Cladding or siding is one of the most popular choices when covering houses and for good reason. The right cladding does more than just add curb appeal to your home. It will also help to protect your walls and insulate your property. In turn this can help to reduce your energy bills; saving you money.

In fact, the cost of cladding can usually be recouped within the space of a few years through energy savings.

You can choose from a huge range of cladding for houses; there is certain to be something for your needs and budget.

One of the great things about cladding is the fact that it will last for many years with virtually no maintenance. Of course this will depend on the type of cladding you choose; vinyl cladding needs an annual wash while wooden cladding may need painting or treating every five years.

But, no matter how well you look after your cladding there will come a time when it is too old and needs to be replaced; here’s the signs that you need to watch for:

Warping

Whether you have wood, vinyl or another material it is likely that it will warp over time. The effects of the sun, wind and the rain will take its toll on any material. If you start to notice that your cladding or siding is bulging or warping in any way you need to investigate further.

There is either a localized specific issue or it’s time to replace the cladding.

Rotting

This only really applies to wood cladding but is definitely an indicator that it’s time to change your cladding. Wood will rot over time; treatments will help to delay this but it is inevitable.

Once you start noticing rot you may be surprised by how quickly it can spread. It’s an indication that you need to start replacing your cladding.

Fading

Most modern vinyl cladding options are resistant to the UV rays of the sun. But, they will still fade eventually. Wood and other materials will also be bleached by the sun.

Once it starts to fade you will need to monitor it; when the fading becomes severe it’s a good indication that your cladding needs replacing.

It will make your home look better as well.

Holes or Cracks

If your cladding is starting to look worn then it probably is. This can often be displayed through holes and cracks appearing in the cladding. This will prevent it from doing its job properly and tells you that you need to replace it.

Insulation

Unfortunately the price of energy generally goes up. However, if you’ve noticed your bill going up and your hoe feeling colder then there is a good chance the cladding is not giving you the insulation protection that it used to.

This means it is starting to fail and you need to replace it; before it becomes a bigger issue.

If you notice anything else amiss with your cladding it is advisable to look at it in more detail. Early treatment can help to extend the life of your cladding until you’re ready to replace it.