6 Common Reasons Why Siding Comes Off

Giovanni Valle is a licensed architect and LEED-accredited professional and is certified by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB). He is the author and managing editor of various digital publications, including BuilderSpace, Your Own Architect, and Interiors Place.

Siding is an essential component of a home. It makes up a large part of your home’s aesthetics and protects your property from weather, sunlight, insects, and other sources of damage. However, siding is prone to issues, and it’s not always clear why these problems occur.

Here are 6 common reasons why siding comes off:

The siding was poorly installed.
It has seen too many storms.
It gets too much sun.
The siding is old.
Pests have infested the siding.
Water is trapped beneath the siding.

Keep reading for an in-depth view into what is most likely the root of your siding falling apart. I will also explore what kind of fixes each issue requires and what you can do to protect your property against these threats.

1. The Siding Was Poorly Installed

Correct installation is integral when it comes to your siding. If you did not install the siding strips correctly and securely, they will likely loosen and fall off your home over time. So, usually, it’s best to rely on a professional for installation.

One example of poor installation is when the siding pieces are placed too close to the shingles or touch the ground. When the siding is so close to dirt, pests, and water runoff, they become more vulnerable and may get ripped off of your home by mother nature.

At the same time, poor installation may allow wind to pass through small gaps between pieces. When this happens, you might hear a rattling or roaring sound in your home that can be pretty spooky and irritating.

To ensure that your siding is installed correctly, hire an expert for the job. Going to the pros ensures that the job is done correctly, which maximizes the lifespan.

2. It Has Seen Too Many Storms

Like roofing and shingles, siding is not impervious to wind and rain.

High winds can cause the siding to shake and come loose. Storms may also send branches and debris crashing against it. In high winds, siding may crack or snap, and over time, this may cause pieces to fall off.

Siding is also vulnerable to excessive amounts of rain. If too much water passes through the panels, it may cause them harm, especially if it is wooden.

Storm damages are common in siding and may require extensive repairs depending on the scale of the damages. Severe storm damage may result in the need for a complete replacement.

If a storm has struck your home, it’s probably worthwhile inspecting your siding afterward. A quick assessment allows you to spot any damages early so you can repair them before they worsen. Maintaining your siding and ensuring that it is in good condition before a storm hits may also prevent cracks from occurring in the first place.

3. It Gets Too Much Sun

Another common source of issues for siding is exposure to direct sunlight. People often forget about the harm that the sun can cause to structures and materials. The harmful UV rays that the sun emits can cause materials, such as siding, to break down and come apart.

Intense sunlight will also dry out siding and cause paint to crack and chip. When this happens, it becomes vulnerable to a host of issues that may cause them to decline quickly.

You can protect your siding against sun damage by painting them with UV protection paint. Doing so will minimize the damage caused by direct sunlight and help it remain in good condition.

If you don’t live in a hot climate, the sun is far less likely to cause damage. However, as you get closer to the equator, the more likely it is that the sun will wear out your home’s siding.

4. The Siding Is Old

Like other aspects of your home, siding is prone to normal wear and tear. When your home’s siding has been installed correctly by skilled workers, it should last for a long time. However, it will not last forever.

After a decade or two, it may start to come loose, potentially causing them to fall right off. Also, depending on what material the siding is made of, it may begin to crack and decay faster. Again, this will cause it to come off from the wall.

If your siding falls apart due to natural wear and tear, you will likely need to replace them entirely. Doing so ensures that it is restored to a proper condition which keeps your home sheltered from the elements.

5. Pests Have Infested the Siding

Another common cause of siding coming off your home is infestations getting a hold on your property. Bugs and insects can crawl underneath your siding and make themselves a home within your home.

Once they get there, these infestations will harm structures and spread throughout your siding.

Pests like termites will eat and burrow their way through your siding, causing them to weaken and eventually fall apart. These bugs will not only undermine it structurally but will also spoil its aesthetic appearance.

If your siding has been infected with harmful insects, you may need an exterminator to remove them. Extermination is an expensive process and is not guaranteed to remove all insects.

If an infestation has caused severe harm to the siding on your home, you will probably need to replace it before the infestation spreads. If you wait too long and further damages occur, your home will require more extensive (and expensive) repairs.

6. Water Is Trapped Beneath the Siding

Siding is particularly vulnerable to damage caused by excessive moisture. If there is insufficient space between the siding and shingles on your roof, it may lead to a build-up of condensation.

Excess moisture can cause wooden structures to rot and fall off. On top of this, water facilitates the growth of mold and mildew beneath your siding. Mold and mildew spread quickly, causing devastating damages to your property and possession. Mold and mildew may even be harmful to residents in your home.

High-quality installation and well-maintained siding will prevent moisture build-up, keeping your siding in tip-top shape.

Keeping your siding clean and free from any dirt or grime will also keep the moisture away. Siding can be easily damaged by excess dirt, so washing it with a garden hose from time to time will help keep them in good condition.