Understanding Wood Siding Problems

Wood siding has long been revered for its ability to add beauty and a natural look to a home's exterior. However, wood siding requires regular inspection and maintenance to keep it looking great and properly protecting a home. While some varieties of wood are more susceptible to problems than other varieties, problems with wood siding generally fall into a few main categories.

Moisture is the top enemy of wood siding products; while wood siding is naturally water-repellent, moisture that stays in contact with the wood for a prolonged period can lead to cracking, warping, buckling, mildew, and mold. Once problems such as these manifest themselves in wood siding, the only option is often to replace the affected portion of the siding.

Prevention is the key to avoiding moisture damage when it comes to maintaining wood siding. First, the siding should be inspected regularly; inspections should occur once a year at a minimum, but every few months is even better. Look for spaces or gaps where the wood may have separated; water can invade these cracks and become trapped. In addition, if the sealant, stain or paint wears off of an area of wood, water can be absorbed in these spots and eventually lead to damage.

Clogged gutters can also cause problems by introducing moisture to wood siding; if gutters cannot handle the water runoff from the roof, the excess water may spill down the home's exterior walls and cause moisture damage to the wood over time. Gutters need to be cleaned regularly and inspected for deterioration; portions of the gutter that allow water to leak down the exterior walls need to be replaced quickly.

Another potential damaging agent when it comes to wood siding is an insect infestation. Some types of wood, such as cedar and redwood, provide more natural pest resistance, but all types of wood are susceptible to damage from insects. The key to minimizing damage caused by pests is to catch it early and deal with the problem quickly. Again, regular inspections are crucial in preventing extensive damage from insects.

While some problems with wood siding can be fixed by a homeowner who is handy with tools and building materials, it is always a good idea to obtain a quote from a professional. Wood siding is a major investment, and it only makes sense to have qualified individuals perform necessary repairs so that the wood siding maintains both looks and protective qualities.