4 Common Siding Damage Homeowners Don’t Notice After Winter Storms
Identifying common siding damage early can save Northern New Jersey homeowners from significant repair costs after a harsh winter. While large cracks or missing panels are easy to spot, many subtle issues often hide in plain sight following a heavy nor’easter.
Snow accumulation and ice dams almost always trap moisture against the exterior of your home for weeks. Unfortunately, this long-term threat can compromise the structural integrity of your siding well before overt signs of failure appear.
The Subtle Impact of Freezing Temperatures
The constant freeze/thaw cycle in North Jersey causes siding materials to expand and contract. The resultant movement usually produces hairline fractures that are very difficult to see from the curb but allow moisture to seep behind the panels.
Brittle materials, such as older vinyl, are particularly susceptible to impact damage during high winds. Flying debris or even heavy hail can create small chips that eventually grow into larger breaks.
1. Identifying Moisture Infiltration
If you notice small, dark spots or “bubbles” on your siding, you might be seeing water trapped beneath the surface. This type of damage is a frequent precursor to rot in the wood sheathing beneath your exterior layer.
Peeling paint or wallpaper in your home may also indicate problems with the siding, since moisture can enter through minute openings in the siding even before the siding appears defective.
2. Hidden Structural Issues
One common type of siding damage occurs when metal nails are hidden beneath the siding. If salt-laden winter air enters such gaps, it may cause nails to rust, reducing their hold on the house’s frame.
You may even notice “waviness” on the side of your home when the sun catches it at a certain angle. This can often indicate that the siding on your home was displaced by melting ice or heavy snowfall.
3. Wear and Tear of the Environment
Other indicators of common siding damage that the average homeowner may overlook until early spring arrives include biological growth, such as moss or algae. These types of organisms love damp, shady areas in Northern New Jersey homes and can trap moisture against the siding material.
This organic growth, if left untreated, can permanently discolor or soften certain types of siding. The earlier these patches are identified, the easier it is to perform a professional cleaning or a focused repair before wall integrity is jeopardized.
4. Wind Stress and Loose Fasteners
Winter storms in Northern New Jersey can cause siding panels to blow loose against the home, creating a hard-to-detect gap. One way to tell the panels are loose is when they rattle in the wind; this is a warning sign that they need to be checked by a professional siding contractor in Essex County, NJ.
When screws start to loosen, they may expose the residence to mold growth or pest infestation. This is where an expert comes in to determine if just a repair or an entire siding replacement is needed.
Why Local Climate Matters
Northern New Jersey has a distinct combination of salt-laden air, high humidity levels, and chilly winter conditions. This accelerates material wear and tear, necessitating physical inspections as a priority rather than a luxury.
If the house is over 20 years old, it may not meet current energy-efficiency requirements. A quality siding replacement in Essex, NJ, can help it stay warmer and lower heating bills.
The Dangers of Concealed Mold
As water enters between damaged siding panels due to weather or poor construction, mold and mildew begin to grow in these areas because they are moist and lack sunlight. Once mold and mildew start to grow in these areas, they may infiltrate wall cavities and reduce indoor air quality.
Every post-winter check should also involve examining the J-channels and window and door trim. That is where ice is apt to form and where water intrusion occurs most frequently.
Evaluating Your Options
While looking for a good siding replacement near you, it is essential to select a team of professionals who are well-versed in local construction regulations. This will ensure that they design a replacement that can handle our local wind pressure.
Compared with what was used a few decades ago, newer siding materials are much more durable for the climate in North Jersey. Adding new siding to your home can give it a fresh appearance and increase its value.
Professional Inspection Advantages
An experienced eye can detect the slightest bending, or “oil canning,” caused by improper siding installation or heat-induced siding distress. Early detection also obviates the need for an urgent siding replacement when the next hurricane season arrives.
Professionals in the local area know precisely where to look for the telltale signs of water damage that homeowners often miss. It offers homeowners a tremendous sense of relief and direction in maintaining their home’s exterior.
Long-Term Protection
One of the most effective ways to prevent future structural damage is to invest in your home’s exterior. Not to forget the unpredictable weather we receive every year, quality materials are the shield against it.
Putting off repairs can mean that bigger projects need to be completed on the house’s actual frame. Siding repairs completed on schedule will ensure your home stays safe, dry, and looking good year-round.
Take Action for Your Home
Don’t let the more subtle effects of winter storms compromise your property’s safety and value. If you suspect your home has sustained any damage, professional guidance is just a phone call away.
We encourage you to hire KRR General Contractor for an expert evaluation of your home’s exterior. Our team understands the specific requirements for homes in Northern New Jersey and provides reliable solutions accordingly.
Contact KRR General Contractor today with any questions or to schedule a thorough siding inspection.