Essential Fall Siding Maintenance Tips for Homeowners
It’s that time of year again when the temperatures cool and the leaves fall. While it’s great for baking pies and getting ready for the holidays, it’s also the perfect time to check your home’s siding before the colder months arrive. We’ve compiled a list of essential fall siding maintenance tips so you know what to do this season.
Inspect for Damage
The first thing you should do is check your siding for any damage before the cold weather hits. Look for cracks, loose panels, discoloration, or warping. If you see any of these, get them fixed right away. Ignoring them can allow moisture in, leading to mold or other damage.
Start with High-Risk Areas (Seams, Trim, and Transitions)
Walk the perimeter and pay close attention to vertical seams, butt joints, and where siding meets trim, windows, doors, decks, and roofing. These intersections are the most common entry points for wind-driven rain and ice.
Watch for Moisture Red Flags
Stains under window sills, peeling paint on soffits, soft sheathing, or a musty smell in adjacent rooms can indicate trapped moisture. If you suspect mold, follow safe cleanup and prevention practices from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and address the source of water intrusion before winter.
Evaluate Sealant, Flashing, and Penetrations
Check caulk lines around windows/doors, utility penetrations, hose bibs, and light fixtures. Look for gaps, cracking, or separation. Re-seal with an exterior-grade, paintable sealant and confirm kick-out/integrated flashing is intact. Proper air and moisture control improves durability and efficiency—see the U.S. Department of Energy’s air-sealing guidance.
Scan for Storm or Wind Damage
After heavy wind events, look for lifted laps, loose fasteners, and chipped edges—especially on gable ends and near rooflines. If you spot movement or rattling panels, schedule a professional inspection.
Essential Fall Siding Maintenance Tips for Homeowners
Keep Your Siding Clean
Over the summer, dirt can build up on your siding, turning into mold or mildew if left untreated. These can damage your siding and make it look not good. To avoid this, clean your siding with a mild detergent that is safe for the material. You could also hire a professional to pressure wash it for you.
Avoid Painting the Siding
If your siding looks dull or damaged, don’t paint over it. Paint can crack when the temperature drops, making things worse. If there’s damage, replacing the siding rather than painting over it is better.
Replace Your Siding
If your siding is badly damaged, fall is the best replacement time. Doing this before winter will help keep your home warm and pest-free. We offer various siding options in different colors and styles that are built to handle cold weather.
Check for Insects and Rodents
As the weather cools, insects and rodents may try to get inside your home. Check for cracks or small holes in your siding where pests might sneak in. If you see signs of pests or nests, handle them immediately to prevent an infestation.
Seal Gaps Around Windows and Doors
As temperatures drop, tiny gaps around windows and doors can let cold air and moisture seep in, damaging your siding and increasing heating costs. Check for cracks or gaps around these areas and apply weather-resistant caulking to seal them. This will help protect your siding and keep your home insulated during the colder months.
Essential Fall Siding Maintenance Tips for Homeowners
Need a Hand? We’re Here!
Don’t allow fall siding issues to undermine your house’s structural integrity. We at Kesting Construction are the go-to professionals for siding installation and upkeep. James Hardie fiber cement siding, vinyl siding, and wood siding alternatives are just a few of the siding solutions in which our team excels. With more than 30 years of experience, we guarantee your house will remain safe and attractive in all seasons. Our talented artisans provide outstanding results with meticulous attention to detail and top-notch craftsmanship, whether you require minor repairs or a complete siding replacement. For a free consultation and to learn why Kesting Construction is the go-to company in Pennsylvania for high-quality siding services, contact us now. Allow us to assist you in confidently preparing your house for the following seasons.
