May 19, 2025
Siding

Holda Construction Siding & Window Trim Inspections: What to Expect

Homeownership comes with the joys of personal space and the responsibilities of maintenance and upkeep. One crucial aspect is maintaining your home’s exterior, particularly the siding and window trim, to keep it looking its best and to protect your family from the elements. Regular inspections help identify and address potential problems early. Here’s a comprehensive look at what happens during an inspection for home siding and window trim, incorporating additional details to ensure a thorough understanding.

1. Initial Assessment

Stepping Back for a Broad View

We always begin by observing the home from a distance, such as from the street or driveway, to get an overall sense of its condition. We look for elements that may not be level, plumb, or square. Many structural issues are apparent only when viewed from afar, so stepping back allows us to check the house’s overall shape, design, and structural features.

Visual Examination

After the broad view, we move closer to conduct a detailed visual examination. We look for obvious signs of wear and damage, such as:

Cracks or gaps in the siding
Peeling paint or faded colors
Warped or buckling panels
Missing or loose pieces
Rotting wood or mold growth

Checking for Moisture Damage

Moisture is a primary concern during an inspection, as it can cause significant damage if left unchecked. We look for:

Water stains or discoloration
Soft or spongy areas
Mold or mildew growth

2. Close-Up Inspection

Siding Material Evaluation

Different siding materials have unique characteristics and potential issues. We evaluate the specific type of siding on your home:

Vinyl Siding: Here we check for brittleness, cracks, and warping. Vinyl siding is especially vulnerable to impact damage from hail or errant objects. Cracked or split vinyl can invite moisture, mildew, termites, and other unwanted guests into your home’s infrastructure.
Wood Siding: We look for rot, insect damage, and warping. Missing paint exposes the underlying wood to nuisances like moisture and pests.
Fiber Cement Siding: We check for cracks, chipping, and water damage. Even durable materials like James Hardie fiber cement siding should be inspected regularly, especially after extreme weather events.
Aluminum Siding: During an aluminum siding inspection, it is important to look for signs of dents, scratches, or bends, which are common due to the metal’s softer nature. Additionally, we check for any corrosion or oxidation, particularly around fasteners and joints, as well as loose or missing pieces that could indicate improper installation or weather damage. It is also important to ensure that the paint or finish is intact to prevent further deterioration.
Masonite / Hardboard Siding: Hardboard and Masonite are terms used interchangeably for this type of siding (Masonite is a brand name), which is made from compressed wood fibers and resins. While examining hardboard or Masonite siding, we look for signs of swelling, buckling, or warping, particularly at the bottom edges where water exposure is more likely. Additionally, we check for any cracks, delamination, or blistering of the surface, which can indicate moisture penetration or age-related wear.

Window Trim Inspection

Here we closely examine the window trim for:

Cracks or splits in the wood or material
Peeling or flaking paint
Signs of rot or insect damage
Gaps between the trim and the window frame, which can allow water infiltration

3. Functional Tests

Checking for Proper Sealing

We check if the siding and trim are properly sealed to prevent water and air infiltration. This includes:

Evaluating the caulking around windows and doors
Checking for gaps or cracks where the siding meets other structures

Evaluating Structural Integrity

The overall structural integrity of the siding and trim is assessed. We look for:

Loose or detached panels
Signs of foundational issues that may cause siding misalignment
Damage from impact or severe weather conditions

4. Interior Inspection (If Needed)

Sometimes, issues with siding and window trim can manifest inside the home. Inside we look for:

Water stains on walls or ceilings near windows
Drafts or noticeable temperature differences around windows
Mold or mildew inside the home

5. Annual and Seasonal Considerations

Spring Inspections

Spring is an ideal time to inspect your siding. After the winter season, which can include freezing temperatures and rain, it’s crucial to ensure your siding is up to the task of insulating your home from summer’s intense heat and humidity. Early spring also marks the beginning of hail season, particularly important for vinyl siding owners who need to check for impact damage.

Areas of Focus

We pay special attention to areas most exposed to water, such as:

Spaces under eaves and downspouts
The windward side of the home
Locations where vines, tree limbs, or plants may brush against the siding
Around doors, windows, fascia, and other areas where the siding was cut or trimmed during installation

6. Probing for Hidden Issues

Testing for Water Damage

Vinyl siding is not water-tight, and wood is porous. These materials may not show water damage discernible to the naked eye. In order to test this, we gently probe suspect areas with a flat screwdriver or pull apart vinyl panels to check the underlying wood. Spongy surfaces indicate potential problems.

A common issue we see is that the final panel under the eaves or under the window is missing completely. Since this final panel needs to be cut to fit, it can often be installed incorrectly.

Checking Caulked Areas and Weep Holes

We check all caulked areas, weep holes, and displaced nails. Cracks or shrinkage in the caulking can allow moisture in and air-conditioned air out. They ensure weep holes are not blocked and that nails are properly driven flush or snug to the surface.

7. Reporting and Recommendations

Detailed Report

After the inspection, a detailed report is provided to the homeowner, outlining the condition of your siding and window trim. This report includes:

Photos and video of any damage or areas of concern
Descriptions of identified issues
A video assessment of the overall condition

Recommendations

Based on the findings, we then make recommendations for any needed repairs or replacements. This may include:

Minor repairs, such as re-caulking or replacing damaged panels
Suggestions for more extensive repairs if significant damage is found
Preventative measures to avoid future issues, such as regular maintenance tips

8. Next Steps

Repair or Replacement Plan

If repairs or replacements are necessary, we will help develop a plan. This involves:

Estimating costs for repairs or replacements
Discussing materials and options available for your specific needs
Scheduling the work to be done

Follow-Up Inspections

Regular follow-up inspections can help ensure that any repairs or replacements have been effective and that your siding and window trim remain in good condition.

Conclusion

An inspection for home siding and window trim is a comprehensive process that helps identify and address potential issues early. By understanding what happens during an inspection, homeowners can be better prepared to maintain their home’s exterior and ensure its longevity and functionality. Regular inspections and timely repairs can save you from more extensive and costly damage in the future, keeping your home beautiful and well-protected. Taking a proactive approach to home maintenance, especially with the help of trained professionals, provides peace of mind and long-lasting results.

Ready for a siding inspection at your home? Contact us at 847.847.2883 or by filling out our contact form. We’d be more than happy to help!