Let us talk about siding inspections. It is not the most glamorous topic. We know this. It is one of the most important things you can do to protect your home here in Great Bend. We see it all. This includes the intense summer sun as well as those icy winter winds. We also get hail as well as dust storms from the surrounding agricultural areas. All of that weather takes a toll on your home's exterior. A good siding inspection can save you a lot of headaches as well as cash down the road.
How often should I get my siding inspected?
You should really be doing a visual check of your siding at least once a year. Just walk around your house and give it a good look. After any major storm, and we get plenty of those in Kansas, you will want to do a spot check for damage. Things like hail, high winds, as well as even just a bad thunderstorm can cause damage. You might not notice this damage right away. Beyond your own checks, we recommend a professional siding inspection every 5 to 10 years. This is because pros like Absolute Siding Solutions can spot things you might miss. This is especially true for hidden moisture issues.
What exactly are you looking for during a siding inspection?
When our team does a siding inspection, we are not just glancing at your house. We are doing a complete evaluation of the entire siding system. We are looking for both visible as well as hidden issues. These issues could impact your siding's performance as well as its lifespan.
- Cracks, holes, and loose panels: These are obvious entry points for water as well as pests. Hail can cause cracks as well as holes. Strong winds can loosen panels.
- Warping or buckling: This often signals moisture infiltration as well as improper installation.
- Rot or soft spots: If your siding feels soft or spongy when you press on it, that is a big red flag for rot underneath.
- Mold, mildew, or algae: Green or dark patches usually mean moisture is getting trapped. This can degrade your siding over time. Here in Great Bend, we often see green algae on north-facing walls. The sun does not hit these walls as much.
- Fading, peeling, or discoloration: UV exposure can break down finishes. Peeling paint can indicate moisture issues.
- Failing caulk and flashing: These are important for sealing out water around windows, doors, as well as other penetrations. If they are cracked or missing, water can get behind the siding.
- Pest problems: Damaged siding can be an open invitation for critters.
- Interior signs: Sometimes the first sign of siding trouble is inside your home. Look for water stains on interior walls, peeling paint, or even musty odors.
Absolute Siding Solutions is also checking the installation quality, drainage, as well as ground clearance. It is all about finding the root cause. We do not just look at the symptoms.
Can I do a siding inspection myself?
You absolutely can do a siding inspection yourself. You should do this. A basic visual siding inspection is something every homeowner can do. Walk around your house. Look closely at the panels, trim, as well as seams. Binoculars can help you see higher spots. Pay extra attention to areas around windows, doors, as well as rooflines. These are common leak spots. If you notice any soft spots, gaps, or water stains, make a note of it.
However, there is a big difference between a DIY check and a professional siding inspection. We have specialized tools. These tools include moisture meters. They can detect hidden water damage you would never see. We also know the subtle signs of damage. An untrained eye might miss these signs. A DIY siding inspection can save you money upfront. You might overlook serious issues that lead to costly repairs later.
When should I call a professional for a siding inspection?
If you see any of the serious signs we just talked about, it is time to call in a professional for a siding inspection. These signs include widespread cracking, warping, rot, significant mold, or interior water stains. Also, if you have had a major storm with hail or high winds, even if you do not see obvious damage, a professional can give you peace of mind. We can assess whether repairs are enough. We can also tell you if you are looking at a siding replacement.
At Absolute Siding Solutions, we offer siding inspections as one of our services. We will give you an honest assessment. We will not just try to sell you something you do not need. We have been working on homes in Great Bend. This includes homes from the historic areas near Brit Spaugh Park to the newer developments on the west side. We know what to look for in our local climate.
What's the difference between a siding inspection and a general home inspection?
A general home inspection, like what you would get when buying or selling a house, covers a lot of ground. This includes the roof, foundation, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, as well as the exterior walls and siding. They will look for visible cracks, deterioration, or sealing issues on your siding. This is a broad overview.
A dedicated siding inspection, especially one from a siding contractor like Absolute Siding Solutions, is a deep dive. It focuses specifically on your home's exterior cladding system. We are focusing solely on the siding, flashing, drainage, as well as how it all protects your home from moisture and the elements. We are looking for the root cause of problems. We do not just look at the surface-level symptoms. Think of it like a general practitioner versus a specialist. Both are important. For specific siding concerns, you want the specialist.
How much does a siding inspection cost in Great Bend?
The cost of a siding inspection can vary. Some companies, including Absolute Siding Solutions, offer free estimates or consultations. We will do a visual assessment and discuss your needs. For a more complete, in-depth siding inspection that might involve specialized tools like moisture meters as well as a detailed report, you could expect to pay a fee. General home inspections in Kansas typically range from $325 to $525. This depends on the size as well as age of the home. A specific siding inspection might be part of that. It could also be a separate service. It is always best to ask upfront what is included. You should also ask if there is a charge.
What happens if damage is found during the inspection?
If we find damage during a siding inspection, do not panic. It is pretty common. This is especially true in older homes. The siding inspection report will detail the issues. This often includes photos. It will categorize them as urgent, safety-related, or recommended for future monitoring. We will explain what is going on. We will also explain why it is happening. We will tell you what your options are. Sometimes, it is a simple repair. This could be replacing a few cracked panels or re-caulking. Other times, if the damage is widespread or there is significant moisture intrusion, a full siding replacement might be the smarter, more cost-effective long-term solution.
Our goal is always to give you the honest truth. We want to help you make the best decision for your home as well as your budget. We want your Great Bend home to be protected as well as look its best for years to come.