As a house flipper, inspecting a property's siding is essential to assess its condition and determine whether it needs repair or replacement. Siding plays a crucial role in protecting the house from the elements and contributes significantly to its curb appeal.
Siding typically lasts 15 to 30 years or more, depending on the material and maintenance. It's often original to the property, making it relatively easy to determine its age. If the siding appears original, thoroughly examine it for signs of wear and tear that could indicate potential problems.
Ensure the siding meets safety standards and building codes.
Structural Integrity: Check for loose or damaged siding panels that could pose a safety hazard.
Fire Safety: If the siding is wood or another combustible material, ensure it meets fire safety codes and has proper clearances from heat sources.
Moisture Barriers: Verify the presence of a properly installed moisture barrier behind the siding to prevent water damage.
Analyze the siding's aesthetic appeal and how it compares to other homes in the neighborhood.
Curb Appeal: Evaluate the overall appearance of the siding. Does it enhance or detract from the home's curb appeal? First impressions matter, and siding plays a huge role in how buyers perceive a property.
Style and Color: Consider the style and color of the siding in relation to current trends and the architectural style of the home.
Neighborhood Standards: Compare the siding to that of comparable properties in the neighborhood, especially those recently flipped.
Competitive Advantage: Based on your observations, determine what level of siding renovation is necessary to make your property competitive. Can you get away with a thorough cleaning and fresh paint, or does the siding need a complete overhaul to attract buyers? Remember, over-improving can eat into your profits, but under-improving can make it harder to sell.
By analyzing the competition, you can make strategic decisions about your siding renovation. This will help you strike the right balance between cost and value, ensuring your property appeals to buyers without unnecessary expenses.
Evaluate the overall condition of the siding and identify any signs of damage or deterioration.
Faded or Discolored Siding: Look for fading or discoloration, which can indicate age and potential vulnerability to damage.
Dry Rot: Check for signs of dry rot, especially in areas with heavy sun exposure or moisture. Use a tool (like a car key) to test for soft spots.
Water Damage: Look for water stains, fungus, mold, or mildew on the siding, particularly near horizontal surfaces where water can pool.
Termite or Ant Damage: Inspect for signs of termite or carpenter ant activity, such as damaged wood, droppings, or mud tubes.
Cracked or Broken Siding: Note any cracked, broken, or warped siding panels that need repair or replacement.
Missing Caulk: Check for missing or cracked caulk around joints and trim, which can allow water penetration.
When inspecting siding, pay close attention to the south-facing side of the house, as it receives the most sun exposure and is more prone to damage. Also, be sure to check areas where the siding meets other surfaces (like roofs, decks, and foundations) as these are common areas for water damage to occur.
To estimate siding repair or replacement costs, you'll need to take some measurements: