Many homeowners have experienced a disturbing noise from their siding during high winds. There is usually no need for an alarm, but you might want to fix the issue before things head south.
There are several reasons why your siding makes noise in the wind. The most common reason is that the siding is not properly secured to the house. When the wind blows hard, it vibrates the siding, resulting in a weird noise. This is not always a serious problem, but it can be annoying.
This article will discuss the different reasons why your siding may make noise in the wind and how to fix the problem. I will also provide some tips on preventing the problem in the first place.
Why Your Siding Makes Noise in the Wind
I’ve seen it so many times – you fork out cash for new siding, have it installed, and a few weeks later, it makes noise in the wind. Did you just get ripped off? Here are some of the reasons why you might be encountering this issue:
Improper Installation
A loose installation is the number one reason your new siding makes noise. In fact, it’s such a common problem that there’s even a name for it – wind flap.
A wind flap happens when the installer doesn’t properly secure the siding to your home. The result is gaps and spaces that allow wind to get under the siding and make it vibrate.
This is usually not a big deal and can be fixed by tightening the screws or nails that hold the siding. However, if the problem is not addressed, it can lead to more serious issues like water damage.
One of my neighbors had this exact problem. He didn’t take care of it right away, and, as a result, his siding started to rot. It was a mess and cost him a lot of money to fix.
Warping
Warping is another reason why your new siding makes noise. This can happen if the siding is made of cheaper materials or is not properly stored before installation.
An example of poor-quality siding material would be getting vinyl siding that’s too thin. It’s more likely to warp in the heat, which can lead to vibration when the wind blows.
You can also run into this problem if the siding is not stored properly before installation. Exposure to the elements (snow, rain, sun) can warp and cause problems later.
To avoid this, ask your contractor about the storage conditions of the siding before they install it. Make sure it’s kept in a cool, dry place, so it doesn’t warp.
Improperly Cut Siding
If your siding is making noise and wasn’t installed recently, it could be that your joints are not flush. This is a common mistake that even the most experienced contractor can make.
The problem with improperly cut siding is that it doesn’t fit snugly against your home. This creates gaps and spaces that allow wind to get under the siding, causing vibration.
You can usually tell if this is the problem if you see gaps around the edges of the siding or if it looks like it was cut too big or too small.
Using Incompatible Materials Together
Sometimes, you may decide to combine two cladding materials to create a unique design. For example, you may combine vinyl siding with wood or steel siding.
The problem is that these materials expand and contract at different rates. So, when the temperature changes, they can make noise as they rub against each other.
Siding Damage
In some cases, the noise may be as a result of the wind getting into holes in your siding. This can happen if a falling tree branch hits the siding or if it’s damaged during the installation process.
If you notice any cracks, holes, or other damage to your siding, it’s best to get it fixed as soon as possible. Not only will this stop the noise, but it will also prevent water damage and other problems.
Solutions to Your Siding Making Noise in the Wind
Now that we’ve covered some reasons why your siding may be making noise, let’s look at some solutions.
Tighten the Fasteners
Tightening your siding’s fasteners is usually the first thing you should try. In most cases, this will solve the problem and stop the noise.
You’ll need a power drill and some screws or nails to do this. Start by removing loose screws or nails and then using new ones to fasten the siding to the house. However, if your siding is made of vinyl, you may need to use special fasteners that are designed for this material.
Add Weather Stripping
Another solution is to add weatherstripping around the perimeter of your siding. This will create a seal that will prevent wind from getting under the siding and causing vibration.
You can buy weatherstripping at your local hardware store. Just make sure to get the right type for your siding material.
Replace Damaged Siding
You’ll need to replace the damaged sections of your siding. This is usually a straightforward process, but it’s best to leave it to a professional if you’re not confident in your handyman skills.
If you decide to take it on, remember to bring a solid ladder and wear gloves to protect your hands.
Only Work With Reputable Professionals
If you’re looking for a complete siding replacement, you must only work with reputable professionals. A good contractor can help you choose the right type of siding for your home and climate.
They should also be able to install it without any problems. Ask for recommendations from friends or family or look for reviews online to find a good contractor.
Tips for Preventing Siding Vibration
Usually, the best way to deal with this vibration problem is to prevent it from happening in the first place. And choosing a high-quality material that is a good fit for your climate is the first step.
I’ve seen many people opt to install vinyl siding because it’s cheap and easy to find. However, it’s not the best option if you live in an area with extreme heat or cold weather.
The same goes for wood siding. If you choose this material, make sure it’s a rot-resistant variety like cedar. Moreover, don’t forget to treat it regularly with a suitable sealant.
You might also want to stay on top of repairs. I’m talking about those dents left behind after a hail storm or the cracks that form over time. It’s best to repair them as soon as possible, so they don’t become any more serious. Not only will this keep your siding looking good, but it will also prevent noise problems down the road.
The issue with these damages is that you might have to deal with more than just siding repair. Any water that gets in through the cracks can lead to wood rot or mold. And that’s another problem you must deal with before repairing the siding.
How To Find a Contractor To Solve the Siding Vibration Issue
There are a few ways you can find a reputable contractor to help with your siding issue.
- The first step is to ask your friends and family if they know anyone. If they’ve had work done recently, they might be able to give you a good recommendation. I’ve had a good experience with this method in the past. Once I found a contractor I liked, I was able to use them for all sorts of different projects.
- If that doesn’t work, you can always look online. There are plenty of websites where you can read reviews of contractors in your area. Just read through them carefully and pay attention to any red flags. Common red flags include unfinished work, missed deadlines, or unprofessional behavior. If you see any of these things, it’s best to steer clear and find someone else.
- You can also check out the Better Business Bureau website. They have a directory of contractors that you can search through. And they also provide ratings and reviews that can be helpful in your decision-making process. After all this initial research, you should have a list of potential contractors you can contact. I suggest getting in touch with a few and asking for quotes.
This will give you a good idea of what they’re charging and how they operate. Once you’ve found someone you’re happy with, you can move forward with the project.
However, you can always ask for a second opinion if you’re unsure. It never hurts to have someone else take a look at the problem. Keep in mind that siding repair or replacement can be a big project. So, it’s important that you feel confident in your decision before moving forward.
Conclusion
I hope this article has helped you understand why your siding might make noise in the wind. I also hope it’s given you some ideas to fix the problem.
The best approach is to start by identifying the cause of the noise. Once you know that, you can take the necessary steps to fix it.
If you’re unsure what to do, I suggest contacting a contractor. They’ll be able to assess the situation and give you some professional advice.