Damaged Siding: Cosmetic Wear vs. Signs That Need Inspection

Usually cosmetic

• Even fading from sun.
• Small dents or scuffs on metal or vinyl.
• A few small chips in fiber cement paint.
• Mildew on shaded walls that cleans off.

Worth a closer look

• Warped, buckled or bulging panels.
• Soft or crumbling spots when pressed (wood or fiber cement edges).
• Gaps between panels or at corners and trim.
• Cracks or holes that let water in.
• Peeling paint or stains on interior walls behind the siding.
• Swelling or rot at the bottom course near the ground or a roof line.

What you can safely check

• Walk around the house from the ground and photograph damaged areas.
• Check whether problems line up with gutters, roof edges, windows or sprinklers.
• Look inside for stains on walls and around windows on the same wall.

Next steps

For isolated damage, see siding repair vs. replacement. If you suspect water behind the siding, have a siding contractor check the sheathing before patching. Storm damage may be covered by insurance; contact your insurer first.