A Short Guide to Water Damage Behind Vinyl Siding
Though most people think of their roofs as the main protective element of their homes, siding can be just as crucial! Vinyl siding has become incredibly popular for homeowners due to its looks and practicality, however, that doesn’t mean it’s immune to the challenges posed by water damage.
At Tevelde and Co., we understand the importance of maintaining a safe and sound exterior, which is why we’ve created this short guide to help you recognize and address water intrusion and damage that may lurk unseen behind your home’s siding! Reach out to our team today for more information and a free inspection.
Home / Siding / Water Damage
Water and Moisture Damage Can Pose Danger for Your House
Beyond the fact that it hurts curb appeal and appearance, water damage behind your vinyl siding can pose a real threat to the structural integrity of your home. Moisture trapped behind the siding can cause dry rot, deterioration, and mold growth, which can be expensive to repair and unsafe for your family to live within!
- A Short Guide to Water Damage Behind Vinyl Siding
- Dangers of Water Damage for Vinyl Siding
- Deterioration
- Mold Growth and Stains
- Peeling Paint
- Causes of Water Damage Behind Siding
- Poor Drainage
- Cracked or Damaged Siding
- Why Tevelde and Co. is a Trusted Vinyl Siding Contractor in Omaha
Deterioration of Your Siding
When water seeps behind the vinyl panels on your home, it doesn’t just stay there. If left untreated, it’ll erode the siding material, which can eventually lead to warping, cracking, or swelling of your siding panels. Not only can this affect the exterior aesthetic of your home, but it can also diminish your siding’s protective capabilities.
Mold Growth and Water Stains
Untreated moisture in your home can create a favorable environment for mold and mildew to thrive. Unfortunately, these fungi can pose health risks, particularly to those with allergies or respiratory issues. Mold is like wildfire and can spread quickly – if it reaches the air ducts and living spaces, it can further compromise the air quality in your residence.
Rotten Wood and Framing
Left undetected for extended periods, significant water leaks behind vinyl siding can lead to extensive wood rot, affecting not only the plywood sheathing but also the structural framing. In severe cases, vinyl siding leaks can necessitate substantial repairs, including extensive siding removal, replacement of rotted plywood, insulation, and even structural framing in the affected area.
Common Causes of Water-Damaged Siding
Knowing where your home’s water issues stem from is the first step in resolving them. Here are a few of the most common causes of water-damaged siding for Nebraskans.
Damaged or Missing House Wrap
The absence or improper installation of house wrap is a leading cause of leaks behind vinyl siding. House wrap, a water-resistant material applied before the siding, acts as a critical barrier. Its taped edges and seams create a continuous surface that channels water away from the building. While vinyl siding repels water, it’s not entirely waterproof. House wrap plays a vital role in protecting your home’s walls from water intrusion. Damaged or missing house wrap allows water to penetrate the wall system, potentially leading to significant problems.
Flashing Round Vinyl Siding
Improperly installed or neglected flashing and transitions are another significant cause of leaks behind vinyl siding. Z-flashing, a custom-made metal component, is crucial at junctions where siding meets windows or doors. It should be installed behind the house wrap and extend outward over the window frame. Flawed installation or lack of maintenance in these areas can lead to water infiltration.
Similarly, transitions between siding and roofing materials are potential leak points. Here, house wrap should be carefully sealed or integrated over the existing roof flashing. Unfortunately, this area is often overlooked, making it a frequent source of siding leaks.
Aged or Cracked Vinyl Siding
Over time, vinyl siding panels can become brittle and less resilient to the elements. While this usually takes somewhere between 25-30 years for quality siding, it’s something you’ll eventually have to consider as a homeowner. Aging, cracked, or loose siding is particularly susceptible to water infiltration, as these defects make room for moisture to seep in behind the panels. One of the best ways to mitigate this is by planning regular inspections! Our vinyl siding experts can help identify these vulnerabilities early and replace damaged sections of the siding to prevent extensive damage throughout the years.
Tevelde and Co. Can Provide Top-Rated Vinyl Siding Solutions in Omaha
Siding plays a major role in protecting your home’s exterior in Omaha, which is why we use nothing but the highest-quality materials and the latest installation techniques! Our team can ensure that your siding is both beautiful and long-lasting – read more about our top-rated solutions below!
Trusted Home Exterior Solutions Since 2013
Since our inception in 2013, we’ve worked on projects of all sizes, and one thing we’ve learned is that no job is too big or too small. With a great track record of client satisfaction, our team of experts has become a staple in the greater Omaha area! From simple repairs to complete new siding overhauls, we can provide reliable exterior solutions of all shapes and sizes.
Professional Siding Installation, Repairs, and Replacements
As stated above, our experienced contractors at Tevelde and Co. specialize in all aspects of siding installation, repair, and replacement. No matter the solutions you’re looking for, you can trust us to be your go-to siding and exteriors company!
We Offer a Full Suite of Exterior Vinyl Siding Services
Beyond our vinyl siding leak detection, we are proud to offer a comprehensive range of exterior vinyl siding services designed to maintain and enhance your home’s exterior. Since your siding connects to both your roofing and windows, we offer professional care and provision to handle all your exterior needs.
A+ Rating with the Better Business Bureau
We’re deeply committed to quality and customer satisfaction, which is why we’ve been given an A+ rating by the Better Business Bureau! When you choose Tevelde and Co., you are choosing a company that is recognized for its integrity and reliability in the local home improvement industry.
Proud to Be a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor
As a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor in Omaha, Tevelde and Co. has earned outstanding recognition for installing high-quality James Hardie siding products for homeowners. This designation is only awarded to contractors who meet rigorous standards for installation quality and customer satisfaction! When you work with us, you can ensure that your siding will not only look fantastic but also offer superior protection and durability for years to come. Learn more about James Hardie siding here!
Check Out Our Vinyl Siding Projects Gallery
Take a look at our gallery to see our past siding projects and the kind of quality and craftsmanship that Tevelde and Co. brings to every job. With experience working on a variety of homes in different styles across Omaha, you can see how our siding solutions can transform any home!
Financing Is Available.
Sometimes Home Remodeling projects can’t wait, or you just want to make all your updates at once. Get the financing you need with approved credit and check out our special offers to make the most of your home remodeling dollars.