We come across all sorts of vinyl siding problems in the London OH area, and our roofing experts are here to help you prevent them!
Vinyl siding remains a top choice for homeowners in London, Ohio thanks to its durability, affordability and low-maintenance features.
However, while vinyl is resilient, it’s not invincible—and this is especially the case when homeowners inevitably face Ohio’s fluctuating weather and seasonal extremes.
Whether your vinyl siding is a few years old or recently installed, it’s absolutely essential to know about some of the most common siding issues (and how to avoid them) in order to extend its lifespan and protect your home from costly repairs.
This is exactly why we’re detailing five of the most common vinyl siding problems in the London OH area in the below sections, as well as detailed information and practical tips to help you prevent these issues altogether!
1. Buckling & Warped Siding
One common issue that a lot of homeowners grapple with is the simple fact that vinyl expands and contracts with temperature changes.
This means that if it’s nailed too tightly during installation, it won’t have quite enough room to move—which sometimes results in panels warping or buckling. Here in Central Ohio, the mix of our hot, humid summers and freezing winters creates added stress on improperly installed vinyl siding.
Some tips to prevent buckling and warping siding include:
- Hiring experienced roofing contractors who fully understand how to “float” vinyl siding by leaving the perfect amount of room for subtle movements.
- Avoid DIY vinyl installations, unless you’ve been adequately trained in vinyl siding installation and maintenance best practices.
- Keep siding in ventilated or shaded areas when possible, and don’t use dark colors when painting over vinyl. Dark paint colors tend to trap heat, which increases warping risks.
2. Siding That Becomes Cracked or Brittle in Cold Weather
Vinyl is known for becoming more brittle as temperatures suddenly drop. This means that unfortunate cracking issues can sometimes arise from even light impacts during the winter, including common examples like a rock being kicked up by a snowblower or a wayward basketball.
This is a common siding issue here in London due to our frigid winter temperatures and occasional ice storms, and this is particularly an issue for our area’s older homes.
Some tips to prevent siding brittleness and cracking in cold weather include:
- Inspecting your siding during the fall months and repairing minor damages prior to winter.
- Prioritizing high-quality vinyl siding that’s rated for cold-weather climates.
- Keeping snow and landscaping equipment a safe distance away from your exterior walls to avoid accidents.
3. Mildew, Mold & Algae Growth on Vinyl Siding
Another common problem associated with vinyl siding is that it can potentially accumulate moisture, and this is particularly problematic on north-facing walls or under trees where sunlight is limited.
This lack of sunlight encourages mold, mildew, or green algae to grow, especially during Ohio’s humid months. And it’s no secret how Central Ohio gets plenty of rain and humidity during the spring and summer, which just so happens to develop perfect conditions for biological growth.
Here are some tips to prevent mold, mildew and algae growth on your home’s siding:
- Thoroughly clean your siding at least once per year with a soft-bristle brush or garden hose.
- Use a solution of water and vinegar/detergent to effectively remove organic buildup from your siding.
- Trim trees and shrubs around your property to increase sun exposure onto your siding.
4. Faded or Discolored Siding
It’s also common for vinyl siding to fade over long periods of time, and this is especially common when siding is exposed to excessive amounts of UV rays. Although our area doesn’t get intense sun during all seasons of the year, our prolonged summers can sometimes lead to noticeable fading on aging siding.
Here are some tips to prevent discolored or faded siding at your London property:
- Choosing siding with UV-resistant coatings, or longer color warranties.
- Lighter siding shades fade much slower than darker tones, which is something that homeowners should keep in mind if long-term aesthetics are a priority.
- Avoid harsh chemical cleaners that can potentially degrade vinyl surfaces.
5. Missing or Loose Siding Panels After Severe Storms
Strong winds storms can loosen or rip vinyl siding panels, and this is especially the case if they weren’t securely fastened.
Missing panels leave your home vulnerable to moisture and pest intrusion, and Central Ohio is known to have severe wind gusts and thunderstorms that can stress poorly attached siding.
Some ways to prevent loose or missing panels after severe storms include:
- Performing post-storm inspections to catch damages as early as possible.
- Promptly reinforcing loose panels and replacing broken siding pieces.
- Ensuring proper siding installations, which includes appropriate spacing and nails.
Reach Out To The Roofs By Warren Team When You Need Vinyl Siding Services At Your Home In London, OH!
Vinyl siding is undoubtedly a smart, long-term investment for homeowners in the London, OH area, but it isn’t entirely maintenance-free.
The key to keeping your siding looking sharp and performing well is preventative care and quick repairs when problems arise, and all of us at Roofs by Warren understand just how important routine upkeep and professional inspections are for properties with siding.
If you’re currently unsure about the condition of your home’s siding and you suspect any lingering issues, reach out to us online or give us a call at 740-209-0555 to get in touch with our siding experts in London OH today!