Home siding typically lasts 20 to 40 years, but that doesn’t mean homeowners won’t have to make some repairs along the way. Inspect your siding regularly and address any minor damage immediately to prevent larger issues from arising down the road.
Most Siding Repair is relatively inexpensive, but extending repair
t options or consider applying for a HELOC.
Repairing Small Cracks and Holes
If you notice a few small cracks or holes in your siding, it is important to fix them as soon as possible. Left unaddressed, these issues can snowball into much larger problems, such as mold or insect infestation. Plus, if moisture or insects can get in through these gaps, it will cause further damage to the vinyl and other materials.
To repair small cracks or holes in your vinyl siding, you can use a vinyl patch kit and caulk. Begin by cleaning the area around the damaged spot thoroughly, and then apply the vinyl patch and press it into place. Next, smooth the patch with a putty knife and allow it to dry. Finally, apply a few coats of exterior latex paint that matches your home’s color. This will help the patch blend in and keep moisture and pests out of the home.
For holes or cracks that are not as large, you can use epoxy putty to fill the gap. This type of putty can be mixed with water to create a consistency that closely resembles your siding’s texture, and it can be painted over to match the rest of the house. Once the epoxy putty dries, it can be sanded to remove any excess and then repainted.
When a hole or crack is more than 2 inches wide, the best option may be to replace the damaged board or panel. Begin by removing any nails that secure the board or panel in place, then using a hammer and zip tool to pry it loose from the wall. After removing the piece, you will need to carefully examine the condition of the surrounding boards to determine if they can be repaired with a patch or need to be replaced altogether.
If the surrounding pieces are still intact and have no visible signs of rot or mold, you can install a new piece to replace the damaged one. Be sure to nail the new board or panel in place with stainless steel siding nails to ensure that it is firmly attached. If any of the other panels or boards are in a similar state, you may need to use this opportunity to replace them as well.
Repairing Large Cracks and Holes
Identifying and addressing large cracks or holes in your siding is vital to keeping it functional and attractive. These issues can cause moisture penetration which may lead to rotting, mildew buildup, and structural damage. The presence of a hole can also serve as an invitation for rodents or pests looking for shelter or nesting areas. These unwanted guests will ultimately lead to further issues, and the longer your siding remains damaged, the more costly it will be to repair.
In the event that you find a major gap or hole, you will need to remove the affected piece of your siding and replace it with a new one. Before you do this, use a hammer to locate any nails or screws that are holding the old piece in place, and then unscrew or cut them. When reinstalling your replacement siding, be sure to secure it properly with stainless steel siding nails. It is important to make sure the new piece of siding matches the color and style of your existing pieces of siding in order to keep a consistent appearance on your home’s exterior.
Before starting any repairs, be sure to gather all the necessary tools and materials. This may include a vinyl patch kit, replacement siding panels, caulking, and paint that is color-matched to your existing exterior siding. Ensure that you prioritize safety and wear eye protection when using any power tools. It is also important to clean up any dust or debris as it can cause respiratory irritation and other health hazards.
If you are repairing a gap or hole less than an inch in size, you can usually complete the repair in just minutes. Load a caulking gun with waterproof caulk, then fill the gap or hole with a thin bead of caulk. Smooth the caulk with a putty knife, and then sand it and apply a coat of paint to match the surrounding siding.
In the case of larger holes, you will need to use a piece of replacement siding cut to the proper length. To prepare this piece, you will need to cut away 1 1/2 to 2 inches of the rolled edges on the top and bottom. When you are ready to install the patch, you will need to measure the location of the hole on the piece of replacement siding to determine how long you will need to cut it.
Repairing Damaged Panels
If a panel is broken or severely damaged, it’s important to get it replaced as soon as possible to prevent moisture from getting into the wall and causing further damage. This is especially true for aging vinyl siding, which can lose its protective qualities and allow water into the wall if not properly maintained and replaced.
Begin by separating the broken panel from the panels above and below it. A zip tool, which resembles a hook and works like a slide to unlock panels, is ideal for this step. You can also use a pry bar or hammer to separate the panel and remove any nails or screws holding it in place.
Once you have the damaged panel removed, measure the space to determine how large of a patch is needed. Cut a new piece of vinyl siding that is slightly larger than the original, making sure it extends two inches beyond the panel on all sides to create an overlap that seals out moisture.
Apply a bead of waterproof caulk around the hole to help protect the area. Press the replacement patch firmly into place, ensuring it locks in with the lip on the bottom of the panel above it and that the edges are properly aligned. Secure the patch with galvanized siding nails, if necessary.
Allow the caulk to dry completely before sanding and painting the repaired area. A fresh coat of paint can help blend the patch with the surrounding panel for a seamless look and better protection of your home.
It’s important to remember that when a panel is badly damaged, it may be time to consider replacing the entire section of vinyl siding. Repairing a single panel of vinyl siding can be costly and time-consuming, but a new replacement can save you money in the long run and give your house a fresh, updated look that can last for decades.
The most common signs that you need to replace your vinyl siding include:
Repairing Damaged Trim
Whether it’s caused by storm damage, age or simply daily exposure to the elements, wood siding can experience small cracks and holes. These imperfections can not only affect the appearance of your home, but they can also allow water to seep in and cause rot and other problems. To keep your home looking great and functioning properly, it’s important to address any damaged trim as soon as possible. Small divots and holes that are less than an inch in size can often be repaired using putty or spackle. First, make sure the area is dry and clean. Lightly sand the area using a sanding block to degloss and remove any mildew or dirt. Then, select a putty or spackle that matches the color and texture of your siding. Apply a thin layer of the product over the hole, smoothing it out with a putty knife. Allow it to dry completely before touching up the area with a brush or rag to remove any excess.
For larger dents or holes, you may need to replace the damaged board entirely. If the wood is soft or rotting, it will need to be replaced with a new piece of siding and caulked into place. If you’re replacing the board, be sure to use a stainless steel trim nail and caulking that is colored to match the existing siding.
Once the patch is dry, you can touch up the area with paint or stain to create a seamless repair. Be sure to choose a color that matches the existing siding, or you can stain the whole section of the wall to give it a fresh new look.
If you’re concerned about repairing and maintaining your vertical wood siding, a qualified siding contractor can help. Not only will they be able to identify the best course of action for your home, they can also help you navigate an insurance claim if necessary and ensure that you receive full compensation for all repairs and replacement costs.
Contact us today to learn more about our siding repair and replacement services. We proudly serve homeowners in the greater Indianapolis area.