Aluminum siding, in many ways, is one of the most suitable siding materials for our Pacific Northwest climate. Very versatile and durable, it is rust-resistant, fire-resistant, and cost-effective because it lasts longer than vinyl siding. However, when aluminum cladding becomes damaged, there might be circumstances where you should replace the siding rather than repair it.
Painting Aluminum Siding
Eventually the colour of aluminum siding will fade and/or become chalky over time. Because it is vulnerable to direct sunlight, it will need to be painted every five to ten years.
If the siding develops a chalky film, wash it away with a mild solution of liquid detergent and water. If the siding is noticeably faded in a particular area, you can try to replace just the affected section of aluminum siding. But it can be difficult to colour-match, depending on the siding’s age or if the colour has been discontinued by the manufacturer. Painting this siding material is a viable option to full replacement.
When to replace the siding of your home exterior: Aluminum siding can last up to 40 years. If washing the chalky film off no longer is effective (surface remains dull and unattractive) or you have to paint aluminum siding that is over 35 years, it will be more cost-effective to replace the siding.
Dents and Dings
Because aluminum is a “soft” metal, one of the common issues with aluminum cladding is it is prone to dents and dings. While there are ways to repair dents, it can be very time consuming and the siding can finally become too worn in appearance, impacting your curb appeal.
When to replace the siding of your home exterior: As mentioned above, purchasing just a replacement panel or section can be almost impossible due to availability or colour-matching. If the siding has become misshapen because of too many dents, it’s time to buy new siding.
Too Many Pinholes
Aluminum siding doesn’t rust. But it is susceptible to corrosion, a breakdown of the metal’s composition as it interacts with air and water. It first appears in aluminum siding as pinholes and can look like dirt marks. As further deterioration occurs, the holes become larger, allowing moisture in behind siding panels.
When to replace the siding of your home exterior: Pinholes can be repaired with the appropriate sealant. If there are too many pinholes or you’re constantly repairing the same section, replacing the siding will reduce structural vulnerability.
Becomes too Noisy
Aluminum is a noisy siding material. Wind will rattle the siding, producing dinging sounds. When aluminum expands in hot weather, it doesn’t do so quietly. While the noise new aluminum siding produces isn’t as noticeable, it can become more pronounced with age.
When to replace the siding of your home exterior: Other aluminum siding issues can be repaired, but the noises produced by this siding material are unavoidable. Replace older aluminum siding if it becomes too noisy for comfort.
High Utility Bills
Aluminum siding is not energy-efficient; it has a low R-value. Sudden increases in utility bills could be an indication that air is entering or escaping into or out of your home because of failing siding.
When to replace the siding of your home exterior: If you want to reduce your carbon footprint, replace it with more eco-friendly siding material choices such as cedar shakes or fiber cement siding.
