Before you install wood siding on your Nebraska home, you might want to think about all of the potential pros and cons, including the siding material’s estimated lifespan. Wooden siding offers a classic, rustic appeal. Still, the wood can be challenging to maintain and may not last as long as other options.
As a highly experienced siding installer, Nelson Contracting serves Lincoln and Omaha, NE. Below, the team discusses what you need to know about the average lifespan of wooden siding. If you’re replacing siding, the family-owned team provides free estimates.
The Average Lifespan of Your Property’s Wood Siding
The lifespan of wood siding can range anywhere from under 20 years to over 100 years, and many factors impact longevity.
Firstly, the type of timber you install greatly affects how long you can expect your system to last. Here are the average lifespans of different types of exterior wood siding:
- Pine siding: 20 to 25 years.
- Fir siding: 30 to 40 years.
- Redwood and cedar siding: 75 or more years.
- Cypress siding: 100 or more years.
The Problems With Wood Siding
Wood lasts quite a long time, in that sense, but don’t let that fool you – numerous problems can cause your wooden siding installation to fail long before you hope it might. For example, depending on your environment and wood siding maintenance, your system can face the following issues:
- Rot: Wood siding is highly susceptible to water absorption. When moisture soaks into the wood over time, the boards will rot and decay.
- Mold growth: Water absorption leads to mold growth, which creates health risks and other concerns for your family.
- Pest infestations: Wood attracts numerous pests, including termites. When termites burrow into the wood, they cause severe, often irreversible, damage.
- Chips, cracks, or holes: Softer woods cannot withstand severe hail or wind debris. Over time, the boards may crack or break, requiring wood siding repair.
Factors Affecting How Long Your Wood Siding Lasts
The type of timber itself brings various risks, but what else comes into play when deciding whether wood siding is worth it for you? When estimating the longevity of your elevated wood cladding or siding, consider the following:
- The wood treatment: To prevent issues like rot or mold, you can treat wood siding with various stains or finishes to seal it. If you maintain the sealant, the wood might just reach its estimated lifespan.
- The location: The location of your siding can impact concerns like rot risks. If your home is in a shadier area, your siding may be more prone to mold.
- The caulking: Wood siding requires proper caulking at the siding seams and near all doors and windows to prevent water absorption. You’ll need to reapply the caulking on a regular basis.
- The maintenance: Wood siding requires frequent upkeep. You may need to replace boards, check for mold, re-caulk, and more.
- Your environment: The humid, snowy environment in Nebraska can do a number on wood siding. You should not expect your wood siding to reach the maximum advertised lifespan in this demanding environment.
Alternatives to Wood Siding
If you want to avoid the upkeep, risks, and costs associated with a wooden siding installation, consider synthetic siding or board and batten vinyl alternatives. Such options from Cedur and Brava Roof Tile can mimic the appearance of wood while providing superior durability with minimal maintenance.
Are You Ready To Replace Your Siding?
Now that you know all about wood siding, you can choose the best option for your home. Whether you need a repair or want to upgrade to synthetic alternatives, you can call Nelson Contracting in Lincoln and Omaha, Nebraska, today at (402) 464-2418 to schedule your free estimate!
