Advice on Siding Maintenance

Siding maintenance should never be overlooked by homeowners who want to have new siding installed in their homes. Siding is exposed to extreme weather conditions that hasten its degeneration. In fact, the longevity of siding depends on two things: 1) the durability of the chosen material and; 2) the degree of maintenance invested by the homeowner. For homeowners who might be unfamiliar with maintenance, a low-maintenance siding is the best option.

Good maintenance increases the durability and longevity of siding. Vinyl siding is the easiest type of siding to maintain. It simply needs to be washed and inspected once a year. However, vinyl siding can sometimes crack under forceful impact, so it is best to keep lawn mowers, bicycles and baseball games away to prevent any damage. Also, intense heat can melt vinyl siding so heaters and barbecue grills need to be kept away from it.

Aluminum sidings require little maintenance as well. However, some precautions need to be taken to ensure that it retains its appearance and lasts longer. Aluminum siding should be painted when it shows signs of chalking or oxidation which are both caused by weathering. Painting the surface of the siding will prevent further degeneration. Also, aluminum siding should be washed thoroughly once a year to remove grime.

Wood siding needs a lot of maintenance as it is subject to damage from termites, rots from moisture and cracks and splits from extreme weather. Some steps need to be taken to ensure that wood siding Fairfax lasts longer. Wood rot can be prevented by being treated with oil. It can also be stained at least once every three years and painted every five years.

In humid climates, wood siding Montgomery County needs special care as moisture causes the wood to rot and expand. In addition, wood siding needs to be checked for holes made by birds and insects and replaced if damage is found. Also, wood siding can be cleaned by being hosed down with water like other sidings.

Lastly, for metal siding Fairfax painting the surface if it appears dull and faded is not recommended. Many experts recommend a specially designed protective coating to be applied on the metal siding instead. Protective coating helps restore the color and finish of the metal siding, and protect it from corrosion and oxidation.