Winter in central Ohio is beautiful, but the snow and ice that come with it can cause significant damage to your home's siding if you're not prepared. At Evolved Exteriors, we understand the challenges homeowners face during the harsh winter months and are here to explain how snow and ice can impact your siding and what you can do to protect your home.
Common Ways Snow and Ice Damage Your Siding
Winter weather can take a toll on your home's exterior—here are some common ways snow and ice can damage your siding.
- Cracking from Freezing Temperatures: Freezing temperatures can cause vinyl siding to become brittle. As snow and ice accumulate, the added pressure can lead to cracks or splits, leaving your home vulnerable to moisture intrusion and further damage.
- Moisture Penetration: Melting snow and ice can seep behind loose or damaged siding, creating a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Prolonged moisture exposure can also cause wood-based siding to rot or warp.
- Ice Buildup and Pressure: Ice can form on siding when water runs off the roof or gutters and refreezes on contact. This buildup adds significant pressure, which may result in dents, cracks, or warping, especially on metal or vinyl siding.
- Staining from Dirty Snow and Ice: Snow and ice often carry dirt and debris that can stain your siding. Over time, these stains may become difficult to remove, dulling your home’s appearance and requiring professional cleaning or even replacement.
- Wind-Driven Snow and Ice: Winter storms often bring strong winds that can drive snow and ice into siding seams or gaps. Over time, this repeated exposure can loosen panels, allowing water to penetrate and cause damage underneath.
Preventing Siding Damage During Winter
Protecting your siding from winter damage starts with a few simple preventative measures.
- Inspect Your Siding Before Winter: Look for cracks, gaps, or loose panels before the snow falls. Fixing these issues early can prevent snow and ice from making them worse.
- Maintain Your Gutters: Clean gutters allow water to flow away from your home, preventing ice buildup near your siding. Damaged or clogged gutters can direct water onto your siding, increasing the risk of ice formation and moisture damage.
- Remove Snow Carefully: Use soft tools like a broom to gently remove snow near your siding. Avoid sharp tools that could scratch or crack the surface.
- Trim Nearby Trees: Overhanging branches can dump heavy snow or ice onto your siding, causing damage. Keep trees trimmed to reduce this risk.
- Seal Vulnerable Areas: Ensure that all siding seams, windows, and doors are properly sealed to block out moisture and freezing air. This also helps improve your home’s energy efficiency.
Signs Your Siding Needs Attention
If you notice any of the following, it’s time to call a professional for siding repair or replacement:
- Cracks, warping, or visible damage
- Discoloration or stains from dirt and debris
- Loose or missing panels
- Mold, mildew, or rotting wood
- Increased drafts inside your home
Why Choose Evolved Exteriors?
At Evolved Exteriors, we specialize in siding solutions that protect your home from Ohio’s toughest winters. From proactive inspections to expert repairs and replacements, we’re committed to keeping your home safe and beautiful year-round.
Don’t let winter weather compromise your siding—contact us today for a free estimate and keep your home protected this season.
