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Elite Edition

What kind of problems can siding be having?

Author

Sarah Martinez

Published Apr 07, 2026

What kind of problems can siding be having?

When they’ve expended those food sources, they often create “feeder tubes”—hollow channels in your siding that destroy the structural integrity of the wood. Because these tubes are hidden under the surface of the siding, they’ve often difficult to spot before it’s too late.

What does the bottom of the mold indicator mean?

The bottom indicator could be a mold identifier, and in some cases, it might be a shift indicator (although this would typically be a clock going from 1 to 3, 4, or 6 depending on how shifts are allocated rather than the example showing 0 to 5). See e.g. this manufacturer’s datasheet on mold indicators:

Why are there so many bugs on my wood siding?

Pests mostly come from below, so if your wood siding is flush against the ground, there’s a greater chance for damage from moisture and the resulting insect infestations. If soil, overgrowth, or mulch have completely covered your foundation, you’ll need to dig yourself out to avoid future problems.

What does the clock like symbols under plastic containers mean?

The upper dial gives the year, the middle one, the month. The bottom indicator could be a mold identifier, and in some cases, it might be a shift indicator (although this would typically be a clock going from 1 to 3, 4, or 6 depending on how shifts are allocated rather than the example showing 0 to 5).

What do you need to know about SIP panels?

T/F: SIP panels are typically made by sandwiching a core of rigid foam plastic insulation between two structural skins of OSB. T/F: SIPs are self-sealing, so they don’t require any additional sealing at the joints.

What makes aluminum siding susceptible to moisture damage?

Aluminum siding _______ easily, so many manufacturers offer a thin backerboard of insulation that fits behind each panel. T/F: Aluminum expands and contracts with temperature changes. If exposed to the elements, ________ will absorb moisture quickly, making it swell, so it is particularly susceptible to moisture and physical damage.

How can I find out if my siding has asbestos?

If your siding has these characteristics, then asbestos could be present. You may choose to take a sample of siding from a damaged area of siding. Put on a mask and scrape away some siding material into a baggie. Contact an accredited testing lab in your area to analyze your sample.

What should not be installed behind vinyl siding?

T/F: Building paper or housewrap should not be installed behind vinyl siding. T/F: Wood shingles and shakes do not add strength to the house’s structure. T/F: Ideally, joints in courses of wood siding should be staggered.