Siding can be an excellent way to enhance the appearance of your property and eliminate the time-consuming labor of scraping and repainting every few years. In most cases, siding adds to the value of a property, and it may also reduce energy costs. Siding is extremely low-maintenance, typically requiring little more than occasionally directing your water hose at it to clean it. However, problems can sometimes develop with siding that require corrective action. Following are some of the most common siding issues.
Buckled or Warped Slats
Buckling or warping is almost always the result of improper installation. This can be due to pieces that are a bit too long to fit between the trim pieces, such as between the corner trim and the door. However, it is usually caused by siding that has been attached too tightly. Unlike wood, vinyl siding needs to have the freedom to move slightly when temperature changes cause it to expand or contract. You can check for this condition by trying to move individual pieces of siding side-to-side with your hand. If it is too tight, it will not move, but if correctly installed, it will shift about one-half inch to each side.
Brown Stains
If you see stains that look like your siding has had muddy water poured down it, you probably have a problem where the siding meets the roof area. Properly installed siding seals this intersection against water. If improperly installed, however, rain can leak behind the siding, causing staining as well as rot.
Mildew, Mold and Algae
Mildew, mold and algae are common problems for siding installed in areas that receive too little sun and too much moisture, such as underneath a large tree or behind a bush that touches the siding. Mold typically appears as a powdery gray or white substance flecked with black. Mildew may be black or brown, and it tends to spread slowly. Algae will often be green in color, but it can also be brown or black. Because it can be difficult for the untrained eye to differentiate between them, you might want to ask a siding professional to identify and treat any areas that show spotting. Alpha Roofing Industries understands the importance of handling moss and debris issues!
Taking corrective actions if you encounter any of these warning signs can help you protect the integrity and appearance of your siding. If you notice any problems with your siding — or need new siding installed — contact Alpha Roofing. Many services are offered by Alpha Roofing Industries, including Metal Fabrication, and Flat Roof Replacements. We have more than three decades of industry experience in Austin and serve most of Central Texas. In addition to siding, we offer a comprehensive range of roofing services as well as chimney cleaning. You can use our online quote request form to send us your information, or call our office at 512-777-1086.