Winter is a beautiful season, but it can be tough on your home’s exterior, especially the siding. With over a decade of experience as a general contractor, our team has seen it all when it comes to winter siding damage, and trust us nothing is worse than a freezing home!
The good news is that many of these issues are preventable with some proactive measures and proper maintenance. Read on to learn the most common causes of siding damage in the winter and offer some practical tips to help you safeguard your home and avoid costly repairs.
#1 Cause Of Winter Siding Damage: Moisture
One of the most common problems during the winter is moisture infiltration. When siding is not properly maintained, moisture and water can seep into cracks and holes. During the winter, this moisture will condense on the interior part of your home and may even ice over. Over time, this can lead to mold and rot within your walls.
How To Prevent Winter Siding Damage: Regularly inspect your siding for cracks, gaps, or missing pieces. Caulk or seal any openings, and ensure that your siding is properly weatherproofed. Pay attention to areas around windows, doors, and utility penetrations, as they are particularly vulnerable.
2. Freezing and Thawing Cycles
If your home’s siding is starting to look funny now that the colder weather has arrived, it might be due to the freezing temps. The constant freezing and thawing of snow and ice can put a strain on your siding, leading to cracks, warping, and even loosening.
Prevention: Regularly clean your siding to remove debris, which can trap moisture and exacerbate the problem. A fresh coat of paint or sealant before the winter season can provide an additional layer of protection against these cycles.
3. Tree Damage
Ice buildup is a common occurrence in the winter months on trees, shrubs, and other objects around your home’s siding. Too much ice can make even the strongest branches heavy and brittle causing them to fall over onto your house and can cause physical damage to your siding.
Prevention: Trim overhanging tree branches and clean your gutters regularly to prevent ice and snow buildup on your roof. If your area is prone to hail, consider investing in impact-resistant siding materials.
5. Poor Drainage
Winter siding damage can also be caused by poor drainage around your home, especially when melting snow or ice accumulates near your foundation.
Prevention: Ensure that your home has proper drainage, including well-functioning gutters, downspouts, and grading around the foundation. This will direct water away from your siding and foundation.
5. Lack Of Siding Maintenance
Neglecting regular maintenance can exacerbate all of the above issues. Over time, even small issues can turn into costly repairs once the winter weather and freezing temperatures arrive.
Prevention: Make siding maintenance part of your annual home care routine. Clean your siding, inspect for damage, and repair or replace any damaged sections promptly.
Key Takeaways About Preventing Winter Siding Damage
As a general contractor, we’ve seen the havoc winter can wreak on homes with poorly maintained siding. But with some proactive measures and regular maintenance, you can protect your home from costly repairs and keep it looking its best. Remember, it’s not just about curb appeal; it’s about preserving the integrity of your home.
Take the time to assess your siding, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing your home is well-prepared to face the challenges of winter. If you ever need professional assistance or advice, don’t hesitate to reach out for help protecting your home in the winter months! Call 405-895-9972 to speak to an expert and request a free home inspection today.
