Siding in Winter: How Cold Affects Vinyl/Cedar Impressions, Starter Strip Issues, and Repair vs. Replacement Calls

Winter repairs should be handled with caution. It should be done by professionals who are trusted and local. Knowing the area means they are used to the weather and understand how to work best in it. Forcing a repair or installation in cold weather can lead to premature failure, making a repair or replacement a more cost-effective long-term solution. Contact StormCare Roofing to schedule an inspection and coordinate the best time to repair or replace your siding. 

How Cold Affects Vinyl/Cedar Impressions

Cold weather makes vinyl siding brittle and more susceptible to cracking when installing. Cold weather also causes the siding to contract, making proper spacing crucial for movement and preventing future buckling. Cedar-style shakes have similar risks, as they can also be damaged by extreme temperatures and ice. Issues like poor installation leading to buckling, visible cracking, or loose starter strips are strong indicators that replacement may be needed instead of simple repair.

Starter Strip Issues

A starter strip that is improperly installed, poorly attached, cracked, or coming loose can lead to wider problems down the line. There may also be underlying issues. If the starter strip isn't flush with the house or is damaged, it can allow water to get behind the siding, leading to rot or mold. The stress from cold-weather contraction can make a weak or poorly installed starter strip more likely to fail.

Repair vs. Replacement Calls

Consider repair for minor issues like small cracks, dents, or loose panels. These issues may be repairable, especially if they are limited to a small area. A replacement is for major damage to your siding, such as if it’s cracked, warped, or buckling across a large area. More signs that you need a replacement are that there is evidence of water damage, mold, or rot behind the siding, the siding is peeling or fading significantly, or if you are experiencing high energy costs. This could suggest a breach in the home's protective barrier.

Contact StormCare Roofing 

Contact StormCare Roofing as soon as you notice any damage to your siding. Our professionals are trained experts and know how to install siding in Massachusetts weather. We are trusted and local, and our skilled inspectors know exactly what to look for. We will work with you, coming up with the best plan that accommodates the weather and your budget.