Siding on Lower Mainland homes can take a beating: cold temperature, fluctuating temperatures, high winds, pelting rain. It is designed to protect your home from the elements. However, regardless of the type and its durability – vinyl siding, wood or cedar siding, or aluminum siding – it can still be vulnerable to moisture and damp conditions. The following tips can help protect siding from water damage.
Well-Maintained Siding
Clean the siding of your home at least once a year. Not only does it improve curb appeal, it can protect your heath by removing dirt and grime that attracts mold, mildew, and algae. Especially if mold starts to grow on cedar siding, wood siding, and even aluminum siding, it can compromise the protective finish, making it susceptible to further water damage.
Periodically inspect the siding, particularly after an intense storm. Look for gaps, cracks, holes, and missing siding panels. You want to prevent water from getting in behind the siding. Also check loose hardware, raised nail heads, and nails on the ground. Make any necessary repairs as soon as possible or consult with a siding contractor. Most companies offer one free estimate.
Well-Maintained Gutters
Can we ever say enough about gutter cleaning here at MHC Gutters? Neglected gutters cause mischief. When leaves, twigs, pine needles, and grit are not removed from the gutter channels, debris can form clogs. If rainwater doesn’t flow through the gutters and out of the downspouts, it can go over the sides, splashing up into the soffit and fascia and running down the siding. Even if debris flows into the downspouts, organic materials might become snagged inside the downpipes and stop rainwater from exiting. Keep the gutters well-maintained as part of your home’s maintenance schedule.
When Watering Your Garden
If you have a sprinkler system on your property, make sure your home’s exterior is not part of the landscaping being watered. Check to see if sprinkler heads are pointing away from the foundation, siding, driveway, and sidewalks. When watering plants and shrubs manually, be mindful of how close to the siding water is draining.
Plants, Shrubs, and Trees
Beautiful landscaping is key to great curb appear. But when plants and trees grow too close to siding they can contribute to moisture buildup in two main ways. The first is when trees and shrub brush up against wood siding or vinyl siding and create scratches or holes. The second way plants, shrubs, and trees cause water damage is when they release trapped rainwater on their branches and leaves and the droplets find their way into cracks. Ensure there is enough space between the siding and the foliage for proper air flow and drying time by trimming back any plants touching the siding.
