As spring transitions into summer, it’s the perfect time to take a closer look at your home’s exterior, especially your siding. After a long winter and a rainy spring, your siding may be hiding signs of wear that could become costly if ignored. May is the ideal month to inspect, repair, or upgrade your siding before the intense heat, UV exposure, and summer storms arrive.
Whether you have wood, vinyl, fiber cement, or composite siding, here are five essential things to check to make sure your siding is summer-ready.
1. Look for Moisture Damage or Water Stains
Spring often brings heavy rains and fluctuating temperatures, both of which can reveal or worsen moisture problems. Your first task is to walk around your home and visually inspect all sides of the siding for signs of water-related damage.
What to look for:
- Darkened or discolored areas
- Mold or mildew growth
- Warping, bubbling, or swelling panels
- Peeling paint or finish near the base of the walls
Moisture can sneak behind your siding through small cracks or improperly sealed joints. Left unchecked, it can damage insulation, lead to interior leaks, or cause structural rot.
Quick Tip:
Pay close attention to areas near gutters, downspouts, or where landscaping touches the house, these are common entry points for excess moisture.
2. Check for Cracks, Gaps, or Loose Panels
Temperature swings from winter to spring often cause siding materials to expand and contract, which can loosen panels or create small gaps. These vulnerabilities allow water and pests to get behind the siding and can make your home less energy-efficient.
What to look for:
- Visible cracks or holes
- Gaps between siding boards
- Loose or misaligned siding pieces
- Missing caulking around windows and corners
May is the time to tighten things up. Check all trim joints, flashing, and expansion joints. If you spot deteriorated sealants, re-caulk or replace them using the right exterior-grade product for your siding type.
3. Inspect Sealants and Caulking
Sealants and caulking are your siding’s silent protectors; they help waterproof vulnerable seams and prevent energy loss. However, UV rays, temperature changes, and age can cause them to dry out, shrink, or peel.
What to look for:
- Cracked or crumbling caulk
- Separation between the caulk and the surface
- Gaps at siding-to-trim or siding-to-window joints
Focusing on these details gives the new caulk time to fully cure before summer humidity and rainstorms arrive. It also helps maintain a solid weather barrier to prevent interior damage during storm season.
4. Assess Fading or UV Damage
By the time summer hits, siding will be exposed to strong sunlight for extended periods. Even durable materials can suffer from UV degradation, especially if they weren’t properly maintained or were installed many years ago.
What to look for:
- Faded or dull siding color
- Chalky residue when touched
- Brittleness or surface cracking (especially on older vinyl)
Fading doesn’t just affect curb appeal; it can be a sign that the siding’s UV protectant layer is wearing thin, making it more vulnerable to long-term weather damage.
If needed:
Consider applying a fresh protective finish (where applicable) or upgrading to newer siding options that offer built-in UV resistance. Composite siding, for example, retains color much longer and requires less upkeep.
5. Evaluate Overall Energy Efficiency
If your siding is damaged, poorly sealed, or made of outdated materials, it can lead to higher cooling costs in the summer months. Even tiny gaps or moisture-compromised insulation behind the siding can force your HVAC system to work harder.
Ask yourself:
- Is your home staying cooler than last year?
- Have energy bills increased during warm months?
- Are there rooms that heat up unevenly?
Now is the time to make small repairs, reseal edges, or, if necessary, replace siding sections that compromise your home’s thermal envelope. You can also consider upgrading to siding with better insulation or reflective finishes.
Bonus Tip: Clean Your Siding for a Fresh Start
Once you’ve inspected and made necessary repairs, give your siding a good cleaning. Removing pollen, dust, mildew, and grime not only improves appearance but also extends the life of your siding and makes it easier to spot future problems.
Use a hose with light pressure or a soft-bristle brush and siding-safe cleaner. Avoid power washing if your siding is older or more delicate, as it may force water behind the panels.
Ready for a Siding Upgrade?
Take a weekend this May to walk around your home and give your siding the attention it deserves. A proactive inspection can prevent costly repairs, improve energy efficiency, and help your home look its best before the heat hits.
If your inspection reveals larger issues or if you’re simply ready to modernize your exterior, our natural composite siding is one of the most durable and low-maintenance options available. It resists moisture, UV rays, warping, and pests, making it a smart investment for summer and beyond.
Our natural composite siding is also available in a wide range of colors and profiles, many of which mimic the warmth of natural wood without the upkeep.
