How Can I Tell If Siding Needs to Be Replaced?

Most types of home siding will last more than 10 years, while some siding options, like wood and vinyl, will last for 50 to 100 years. However, in some cases, the siding will wear down more quickly and require replacement due to extreme weather or unexpected environmental issues. Also, keep in mind that if the problem is only with a certain section of the siding, you may not have to replace the entire home's exterior. You might be able to replace just a few of the planks to resolve the issue.

Instructions

- 1
  Stand about 20 to 30 feet from the front of the house. If you can see visual damage to the siding from that distance, that is a clear indication that you need to replace the siding soon.
- 2
  Check the siding up close for mildew, mold or dry rot if it is wood siding. These types of problems cannot be repaired--you need to replace the affected wooden planks. If you allow the rotted planks to remain, they could begin to affect the rest of the wood siding, making replacement an urgent matter.
- 3
  Examine the siding for deep dents, holes, cracks and scratches (common for vinyl and aluminum varieties). If a significant number of the planks (about 50 percent or more) have physical damage, consider replacing the previous installation.
- 4
  Test the flexibility of the material if you have vinyl siding. If it bends easily, falls off frequently or won't stay connected to the other planks at all, you have to replace the siding to resolve the issue.

How to Power Wash a House With the Right PSI

How to Remove Wood Paint From a Deck

Outdoor House Painting