How to Prevent Siding Rot
Moisture and rot are like cancer to a home, resulting in anything from bugs to structural damage. If left unchecked, it can run rampant, causing more and more damage with every storm. Learn more about siding rot and protecting your Central Massachusetts home.
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Preventing siding rot is important, but in the event the damage has already been done, you need to partner with a skilled siding contractor in Central MA for repair and replacement.
After we explore siding rot prevention tips for your home, we will take a look at a recent client of ours who lives in Westborough MA to illustrate how important it is to let a seasoned professional handle the removal, repair or replacement of your rotted or damaged siding.
Siding rot: a homeowner’s enemy
Siding is an important component of any exterior, as it serves to protect the home and everything inside it against the elements. It acts as a first line of defense in climates with harsh winters and humid summers like we have here in Central MA. However, without regular maintenance and inspections, your siding could be susceptible to wood rot.
Today we will take a look at siding rot, its causes, and best practices for preventing it. We’ll also show you a case study of a Westborough MA home for which we recently replaced rotted siding with fiber cement.
Understanding siding rot and its causes
Wood siding is particularly susceptible to rot, but even vinyl and other materials can degrade over time. This condition happens due to a combination of moisture and poor exposure to direct sunlight. Because wood in particular is very porous, it can trap moisture which will then cause it to essentially disintegrate from within. Fungi can eat away at the wood further, allowing for the infiltration of bugs. Insects such as termites do their own damage, eating through the wood and causing even more structural damage.
Key causes of siding rot in Central MA include:
Weather: Rain, snow, and humidity
Poor installation or improper sealing
Inadequate drainage or poor ventilation
Organic material build-up (leaves and dirt)
If you start to see signs such as warping, insect infestation, spongy wood, or mildew buildup, there’s a good chance your wood siding is rotting. Ignoring it will only worsen the matter.
Best practices for preventing siding rot in Central MA
As a homeowner, there are some things you can do to prevent or minimize siding rot on your Central MA home.
Keep up with home maintenance:
Inspect your home exterior twice a year and after severe storms. Ignoring issues or putting off this maintenance could cause the wood on your home exterior to become further exposed.
Schedule regular Inspections:
Inspect your siding at least once a year in spring and fall. Be on the lookout for signs of damage such as cracks, mold, mildew, or warping. To spot early signs of rot before it spreads, check for discolored wood, a soft texture when pressed, visible fungal growth (white or yellow patches), cracks or splintering, or musty odor.
Ensure proper drainage:
Maintain proper ventilation:
Airflow around siding helps to prevent moisture buildup. You can achieve that by installing soffit vents and ensuring proper attic airflow, and by installing breathable materials like fiber cement or vinyl.
Seal and protect your siding:
Caulk and seal gaps where water can penetrate, and apply protective coatings or paints to prevent moisture damage, especially for wood siding. Regularly re-stain or paint to maintain a barrier.
Clean and remove debris regularly:
Keeping your siding clean and free of organic debris is essential in safeguarding your home against rot. Use a soft brush or pressure washer (at low settings) to clean siding without causing damage. Clear leaves and plant matter from siding, gutters, and ground level.
Caulk your home exterior:
This material prevents water from penetrating siding and therefore guards against wood rot behind the siding.
Check for stains under eaves and on interior ceilings:
You may have a roof leak, which could contribute to siding rot.
Trim back shrubbery:
Be sure to keep shrubbery at least three feet away from siding.
Install James Hardie siding:
This type of siding is specially designed to resist wood rot, sparing you the hassle of insect infestation and moisture penetration. Bonus: it is also fire resistant.
The Experience
Our client met with Freddy Campoverde, COO and co-founder of Golden Group Roofing, multiple times, and together they designed the most suitable system from the James Hardie fiber cement line for her home.
Initially, their consultation focused on creating a virtual design and visualization of the home’s appearance. After discussing accessories such as new doors and windows that would complement and enhance the exterior, they finalized the design.
When Freddy visited the property with the homeowner, they discussed the significance of using the right tools and training when working with James Hardie. This is where most contractors fail James Hardie projects because they use incorrect cutting mechanisms and tools. If James Hardie ever faces issues or problems, it’s always due to craftsmanship errors because the product is designed to withstand any weather conditions.
Freddy and the homeowner spent a considerable amount of time explaining and discussing the specific tools and training required for working with five men. They also emphasized the annual training that the team undergoes to ensure they understand how to handle fiber cement, especially when dealing with trims and transitional points in the home.
After receiving building firms and finalizing the customer’s vision, the project began. However, during the construction phase, a rot developed on the back deck, necessitating support. The team collaborated with a general contractor to ensure that the rotting deck was not installed against the new James Hardie fiber cement.
It takes a village
Working with Golden Group offers several advantages for customers. Most importantly, it allows us to swiftly address complications while maintaining the project deadline. The Westborough homeowner then partnered with our Golden Group electrician to install all exterior lighting components, enhancing the property’s accents and illuminating it, especially in the evenings.
Comparing the property before and after the renovation, it’s remarkable that the home now resembles a new construction colonial.
When to consider siding replacement
Wood rot can happen quickly. As you can see from the case study above, our client’s home was only 25 years old. Once you start to spot signs of rot, it’s important to consult with a siding contractor in Central MA promptly to address the concerning areas and provide a recommendation.
Signs that your siding may need replacement include extensive rot, mold, or structural damage. Fortunately, choosing high-quality materials like James Hardie fiber cement can prevent future issues while beautifying your property and elevating its value.
If you suspect you have siding rot, the next step is to call a siding contractor in Central MA for an in-depth inspection. Here at Golden Group Roofing, our certified contractors can help with maintenance and long-term solutions when it comes to your new fiber cement siding.
Get a FREE estimate on fiber cement siding today
We welcome you to schedule your free appointment online or call us at (508) 873-1884 for a quote and consultation on fiber cement siding for your Central MA home. Whether your existing siding is experiencing rot or you just need a change, our team can transform your home into a showpiece you can be proud of.
