dcsimg
Siding cost: include water intrusion prevention

Siding cost: include water intrusion prevention

Many homeowners believe that replacing their siding can remedy all issues caused by water intrusion through exterior walls. While it may be a solution in some cases, siding is normally just a first line of defense against water entering your home. If you want to completely shut moisture out, add a little to your siding budget for a complete inspection of the home's exterior protection package.

Increase your siding cost a little to save a lot

An experienced siding contractor or mason understands that moisture can get behind vinyl siding, brick veneer, and other types of sidings. The solution is to create pathways for it to get back out. When moisture is trapped behind that new vinyl siding, it can get inside your house. Whether you plan on hiring a contractor or doing the project yourself, make sure a little is added to the siding cost to cover inspecting these critical areas:

  1. Sheathing: Cracks, gaps or punctures in the sheathing may invite water into your home. They should be patched, taped, or if fairly large, replaced with new sheathing.
  2. Flashing: Windows and doors normally have metal or rubber flashing around their perimeter to prevent water entry around their frames. Inspect to ensure it's in good shape and if there's any question, replacing it now rather than when a leak develops may save repair costs.
  3. House wrap: Don't be surprised if there isn't any house wrap when the old siding comes off: it wasn't used on many older homes. If your house doesn't have it, it shouldn't cost too much to add it as additional protection. If it's there, it might be worthwhile to replace the wrap rather than spend the time repairing rips and tears.

Spending a little extra on these critical areas now may eliminate the need to remove your siding in the future to stop an expensive leak.

 

 

Featured Articles

advertisement.gif