Siding is really a home’s protective barrier more than it is a design element. While it is often utilized as both, any damage to the siding can compromise this protection. These are a few ways in which siding protects a home.
One of the ways siding protects a home is that it provides a physical barrier. This physical barrier stops water, the wind, and impacts from damaging the interior structures. Without the siding, the only protection offered is from the insulation and drywall. If this protective barrier is damaged from a significant impact or is worn, the rest of the home becomes susceptible to the outside influences that would normally damage a home. The siding repairs are needed if this physical barrier is compromised in any way.
Siding also protects the home by reducing the amount of energy lost. While the insulation slows down energy loss significantly, the siding is one more barrier that can help stop energy loss. It is usually the last barrier the energy has to travel through in order to escape to the outside. In addition, the siding prevents the heat or cold air from direct access into the home. This helps to prevent the air conditioning and heating units from working overtime to regulate inside temperature.
The home’s siding also protects against animal invaders. Many wild animals are always on the lookout for a new place to live. However, most of them are stopped by the solid barrier that siding provides. If this barrier is compromised because of damage, the wild animals can get in and wreak major havoc. Chewing through power lines, building nests, and destroying insulation are common with these invaders. If the pests are allowed access, siding repairs are needed to help prevent future invasions. Since siding is an insurmountable barrier to the home, the animals often cannot find access points.
Siding has the ability to stop water, reduce the loss of energy, and to stop animals from getting into the home. If the siding structure is compromised, it cannot function in its protective capacity.
