Top 7 Unmistakable Signs Your Home Needs a Siding Update

Midwest homes take a beating from wind, snow, and dramatic temperature shifts. Over time, even high-quality siding can lose its ability to protect your home from the elements. Recognizing the early warning signs of siding failure can help you avoid costly repairs, energy loss, and structural damage.

If you’re wondering whether it’s time to contact trusted home siding contractors, start by checking for these telltale issues:

How Do You Know When Your House Needs New Siding?

1. Visible Cracks, Warping, or Gaps

2. Fading or Peeling Color

3. Rising Energy Bills

4. Moisture Inside the Home

5. Pest Damage or Insect Infestation

6. Mold, Mildew, or Algae Growth

7. Your Siding is Over 20 Years Old

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1. Visible Cracks, Warping, or Gaps

Siding should sit flush and firm against your home. If you're seeing warped panels, cracked boards, or noticeable gaps, your siding has likely lost its ability to keep water and air out.

These vulnerabilities can allow moisture to seep into your walls, and lead to mold growth, wood rot, & insulation problems. These problems are common in homes that have experienced years of freeze-thaw cycles — something Fort Wayne winters are known for.

2. Fading or Peeling Color

Siding is designed to maintain its appearance over time, but heavy UV exposure, snow glare, and aging can cause color to fade unevenly. While fading isn’t always a functional issue, it’s often a red flag that your siding’s protective coating has worn down, leaving it more vulnerable to damage and moisture.

If your home used to be vibrant, but now looks dull or chalky, it may be time to explore longer-lasting material options like fiber cement or engineered wood.

3. Rising Energy Bills

Have your heating or cooling costs climbed despite no major HVAC issues? Faulty or aging siding might be the culprit. When siding deteriorates or no longer insulates properly, outside air can infiltrate your home, which forces your furnace or AC to work harder.

When installed by professional home builders or exterior remodelers, siding updates can boost your home’s energy efficiency significantly, especially when paired with updated house wrap and insulation.

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4. Moisture Inside the Home

Staining, bubbling paint, or peeling wallpaper along interior walls can point to moisture intrusion from outside. Siding that’s cracked, gapped, or improperly installed allows rain and melting snow to enter places it shouldn't.

Left unaddressed, this moisture can cause mold, mildew, and structural damage. If your home shows interior signs of water issues, it’s smart to have your siding inspected before problems worsen.

5. Pest Damage or Insect Infestation

Rodents and insects are quick to exploit damaged siding. Soft, rotting wood or unsealed seams can give pests easy access into your walls and attic.

If you’ve noticed an uptick in pest problems (or if you see signs of chewing, nests, or droppings) your siding might be providing more of an invitation than a barrier. New, pest-resistant siding materials can help seal your home and protect against future infestations.

6. Mold, Mildew, or Algae Growth

Dark streaks, green patches, or fuzzy growth on your siding could indicate trapped moisture. While some buildup is normal over time, widespread or recurring mold or algae often signals deeper issues with drainage or ventilation.

Siding updates empower you to correct these issues at the source. This improves both your home’s health and appearance.

7. Your Siding is Over 20 Years Old

Even if your siding looks decent from a distance, age matters. Most siding materials have a lifespan of 20 to 30 years — less if they were lower-grade or installed improperly.

If your siding is nearing that age, a proactive replacement can help you avoid sudden repair costs, improve efficiency, and boost resale value. Modern siding products offer better insulation, color retention, and impact resistance, which makes them a smart investment for long-term homeowners.

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Upgrade Your Exterior with Our Home Siding Contractors

If your home is showing one or more of these signs, now is the time to explore your siding replacement options. At River’s Edge Construction & Remodeling, we work only with top-quality materials and proven installation methods to ensure your new siding protects your home through every season.

As experienced custom home builders and siding specialists, we help homeowners throughout Indiana improve energy efficiency, eliminate moisture problems, and refresh their curb appeal.

Don’t wait until minor problems turn into major damage. For personalized siding updates from proven local home builders, contact our team today.