Nothing lasts forever, and that includes your house’s siding. Over time, the material deteriorates from weather exposure, leaving you with problems. So how can you tell when it’s time to replace? Here are eight signs you need new siding.

1. Fading

Sunlight tends to bleach pigment, so you’ll see paint fade over time. However, this shouldn’t happen too quickly. When you notice fading, take note of how long it’s been since you repainted. If it’s only been a few years, you may need to think about replacement.

2. Bubbling

Bubbling is often a sign of moisture, which means you may have a serious problem underneath. There may be a leak, so make sure to get your roof inspected as part of the replacement process.

3. Mold, Mildew or Fungus

Mold, mildew, and fungus are also huge warning signs that something isn’t right inside your walls, as these three flourish in dampness. You should seek professional services to have any mold removed and replace all damaged areas.

4. Crooked or Loose Areas

Sometimes crooked or loose areas can be easily fixed. However, if this becomes a frequent issue, you may have a bigger problem on your hands. It may be more cost-effective to replace than to repeatedly fix structurally unsound paneling.

5. Higher Energy Bills

Siding isn’t just for aesthetics; it also helps insulate your home. If you’re seeing higher energy bills, but don’t have a problem with your HVAC system, air may be escaping through holes in your walls. In this case, you can keep more money in your pocket with a full replacement.

6. Warping

Warping is a sign of damage to your house’s exterior material. You should have the area inspected to find the source before you replace anything, or you may end up with the same issue again.

7. Frequent Repainting

Chipping, cracking, and peeling paint are expected over time and exposure to the elements. Usually, a fresh coat of paint is all you need. However, like fading, frequent paint issues may be a sign that your house’s exterior needs a revamp.

8. Dry Rot

Is your outside paneling crumbling, but there’s no sign of moisture? It may be the victim of dry rot. Unfortunately, this fungus undermines materials’ structural integrity, so you’ll need to replace the affected paneling.

By carefully noting your house’s exterior condition, you can replace paneling before issues get serious. Make sure to hire a professional to address any underlying problems.