Many homeowners take great pains to keep their lawns and walkways looking fresh and clean, while neglecting other aspects of their home’s exterior. It is often taken for granted that the siding on a house will last for years, without extensive maintenance or regular attention. While it may be a pleasant thought, it simply isn’t true. Siding of any kind – vinyl, wood, aluminum or concrete – all require their own special forms of maintenance. The consequences of allowing these tasks to fall through the cracks can be more far-reaching than you might imagine.

The maintenance required by your siding will be based on the materials used. Wood siding, for instance, should be weather and pressure treated. It should be monitored regularly for rot and insects like termites. The damage from these little critters can be extensive and very costly to repair. If the wood is painted, then keep a wary eye out for chips and fading. These signs of wear can be resolved easily if they are caught early enough.

Vinyl is perhaps the most popular and versatile material used for home siding. It is available in a seemingly endless variety of styles and colors, many of which are environmentally friendly and easy to maintain. Thanks to new “green” initiatives, most vinyl siding is now made of recyclable or recycled material, making it environmentally friendly in most its make-up and energy efficiency. While vinyl can begin to show dirt and age after extended exposure to the elements, it can be easily cleaned with a pressure washer and some non-toxic detergent. However, it can be susceptible to severe weather such as high winds and hail. In instances where replacement is necessary, homeowner’s insurance will often cover the costs of both materials and labor.

Rock and cement siding are less common that vinyl and wood, but often make a bolder statement. Repairs to these types of siding can be costly, and should be handled by a professional. Since materials such as stone are more likely to be found on larger homes, the cleaning and maintenance process can be expected to take longer. On the other hand, these materials possess a natural resistance to the elements and should require replacement less frequently.

Regardless of the kind of siding you choose, keeping it clean and in good shape can add significant value to your home and improve the overall curb appeal of your property. A number of factors can influence the amount of effort required to keep your siding looking new and snappy – climate, pollution, age and the habits of previous owners can all factor into the maintenance needs of your home’s exterior. So, when you’re hosing down the sidewalks and cutting the lawn, take a few extra minutes to do a walk-around. Check for wear, dirt and damage to your home’s siding. Addressing the problems before they worsen can save a great deal of time, effort and money later.

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