Vinyl siding is a durable and low-maintenance option for most
houses in Calgary. It is available in many shades and designs
and can last for several years. But, after some time, you may
find your siding is no longer as white or vibrant as originally.
This is referred to as fading. Fading vinyl siding appears dull
and reduces the looks of your house. But why does it occur?
Sunlight and UV Rays
The biggest cause of vinyl siding fading is sunlight, particularly
ultraviolet (UV) rays. When the sun hits your house every day,
the heat and UV rays gradually wear away the colour of the vinyl.
It happens faster if your house is exposed to the sun for most of
the day. Sunlight can bleach clothes or auto paint, and it can bleach
your siding as well.
Age of the Siding
Old vinyl siding deteriorates faster than new.
Better materials and UV protection make up today’s vinyl siding. If
your siding is older than 15–20 years, fading is to be expected.
As the siding ages, the colour deteriorates, and it can look chalky or pale.
Weather Conditions in Calgary
The weather in Calgary is tough on the siding. High temperatures in
the summer, cold temperatures in the winter, hail, and snow all take a
toll on your siding. Temperature fluctuations can make the siding
expand and then contract, which can make it fade faster. Hail or
wind-borne debris can scratch the surface as well, so it appears even more dull.
Low-Quality Siding Material
All vinyl siding is not created equal. Lower-grade siding might
lack enough UV protection or robust colour pigments. This
indicates it will fade quicker than high-grade products. If your
siding was installed years ago or on a budget, that might be
why it’s fading now.
Pollution and Dirt Buildup
Pollution, dust, and dirt can also make your siding look faded,
even if the colour hasn’t changed. Over time, grime sticks to the
surface, making the colour look dull. Regular cleaning can
help remove this layer and keep your siding looking better longer.
Can You Fix the Faded Vinyl Siding?
Faded siding can be washed or even painted to enhance its appearance.
But it isn’t always good to paint vinyl siding—it’s only acceptable to do
it with the correct paint and the right preparation. Paint jobs may not
hold up very long and may invalidate the siding’s warranty in some
instances. If your siding is extremely faded and old, it’s usually wiser to
replace it with new, contemporary siding that will last longer and look
more attractive.
How to Prevent Fading
You can’t stop the sun from shining, but there are a few ways to slow
down fading. Choose siding with built-in UV protection. Modern siding
includes fade-resistant technology. Keep your siding clean with a gentle
washing once or twice a year. This removes dirt and helps the colour shine.
Trim nearby trees to allow even sunlight, which prevents uneven fading.
Install light-coloured siding, which fades less visibly than dark colours.
When to Replace Faded Siding
If your siding is extremely faded, cracked, or beginning to warp, it
may be time to replace it completely. Replacing faded siding enhances
your home’s curb appeal and defends it against weather damage.
At Straight Path Construction, we assist Calgary homeowners in selecting
long-lasting, fade-resistant siding that meets your style and budget.
Final Thought
Vinyl siding deteriorates largely due to the sun, weather, and ageing.
Moderately faded siding is normal, but extremely faded siding can
damage your home’s look and might be necessary to replace. Keep
your siding clean, check for wear signs, and select high-quality materials
to maintain your home’s freshness.
Call to Action
Does your vinyl siding appear faded or dull? Call Straight Path
Construction today to have your siding inspected. We will assist
you with determining whether cleaning, painting, or complete
replacement is the most suitable option for your property. Visit
our website to find out more or arrange a complimentary consultation
in Calgary.
