Your home’s siding is your main protection against the elements. Any weak points in the material allow moisture to become trapped inside the sheetrock and frame, causing damage to your home’s structure and interior. When damage gets too bad, you’ll notice problems inside your home, but how do you recognize the early signs of damage to your siding? Here are six of the most common signs to watch out for.

Aging: The signs of aging siding will vary depending on the type of material used. Wood may warp due to heat and moisture while vinyl may show signs of warping due to sun damage. Constant exposure to changing weather and conditions will eventually cause damage to your siding.

Mold and Rot: Damaged siding is no longer effective at keeping moisture out of the interior of your home. When this happens, you may notice mold on your walls or a pervasive, musty smell throughout your home. If this happens, call your contractor. The mold and rot can affect the integrity of your home’s framing.

Water Stains: Water stains on your siding will appear as discolored spots or streaking along the panels. These stains are caused by water entering the siding and becoming trapped between the siding and the drywall.

Rusted or Missing Nails: When your siding was installed, your contractor used nails to fix the panels in place. When nails go missing, the siding becomes vulnerable to wind and can easily fall off the structure. If nails are rusted, it signifies that moisture has seeped into the siding. Over time, these nails can leave rust stains on the siding.

Pests: While vinyl and aluminum siding are not affected by termites, wood siding can easily be destroyed by the insects. If you see signs of termite damage or hear sounds of rodents in your walls, there may be a weak point in the siding where they’re entering. Look for holes or loose siding panels and call your contractor.

If you see any of these signs in your siding, contact the experts at Urban Siding. We’re the top rated local siding company in Airdrie.

Now that winter has passed, many people in the Calgary area are looking to replace their old or damaged roof. Replacing your roof is not a simple undertaking. Your old roof has to be removed and new material laid down. However, before you get the replacement, you’ll have to pick out the right material for your new roof. While your contractor will be able to offer suggestions based on your budget, having an idea of what you’re looking for can help expedite the process. Here are a few things to consider before you schedule your estimate.

Appearance

Your roof’s appearance will largely depend on the type of shingle you select. Wood shingles give a more rustic look while metal sheeting provides a contemporary and durable style. If you want a more standard look, consider using asphalt shingles. These shingles are available in a wide range of colors sure to tie in with your home’s look.

Material

Roofing materials are all designed to protect your home, but some offer distinct benefits over others. Metal roofs offer fire and wind resistance, but can be damaged by hail. Wood shingles require frequent maintenance, but are great for windy areas. If you’re unsure of what you need, ask your Urban Siding roofer for advice.

Budget

Your budget will often be a determining factor in the type of material you choose for your roof. While wood shingles give your home a natural look, they’re more expensive than asphalt options. Fortunately, many asphalt shingles can mimic the aesthetics of more expensive material, making it easier to achieve the look you want without going over budget.