Christian Construction is a siding company in Staten Island, serving most of NYC and parts of New Jersey. You can always trust us to make sure that you’re treated fairly, with some of the lowest prices and highest quality service in the region.
Part of our commitment to our customers is that we will always take the fairest and most conservative approach to caring for your property, never charging you more than you need to be charged or pushing you to services that you do not need. But there are going to be situations in which you call us for siding repair, and we have to strongly recommend that you get siding replacement instead. When that occurs, it is because we noticed something that needs serious attention.
Common Signs That Something is Wrong with Your Siding
Long before we decide whether to repair or replace siding, we first give it a full inspection. This inspection is designed to notice all the problems that may be occurring with your siding, and get an idea of the issues that are occurring – not only those that you see, but those you may not. For example:
- Cracks and Gaps – Small cracks or gaps can often be repaired, but extensive damage may indicate a need for replacement.
- Warping and Buckling – Warped or buckled siding can signal deeper issues, such as moisture infiltration.
- Rot and Mold – Rotting or moldy siding can compromise your home’s structural integrity and require more than just spot repairs.
- Fading and Peeling – While fading is mostly an aesthetic issue, peeling paint can expose the underlying material to the elements.
- High Energy Bills – Increased energy costs can indicate that your siding is not insulating your home effectively.
Identifying these – with a little feedback from you – can help us determine the issues at play and whether or not they can be easily fixed.
When Is a Siding Repair Sufficient?
There will be many situations where all that is needed is a little bit of repair. Minor damage can be isolated and addressed with only simple fixes that won’t hurt your budget. For example:
- Small Cracks and Holes
For small cracks or holes, a patch or sealant can effectively restore the siding’s integrity. This is particularly true for materials like vinyl or fiber cement, which can be easily patched.
- Limited Areas of Damage
If the damage is confined to a small area, such as a single board or panel, replacing just that section can be a cost-effective solution. This approach works well for localized issues like minor impacts or storm damage.
- Cosmetic Issues
Cosmetic problems, such as slight fading or peeling paint, can often be resolved with repainting or resealing. This can restore the siding’s appearance without the need for extensive work.
In these scenarios, repair work can extend the life of your siding and maintain your home’s appearance.
When Does Siding Need to Be Replaced?
When we can repair it, we will. But there are other conditions that warrant a full siding replacement rather than a repair. Sometimes the replacement will be lightly recommended as a good idea based on the assessment. Other times, it is an absolute necessity – and sometimes when it’s a necessity, it may not be something that you notice offhand. This may occur when the issues are:
- Recurrent Issues
There are situations in which a minor repair is indicative to a much larger, recurring problem. For example, if the siding is simply falling apart because it’s getting old and was not properly installed, the repair can push the issue out further, but you are likely to continue to need repairs in the near future. In these situations, we may do the repair, but we may let you know that it’s time to plan for a full siding replacement at least somewhere down the road.
- Extensive Damage
When damage is widespread, such as large cracks, multiple holes, or significant warping across many sections, replacing the entire siding is often more practical. Repairing extensive damage can be as costly and time-consuming as a full replacement, without providing the same long-term benefits.
- Structural Compromise
If the underlying structure of your home has been compromised due to siding damage, such as rot or mold infiltrating the walls, a complete replacement is necessary. Addressing only the surface issues without resolving the structural damage can lead to more significant problems down the line.
- Moisture and Water Damage
Persistent moisture problems, evidenced by frequent mold growth, rot, or interior wall damage, indicate that the siding is no longer providing adequate protection. In such cases, replacing the siding ensures a fresh, moisture-resistant barrier.
- Inefficiency and High Energy Bills
Older or damaged siding can lead to poor insulation, resulting in higher energy bills. If your siding is significantly affecting your home’s energy efficiency, a replacement can improve insulation and reduce energy costs.
- Aesthetic Overhaul
When the siding is heavily faded, warped, or peeling beyond repair, and impacts your home’s curb appeal, replacing it can restore and enhance the appearance of your home. This is especially important if you plan to sell your property, as new siding can significantly boost its market value. If you’re planning on selling your home any time soon, this may actually be something that helps you get more value from your property and make selling the property faster.
Making the Right Choice for Your Property
Determining whether your siding needs repair or replacement depends on the extent of the damage and the condition of the underlying structure. Minor, localized issues can often be addressed with repairs, while extensive damage, structural compromise, and persistent moisture problems typically require a complete replacement. Christian Construction takes on projects both large and small, and so there is no risk for calling us for a siding repair. We’ll take a look at the siding, make sure that it can be repaired, and help you continue onward without a full replacement. But if we do see that your siding is in desperate need of additional work, you can trust that we’re giving you an honest assessment with no obligation to move forward. For more information, or to get started, please contact us today.
