Siding is the outer coverings and exterior building material on a home. Vinyl siding is the most common type used for home siding. Home siding provides the protection from the elements such as wind, rain and snow. It’s siding also adds aesthetic beauty to the home. There are several signs of animal tampering in siding and repairs may need to be made to protect the integrity of your home.

Vinyl Siding Damage

Damage due to wind, rain and snow can occur quickly. This type of damage can cause holes in vinyl siding or cause cracks in other vinyl siding materials. The most immediate signs of damage are cracks or gaps. Home siding repair companies use chemicals and heat to correct these problems. Unfortunately, vinyl siding does not have the same protection against UV rays as other materials do.

Animal Tampering

Animal tampering in a siding repair can range from small cracks to complete breakage. Animal tampering is often an early sign of deterioration in the vinyl siding. Signs of animal damage often manifest themselves when a small crack is repaired only to soon afterwards appear larger and much more threatening. If you notice small cracks or gaps, call a home siding repair company immediately. Homeowners who don’t call attention to small damage that appears might not notice it again until the vinyl siding begins to crack. When the vinyl begins to deteriorate before you’re able to repair it, you are left with the option of replacing the entire damaged area or waiting until the cost of the replacement is lower.

Brick Siding

Brick or stone chips that occur due to weathering can also cause water penetration into the home’s interior. These cracks will eventually expand into large cracks if left unfixed. Water penetration is a problem because it allows humidity in the surrounding air to get inside and contribute to mildew and mold growth. Small cracks and openings allow some air flow but mold and mildew quickly grow within a crack or hole.

Signs of mold can also be found on exterior siding repair. Look for black or greenish stains that may have dried and turned blacker. Some signs of mildew include gray or brown patches on the siding. It’s important to look for these signs because mold grows best in a damp or dark environment. While you’re looking at the outside of the house, look also at the inside. Exterior siding repair shouldn’t be rushed because of small signs of damage.

Homeowners may also notice rotting or cracking paint near the exterior siding where a repair might be needed. Look for small repairs near windowsills, gutters, window frames, skylights, doorways, and other areas. Any sign of damage should be addressed right away before it gets worse.