The exterior materials of your home are often put in place to prevent pests, protect more fragile materials from weather, and for aesthetic purposes. Siding is one exterior add-on that can help extend the life of your home and prevent dealing with stinky or slimy pests. Bugs that invade your siding can be extremely difficult or even dangerous to deal with. Upgrading or maintaining your siding will prevent pests from taking over your home.
Early Signs Of Pest Infestations
Different kinds of pests can find their way into your home if you are not diligent about preventative measures. Looking for signs of infestations early on will help you minimize damage to the home. Knowing what to look for can help keep a minor issue from exploding into a major repair.
Some common signs of pest problems include:
- Droppings near or behind your siding
- Chew or gnaw marks
- Unusual noises around your home
- Visible nests, webs, or clusters of debris
- Warped panels
- Discoloration
- Mold or mildew growth
Prioritize Seamless Installation
Professional installation of siding is a crucial component to prevent pests. Fewer gaps reduce the likelihood of pests crawling into them or places to build nests. Easy entry points are great for wasps, ants, roaches, and beetles to live and build a nest. Having new siding installed or making repairs will ensure that each panel is securely in place and maintains a tight fit that is a deterrent to pests.
A Smooth Surface Is Not Ideal For Nests
When bugs or birds are looking for a place to build their nest, they will look for texture, which is necessary for anchoring the nest. A sleek texture does not have grip for the materials of a nest or web to attach to, which will force them to look elsewhere for their resting place. New siding will reduce hiding spots, angles, or crevices that are great for pests to reside. Smooth and nonporous materials are best for home siding if you want to prevent pests.
New Siding Is Less Prone To Warping
Modern siding materials are more durable than siding of the past, so replacing siding can help prevent cracks, warping, and breaks. When your siding is damaged or unattached from the home, you are inviting pests into your space. Vinyl siding is also a great option for homes that want to take precautions against pests, because it is resistant to weather damage and warping.
Some siding companies also offer protective coatings or mesh that will help keep pests from burrowing in your siding. These can help prevent the pests from finding vulnerable spots in older siding. Durable materials and installation will minimize the risks of pests.
Are Some Materials Better For Repelling Pests Than Others?
Wood siding has been known to be a breeding ground for pests. Older homes often had wood siding because it was affordable and easy to paint. However, in the modern world, there are a variety of materials that are more durable against pests. Let’s look at some popular siding materials that can better protect your home from bugs and birds.
Another affordable option is vinyl siding, which is also durable against pests and rodents. Vinyl is a low-maintenance option, especially if it is installed by a professional to ensure there is no gapping. It provides a relatively secure barrier between the more vulnerable materials of your home and pests.
Aluminum siding does not provide a food source for termites or other insects like wood does, so it can help deter these pests from living on your home. Aluminum can still have small gaps when it is applied to a home, so other pests like wasps or birds could still cause damage. Maintenance will be required to keep aluminum siding in good condition.
Fiber Cement is a newer offering for homeowners that is made of a mix of wood, cement, and sand. This siding is resistant to pests because this material does not rot. When applied properly and caulked, the fiber cement also doesn’t have small openings for bugs to crawl into.
Prevent Pests With New Siding From Our Team
Unlimited Siding and Raingutter Inc. is an exterior contractor that specializes in home exterior remodels, including new siding. Working with Unlimited Siding will help prevent pests by installing durable siding options and helping you have peace of mind that all gaps are sealed. When you are looking to protect your home from the elements and pests, trust our team. We work with the homeowner to help them enhance the appearance of the home while also making it last through the years. With years of experience, Unlimited Siding can help boost your curb appeal and prevent pests from taking over your home. Learn more about our services or reach out to schedule your project today!
