Home Siding, Maintenance, and Exterior Design

Many Charlotte area homeowners choose siding as the exterior covering or cladding to their homes because of the relative ease of home siding maintenance. However, siding maintenance and repair is an essential part of home ownership if you want to maintain the integrity and curb appeal of your home.

Vinyl Siding Maintenance

Charlotte homes can take a real beating from inclement weather, including heavy rains, winds and extreme temperatures to fallen tree branches and unruly landscaping. Vinyl siding is often a go-to choice for homeowner because of its minimal upkeep and long life. However, homeowners should be mindful of loose pieces of siding that could cause further damage to the exterior of your home if left untreated. Left alone, damaged siding could become irreparable giving cause to major repairs. Vinyl siding also has a tendency to attract dirt and grime. Overtime it builds up on your siding causing it to look aged and dirty. Regular vinyl siding maintenance should include an annual power wash to remove the unsightly buildup of dirt.

Wood Siding Maintenance and Repair

Wood siding adds a rustic element to any Charlotte home; however, it requires greater care and maintenance than vinyl siding in order to preserve its appearance. Wood siding should be treated with sealant every four to six years to help protect it from the elements. Many homeowners will often choose to re-stain their wood siding every few years to keep up its rich color. Homeowners should apply a strong power wash to the siding before every treatment to ensure all dirt and grime has been removed from the siding before applying sealant.

Repairing wood siding at the first sign of damage is important to its overall upkeep. Homeowners should be on the lookout for cracks or wholes caused by weather, insects, birds or other elements that can allow moisture to permeate the surface laying the foundation for future rot and other damage. Loose boards can also cause moisture to break through the surface and, like vinyl siding, could lead to more extensive damage. Re-nail loose boards or replace damaged pieces of siding in order to maintain the health and appearance of your wood siding.

Frequent siding maintenance and repair can be a cost effective way to preserve the integrity and curb appeal of your Charlotte home. Annual spot checks and power washes can help identify any problem areas and help maintain the health of your exterior.