There is a long tradition in the United States of using wood as a siding material for protecting and decorating our home exteriors. Today it is still popular because of its durability and natural beauty.
With the right treatment wood siding will last at least 30 years or more. It tends to need more care than most other types of siding, but - fortunately - you won't need to employ a professional to do the job. Do-it-yourself siding maintenance is relatively easy to learn, although it is a time-consuming business.
Follow these do-it-yourself tips if you are thinking of maintaining your siding yourself.
Do-it-yourself Wood Siding Maintenance:
Inspect your house at least twice a year for damage to wood or paintwork and for missing shingles or shakes and try to repair problems as soon as you find them.
Try to identify what has caused the problems you have found and fix them as soon as possible; e.g. mend the leaky gutter that caused water damage.
Board siding that is badly damaged should be replaced.
Shingles and Shakes might need to be repaired rather than replaced if you can't find the perfect match.
Damaged paint in small areas can be touched up; larger areas might mean a whole wall needs to be redone.
Repaint or stain wood siding at least every four years. This will help to protect the wood and keep it looking good.
If you follow this list of do it yourself tips for siding maintenance you will find that you can keep your wood siding in good repair and looking beautiful for years to come.
