The right choice of siding can make a world of difference in the look of your home. New siding is beautiful and clean, but a crisp appearance doesn%u2019t necessarily last forever.

Understanding the conditions that cause siding to buckle is significant to protecting your investment.  

The right choice of siding can make a world of difference in the look of your home. New siding is beautiful and clean, but a crisp appearance doesn’t necessarily last forever. Over time, home siding may begin to develop unsightly deformities, like buckling and bulging. The best way to prevent siding damage is by performing regular maintenance.  

Vinyl siding is one of the most common types, but it also happen to be the most susceptible to buckling. Vinyl materials contain properties that expand and contract under thermal changes. This means that during temperature fluctuations the siding must be able to breathe and move freely. Without room to expand and contract, siding will develop concave sections. Extreme weather conditions aren’t the exception. Re-painted panels and improper installation also have an impact.

What causes siding to buckle?  

Temperature changes: Exposure to cold and hot conditions can damage siding. Cold temperatures cause contraction and hot temperatures cause expansion. Once the siding expands or contracts and remains in that position for an extended period of time, buckling occurs.  

Improper installation: Quality, professional installation is paramount to straight and clean siding. Two errors can happen during installation—1) siding is nailed too tightly, and 2) siding panels are cut too long. When panels are nailed too tightly, there is little room allotted for contraction and expansion. If panels are cut too long, they will push against the trim. Both installation errors cause buckling.  

Painted panels:  Re-painting siding is an easy, inexpensive alternative to re-siding.

However, choosing the wrong paint color can do more harm than good.  Using a darker paint color than the original may create buckling in various sections. Since dark colors retain heat, thermal conditions have an effect.  If you want to repaint, choose colors wisely.  The paint should be identical to the original color or only slightly darker.  

Siding damage isn’t just an unsightly inconvenience that impacts a home’s appearance, it’s also potentially dangerous.  Siding protects your home, so it’s critical to identify damage and plan for repairs.  Have a professional siding contractor take a look to determine if the buckling is purely a cosmetic issue, or something more concerning.  

Contact PRS Roofing and Siding today to schedule a free onsite estimate.