Fall Maintenance Tips for Siding

When the seasons transition from summer to fall, homeowners start to prepare for colder weather. Winter may be months away, but New England weather can change on a dime! Freezing temperatures, heavy snow and sleet can cause damage to a home that’s not ready. Homeowners especially have to prepare their siding, the exterior material that protects against the outside elements.

Follow these 5 tips for siding maintenance this fall.

Thoroughly Clean Siding

When fall arrives, be sure to remove any dirt, mildew and other debris from your siding that accumulated over the summer. Bugs like to nest inside the small crevices of a home’s siding, so clean those areas well to prevent permanent habitation when winter settles in.

Look for Siding Damage

Inspect your siding for cracks, holes or areas where the material is pulling away from the house. If damaged siding is not fixed before winter comes, you could experience poor heating performance and increased energy bills. Through these siding holes, cold air sneaks inside and warm air escapes, forcing your system to work twice as hard. Damage may worsen and become irreparable by spring!

Seal Any Cracks

As mentioned above, any cracks that are found in the siding can lead to further issues if left unaddressed. These blemishes are often found between the house trim and siding, where moisture starts to seep inside. Prevent excess moisture and air leaks that could cause expensive damage to your home by sealing any cracks with caulk.

Trim Overgrown Plants

Cut back shrubbery that’s too close to your house. Not only could tree limbs break and fall onto your property during a winter storm, but moisture from melting snow and ice could drip onto your siding. Vinyl siding – which our team at Steve Czerwinski Inc. installs – is designed to withstand the elements, but homeowners should still avoid constant, preventable exposure to moisture.

Keep Gutters Clear

When gutters become clogged with leaves and other debris, the dirty water could leak down your siding. Poorly maintained gutters can have a negative impact on other areas of your home, so it’s important to keep your downspouts clear and address any issues right away.
 
In the market for new siding for your home? Vinyl siding is the best option for many homeowners, as the material closely resembles real wood but withstands the elements better – and it’s practically maintenance-free. To learn more about your options, contact the team at Steve Czerwinski Inc. today!