Siding and Extreme Weather: How to Protect Your Home’s Exterior

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Your home’s siding is more than just a decorative feature—it’s your first line of defense against the elements. From scorching summer heat to torrential rain, snow, and wind, extreme weather can take a toll on your siding over time. Without proper protection and maintenance, your home could be vulnerable to damage, leading to costly repairs and reduced energy efficiency.

For over a decade, Rescue My Roof has been a leader in the siding industry. We help homeowners provide the ultimate protection for their homes. We’re here to help you, too. 

In this article, we’ll discuss how siding stands up to extreme weather conditions and what steps you can take to protect your home’s exterior. Ultimately, you’ll know how to protect your home’s exterior from severe weather. 

4 Ways to Protect Your Siding from Extreme Weather

Extreme weather can be really stressful. Having to deal with costly home repairs should be the last thing you deal with. Luckily, extreme storm damage can be prevented.

Here are four tips to help your home handle the toughest of storms:

1. Choosing the Right Siding Material for Your Climate

One of the most important decisions you can make is selecting the right siding material for your region’s climate. Different materials offer varying levels of resistance to weather conditions:

• Vinyl Siding: Popular for its affordability and low maintenance, vinyl siding is durable and resistant to moisture, but extreme cold can make it more brittle and prone to cracking. It’s a good choice for areas with mild to moderate climates.
• Fiber Cement Siding: Known for its exceptional durability, fiber cement can withstand harsh weather conditions, including heavy rain, snow, and even wildfire zones. It’s resistant to rot, insects, and doesn’t expand or contract significantly with temperature changes.
• Wood Siding: While wood siding offers a classic, natural look, it requires more maintenance in extreme weather. It is prone to rot, warping, and insect damage in wet or humid climates and can crack or shrink in extremely dry conditions.
• Metal Siding: Aluminum or steel siding is highly resistant to weather damage, including hail and wind, but it may dent under impact. Metal is also fire-resistant, making it a good option for areas prone to wildfires.
• Engineered Wood: This siding mimics the look of wood but is treated to resist rot, pests, and moisture. It holds up well in various climates but may require more frequent maintenance than vinyl or fiber cement.

2. How Extreme Weather Affects Siding

Understanding how different weather conditions impact siding can help you take preventive measures to protect your home.

• Heavy Rain and Moisture: Water infiltration is one of the biggest threats to your siding. Prolonged exposure to rain can lead to wood rot, mold growth, and structural damage. Proper installation of moisture barriers and caulking around windows and doors is essential to prevent water from seeping behind the siding.
• High Winds: Wind can cause loose or improperly installed siding to peel away from your home. In severe cases, strong gusts may rip panels off entirely, exposing the home’s interior to the elements. Ensuring your siding is securely fastened and using high-quality, wind-resistant materials can protect against wind damage.
• Snow and Ice: Cold weather can cause siding materials like vinyl to become brittle and crack. In regions with heavy snowfall, ice dams can form on the roof and meltwater can seep behind siding, leading to water damage. Regularly clearing snow and ice from your roof and ensuring proper insulation and ventilation can help prevent ice dams from forming.
• Hail: Hail can cause significant damage to siding, particularly softer materials like vinyl or aluminum, leaving dents, cracks, or holes. Fiber cement and engineered wood siding are more resistant to hail damage. After a hailstorm, inspect your siding for visible damage and address any issues immediately.
• Extreme Heat: High temperatures can cause vinyl siding to warp or buckle, especially if it is installed too tightly. Metal siding may absorb heat, making your home hotter in the summer. Choosing heat-resistant materials and ensuring proper ventilation can help your siding perform better in hot climates.
• Wildfires: In areas prone to wildfires, choosing fire-resistant siding materials such as fiber cement or metal can provide an added layer of protection. These materials are non-combustible and can help slow the spread of fire.

3. Protecting Your Siding Against Extreme Weather

Here are some key strategies to protect your home’s siding from extreme weather:

• Routine Maintenance: Regularly inspect your siding for signs of damage, such as cracks, loose panels, or discoloration. Address minor issues before they become major problems. Clean your siding annually to remove dirt, mold, and mildew that can weaken the material.
• Proper Installation: Siding that’s installed incorrectly is more vulnerable to weather damage. Ensure your siding is installed by a professional who follows manufacturer guidelines, including proper nailing, spacing, and flashing to prevent water infiltration.
• Use a Weather-Resistant Barrier: A weather-resistant barrier (WRB) or house wrap installed underneath your siding helps protect your home’s structure from moisture and wind. This barrier acts as a secondary defense if water or air penetrates the siding.
• Caulking and Sealing: Over time, caulking around windows, doors, and siding joints can degrade. Re-caulk these areas regularly to maintain a watertight seal. This prevents water from seeping into your home and helps improve energy efficiency.
• Gutter Maintenance: Keeping your gutters clean and functional prevents water from spilling over and saturating the siding. Clogged gutters can lead to water pooling around your home’s foundation or siding, increasing the risk of water damage.
• Wind and Storm-Resistant Siding: If you live in an area prone to hurricanes or severe storms, consider siding materials rated for high wind resistance. Vinyl and fiber cement siding are available in wind-resistant versions that can withstand gusts of up to 150 mph or more.
• Protect Against Ice Dams: In cold climates, ensure your attic is well-insulated and ventilated to prevent the formation of ice dams. Ice dams can trap meltwater, which can then seep behind your siding and cause damage.

4. Post-Storm Inspection and Repair

After any extreme weather event, it’s essential to inspect your siding for damage. Look for the following signs:

• Cracks or splits in the siding
• Loose or missing panels
• Water stains or signs of moisture infiltration
• Warped or buckled panels

If you notice any of these issues, contact a professional siding contractor to assess the damage and make necessary repairs. Prompt attention to minor issues can prevent more extensive—and expensive—damage in the future.

Protecting Your Home

Your home’s siding is designed to protect your home, but extreme weather can test its limits. Choosing the right siding material, ensuring proper installation, and conducting regular maintenance can keep your siding in top shape and shield your home from harsh weather conditions. 

By staying proactive and addressing potential issues early, you can extend the lifespan of your siding and protect your home for years to come.

If you’re considering upgrading your siding or need help with repairs after a storm, contact a professional contractor who can provide expert guidance on the best materials and practices for your climate.

Learn more with “How to Protect Your Roof from Storm Damage: 10 Essential Tips for Homeowners” or “Does Insurance Cover Hail Damage? Know Your Options.”

Is your roof or siding the cause of costly home repairs? Rescue My Roof can help you protect your home from the next storm. Contact us today to get a free roofing or siding estimate.