’s up to you when you think replacing your cedar shingle siding is right. The signs we listed above will point you in the right direction. However, once you have made that decision, stay firm on your timeline and be sure to hire a reputable siding contractor to complete the work. And before winter rolls around, you’ll enjoy a new look for your house for the first time in twenty years.