Don't see the answer to your question? Ask Condopedia!

Does the siding on our premises need repair?

What are some of the more common causes of damage to siding?

It is important to keep your siding in good condition. Worn siding can lead to all sorts of problems, including insect infestations and damage to the underlying structure. By inspecting your premises every year or two you could save tens of thousands of dollars. The cost of a repair is far less than the cost of replacing siding or, in the case of brick, of doing a complete repointing.

To do an inspection, it's best to hire a qualified home inspector, in part because some damage (such as wood rot) is often difficult to see. Nonetheless, even without a home inspector, you can probably find the most serious damage without too much effort. A cheap pair of binoculars can help you inspect upper floors. A strong flashlight can help you inspect dark corners and behind plants. Look especially closely at areas that might retain moisture, such as under porches and behind ivy and bushes. Also, look at areas that may have been damaged by tree branches, are subject to bad weather based on the weather patterns in your area, or get constantly sprayed by outdoor sprinklers. Look for cracks, chips, tears, peeling paint, signs of rot, rusting (of nailheads used for siding), broken caulking, and so on.

Note: If you have problem siding that was defective, you may be able to get compensated. To learn more about this issue, you might start by looking at one of these webpages: ClaimSourceone webpage, Siding Solutions, or Masonite Hardboard Siding webpage.

The most common cause of damage is water--from heavy rains, ice, melting snow, even sprinkler systems. If the water finds its way into small holes and crevices, it can lead to rot and mildew, attract insects, and cause other damage. In the case of brick and stucco, water can get into crevices, freeze and expand, causing further damage.

Depending on the type of siding you have, there can be other types of damage. Here area few examples:

• Vinyl siding may be torn when, for instance, a branch strikes the side of your premises in storm
• Aluminum siding can dent when, for instance, a lawnmower thrusts a rock at it
• Bricks can break as a result of building shifts
• Poor installation or installation over a worn underlying structure can cause siding to fall off

To avoid costly damage, repair siding promptly. If you leave it go, it's just a matter of time before a minor problem becomes a major one.