Be on the Safe Side and Winter Proof Your Home’s Siding

Sep 21, 2023

Winter can be a hard season for us, as the days grow shorter, and we find ourselves spending much of our time indoors. But winter can also be a hard season for our homes, as they work to withstand harsher weather elements, like the cold air, ice, and snow.

Before winter is fully upon us, it is time to think specifically about the siding of your house. “The siding of your home is like a shield,” said Scott Cline, co-owner of J & B Construction. “It protects your home from hibernating creatures, the extra moisture that comes with winter, and it also keeps the warm air inside.”

Is your siding prepared to shield you during the season ahead? The following are tips Scott recommends to winter proof your siding.

Conduct a visual check

Get outside and look at your siding. “Pay particular attention to your windows and doors, as well as the areas between the trim and siding,” Scott said. “Gaps, holes, and cracks are usually found in those spots.”

The most important job of your siding is to protect your home from moisture. Using caulk to seal the gaps, cracks, or holes you find is a good first step in protecting your home from ice and snow.

Improve its look

You can also fight moisture intrusion by painting your siding and cleaning it. Apply a primer or sealer, as well as a top layer of paint, to not only give your siding a fresh look, but also to prevent water damage. In addition, pressure washing your siding of dirt, mildew, mold, and other debris will help quite a bit.

“The dirt and debris that is on your siding right now will attract moisture and more dirt in the winter,” Scott said. “This not only heightens the chance of moisture seeping into your house, but it also can cause your siding to fade and stain.”

Take other actions

“At J & B Construction, we also recommend cleaning your gutters and trimming back plants close to your siding,” Scott said.

Ensuring that water can flow freely through your drainage system and out through your gutters — positioned away from your home — prevents chances of that water impacting the siding.

Tree branches that can fall and knock the siding loose or plants that will drip onto the siding as ice and snow melts should be trimmed or removed to ensure moisture and dirt does not increase.

If you notice any damage to your siding, or find that these recommendations do not help, J & B Construction can help you replace your siding and confirm it is winter proof. “As the most experienced siding team in southeast Wisconsin, our experienced staff will help you every step of the way as we work together to protect your home and your siding,” Scott said.

Contact J & B Construction today at 262-437-0537 or complete our appointment form to begin the process of replacing your siding.

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Enjoy Peace Of Mind

The only complaint I have is when I have J&B do my roof in another 30 years or so, is Dave their sales man (a great guy) would not guaranty I could get the same great crew I had this time. They did a fantastic job. Much better than the last roofing company did. A nice bunch of guys. Did a very nice job cleaning up. I'd give them 10 stars but 5 is the limit. If you need a roof done this is the company you want to do it. One more point I need to make. The guys that did the chimney flashing are artists. I went up on the roof when they were done and was very pleased with not only the roofing job but the sculptured sheet metal work. It's kind of a shame it's on the roof and not hanging on the family room wall :). You get the point. Hire em. You'll like em.

Dave H

We live in a historic designated neighborhood and recently had our 30 year wood shingle roof replaced with another wood roof and new gutters. From Day 1 of the project to the final day, the entire team was responsive, professional, and very competent. When some minor changes were proposed by us they quickly and effortlessly complied. After going through this experience with J&B, I would highly recommend them to anyone considering a roof and gutter replacement, whether it be a simple or complicated project.

John Lamb

J & B did an amazing job from start to finish. The initial meeting at my home took place exactly at the time that was agreed upon and Scott was thorough in his explanations and transparent about costs. When the time came to begin the project, the team that showed up was friendly, professional and timely in getting the project done. The cleanup afterward was such that it looked like they hadn't been there at all. The roof looks great, there were no surprises and Scott came by to inspect the work and explain the warranty upon job completion. I would highly recommend them.

Kenneth Simons