If you’ve noticed cracks, holes, or leaks on your vinyl siding, it’s time for repair work. The cost of fixing your home’s cladding depends on the type and extent of the damage.
The cheapest option for most Siding Repair Charleston SC is a simple patch with caulk. More severe damage requires replacing the entire siding panel.
Cracks
If you have any cracks in your vinyl siding, it’s best to repair them as soon as possible. Those cracks can let rainwater in between your home’s panels, which can cause damage to the wood underneath and lead to rot.
If there are only small cracks in your siding, you can fix them with vinyl caulk. But if the damage is larger, you’ll likely need to replace it altogether.
In this case, you’ll need a piece of siding that matches the rest of your home’s siding. You usually find leftover pieces from the last time your home was sided.
You can also purchase a patch kit in a color that closely matches your existing siding. This is a good option for smaller holes and is much cheaper than buying new siding.
Holes
Holes in siding can be a big deal, as they let in water and debris that should stay outside. They can also allow pests and mold to take hold of the home.
Fortunately, there are a few easy DIY repair options for holes in vinyl siding. Smaller holes can be fixed with exterior caulk that matches your siding, but larger ones need a patch.
Another simple method is to cut a new piece of siding long enough to cover the damage. Choosing a longer piece means that seams are farther away, making the repair less noticeable.
Then, cut the top and bottom edge of the patch to size, removing the nailing strip on the upper and a curved bottom lip on the lower edge. Using a zip tool, hook the lower edge of the replacement panel to the upper one’s nailing flange and reinstall it into place. Repeat with each replacement section until you’ve used up the damaged pieces.
Leaks
Water leaks in vinyl siding can negatively affect your home’s overall exterior. They can cause damage to the wood sheathing underneath, and they can also lead to mold growth and rot.
If you’re looking for a simple way to repair water leaking behind your siding, you might consider squirting some water at it from a hose. That can help you spot where the leaks are and see if they’re getting larger.
Let a professional handle this job for you is best since small cracks and gaps can be difficult to seal up on your own.
If water leaks behind your siding, it’s important to replace the damaged boards immediately. This is particularly true if the panels are cracked or broken and need to be tightly attached to your home. Otherwise, they could be easily displaced during a storm. You should also check your gutters to ensure they’re free from clogs, which can help prevent water leaks.
Stains
In Vinyl Siding Repair Charleston SC, stains can be a frustrating problem. They can make the repaired area look different from the surrounding area, especially if it’s a replacement piece that’s not an exact match.
The good news is that there are ways to get rid of stains. The first step is to determine the cause of the stain.
For instance, rust stains are usually caused by a metal roof or gutter. If you can find the source of these stains, you can use a rust-resistant primer and paint to make them disappear.
For more stubborn stains, try a mixture of bleach and water. Mix one bleach to five parts of water and apply it to the color with a long scrub brush. Rinse thoroughly with water to remove any bleach residue.