1960–1980 Common Siding Damage
Common Siding Damage: Homes built in Feasterville-Trevose between 1960 and 1980 often have aging siding that’s nearing the end of its life. Key signs of failure include cracking, warping, fading, and chalking, which can lead to significant moisture damage. Materials like early-generation vinyl and aluminum are particularly vulnerable to Pennsylvania’s harsh weather. A full siding replacement in Feasterville, PA, is often a better long-term investment than repeated repairs, boosting curb appeal, energy efficiency, and home value. Choosing a certified, local contractor like Paragon Exterior ensures a quality installation with modern materials designed to last for decades.
Hidden Problems with Feasterville’s Retro Homes
Feasterville-Trevose and the surrounding Bucks County suburbs are filled with charming homes built during the post-war boom, from the classic split-levels of the 1960s to the colonial revivals of the 1980s. These houses represent an era of growth and community, but their exteriors are now facing a common enemy: time. The siding that has protected these homes for 40, 50, or even 60 years is showing its age, and the signs aren’t just cosmetic.
For homeowners planning siding replacement feasterville pa, choosing materials suited to local weather and a contractor experienced with regional installation practices helps achieve lasting results.
Many local homeowners are frustrated by siding that looks chalky, feels brittle, or has started to warp and pull away from the house. These aren’t just minor imperfections; they are symptoms of material failure. For homes in this age bracket, a complete siding replacement in Feasterville, PA, is becoming less of a choice and more of a necessity. The original siding materials were simply not designed to withstand a half-century of Pennsylvania’s humid summers, icy winters, and dramatic freeze-thaw cycles.
Ignoring these warning signs can lead to one of the biggest fears for any homeowner: hidden moisture damage. What starts as a small crack can allow water to seep behind the siding, causing rot, mold, and structural issues that are far more expensive to fix than the siding itself. As a local exterior contractor with over 20 years of combined team experience, we at Paragon Exterior have seen firsthand how quickly these problems can escalate. This guide will walk you through common issues with aging siding in Feasterville, help you decide between repair and replacement, and show you what to expect from a modern, professional siding installation that will protect your home for decades to come.
The Telltale Signs of Aging Siding on Feasterville’s Retro Homes
Your home’s siding is its first line of defense against the elements. But after decades of service, that defense weakens. For homes built between 1960 and 1980, the siding is often well past its expected lifespan. Homeowners in Feasterville-Trevose should be vigilant for the subtle and not-so-subtle signs that indicate it’s time for a siding inspection in Trevose. Catching these issues early can prevent more significant problems down the road.
Many of these signs are easy to spot if you know what to look for. A simple walk around your property can reveal a lot about the health of your home’s exterior. Don’t dismiss these as just “cosmetic” issues; they are often indicators of deeper problems with your retro home siding issues.
5 Obvious Signs Your Siding is Failing:
- Cracks, Holes, and Gaps: These are the most direct signs of failure. Even small cracks can allow moisture to penetrate the underlayment, leading to rot and mold. Holes from pests, storms, or accidental impacts compromise the entire protective barrier.
- Warping and Buckling: If siding panels are no longer lying flat against the wall, it’s a major red flag. This is often caused by improper installation or severe moisture behind the siding, which can cause the wall sheathing to swell. This is a common problem with older, thinner, warped vinyl.
- Fading and Discoloration: The protective UV coating on older siding materials breaks down over time. Significant fading indicates the material has become brittle and is losing its structural integrity. A chalky residue that sticks to your hand is a clear sign of advanced UV degradation.
- Mold, Mildew, or Fungus Growth: While some surface mildew can be cleaned, persistent growth, especially near seams and joints, suggests that moisture is being trapped within or behind the siding panels. This is a clear sign of moisture damage that requires professional assessment.
- Peeling Paint or Rotting Wood: For homes with wood siding, peeling paint is a sign that the wood is absorbing moisture and can no longer hold a finish. If you can press a screwdriver into the wood and it feels soft or spongy, you have rot, which requires immediate attention.
Pro Tip: Check Your Utility Bills
Have your heating and cooling costs been creeping up? Failing siding often corresponds with poor insulation. Gaps and cracks allow air to leak, forcing your HVAC system to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. A siding replacement in Feasterville, PA, with modern, insulated options can significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency.
Why 1960s-1980s Siding is Failing: Materials and Methods of the Past
The siding installed on homes in the 60s, 70s, and 80s was revolutionary for its time, offering homeowners an alternative to traditional wood. However, these early-generation materials lack the advanced engineering and durability of today’s products. Understanding their inherent weaknesses explains why so many Feasterville homes are now in need of a siding overhaul.
Common materials from that era included aluminum and early-generation vinyl. While low-maintenance compared to wood, they had significant drawbacks that are now becoming apparent after decades of exposure to Pennsylvania’s climate.
- Aluminum Siding: Popular for its light weight and rust resistance, aluminum siding was a common choice. However, its biggest flaw is its susceptibility to denting and scratching. The baked-on enamel finish also tends to fade and become chalky over time, and repainting is a frequent necessity.
- Early Vinyl Siding: The vinyl siding of the 1970s and 80s was much thinner and more brittle than modern vinyl. It was prone to cracking in cold weather and could warp or melt under intense heat or even from the reflection of a neighbor’s window. Color options were limited, and fading was a significant issue.
- Wood Siding: While beautiful, traditional wood siding requires constant maintenance. Without regular painting or staining every 3-7 years, it is highly susceptible to rot, insect damage (like termites and carpenter ants), and moisture absorption, especially in PA’s humid climate.
- Asbestos Siding: Some older homes may have asbestos-cement shingles. While durable and fire-resistant, this material is hazardous when cut, broken, or disturbed. Removal requires specialized procedures and is not a DIY project.
The table below compares these older materials to the modern solutions we install today, highlighting the significant advancements in durability, maintenance, and long-term value.
| Feature | Retro Siding (1960s-80s) | Modern Siding (Vinyl & Fiber Cement) |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Prone to cracking (vinyl), denting (aluminum), and rotting (wood). Lifespan of 10-20 years. | Highly resistant to impact, warping, and moisture. Lifespan of 30-50+ years. |
| Weather Resistance | Becomes brittle in cold, can warp in heat. Susceptible to wind damage. | Engineered for specific climates (like PA’s) to handle freeze-thaw cycles and high winds. |
| Maintenance | High (wood requires frequent painting), moderate (aluminum chalks and fades). | Low to minimal. Requires only occasional washing—no painting needed for vinyl or factory-finished fiber cement. |
| Aesthetics | Limited colors, prone to fading. It can look “plastic-like” or dated. | Vast range of rich, fade-resistant colors and realistic wood-grain textures. |
| Energy Efficiency | Minimal insulation value. | Options for integrated foam insulation provide significant R-value and energy savings. |
Uncovering Moisture Damage Behind Your Siding
Of all the retro home siding issues, none is more destructive than moisture damage. What often starts as an invisible leak through a tiny crack or a failed seam can lead to catastrophic problems for your home’s structure. In Pennsylvania’s climate, with its heavy rains and humid summers, the risk of water infiltration behind aging siding in Feasterville is particularly high.
When water gets trapped behind siding, it creates a perfect environment for mold, mildew, and rot. The wooden sheathing that forms the structural backbone of your walls can become soft and spongy, losing its integrity. This is a concern many homeowners on local forums express—the fear of what expensive surprises might be lurking underneath their old siding.
Hidden Dangers of Siding Moisture Damage
- Structural Rot: The most severe consequence. Water-soaked wood sheathing and framing studs will rot, compromising the structural integrity of your walls. This is an expensive and complex repair.
- Mold and Mildew Growth: Trapped moisture can lead to mold growth, which can spread unseen in your wall cavities. This not only damages the home but can also pose serious health risks to your family by degrading indoor air quality.
- Pest Infestations: Damp, rotting wood is an open invitation for termites, carpenter ants, and other wood-destroying insects.
- Insulation Damage: Wet insulation becomes compressed and loses its R-value, leading to higher energy bills and cold spots in your home.
- Interior Damage: Eventually, the moisture will find its way inside, causing peeling paint or wallpaper, water stains on ceilings and walls, and musty odors.
A professional siding inspection in Trevose is crucial. At Paragon Exterior, our process for a siding replacement in Feasterville, PA always includes carefully removing the old siding and thoroughly inspecting the substrate. If we find any rot or damage, we address it properly before installing a new, high-performance weather-resistive barrier and your new siding. This ensures your home is protected from the inside out.
Warped, Cracked, and Faded: The Truth About Old Vinyl Siding
For many homes in Feasterville built in the 70s and 80s, vinyl siding was the go-to choice. It promised low maintenance and a modern look. However, the technology of that era couldn’t produce the resilient, long-lasting product we have today. As a result, many homeowners are now dealing with warped vinyl, cracking, and other signs of premature failure.
One of the biggest complaints we hear from local homeowners is about siding that looks wavy or buckled. This isn’t just an eyesore; it’s a sign that the material is failing under thermal stress. Older vinyl was thin and expanded and contracted significantly with temperature changes. Pennsylvania’s dramatic swings—from freezing winters to hot, humid summers—put immense stress on these panels. If not installed with enough room for this movement, the panels will buckle and warp.
Why Old Vinyl Fails in the Feasterville Climate
Key Stress Factors on Aging Vinyl Siding
- Brittleness in Cold: In winter, old vinyl becomes extremely brittle. A stray baseball, a falling icicle, or even a hard knock can cause it to crack or shatter, creating an entry point for moisture.
- Warping in Heat: Intense summer sun, especially on south-facing walls, can cause panels to soften and warp. This is exacerbated by reflections from low-E windows, which can concentrate heat and melt the siding.
- Fading and Chalking: The UV inhibitors in older vinyl were not as effective. After decades of sun exposure, the color fades unevenly, and the surface breaks down into a chalky powder, indicating the plastic is degrading.
- Wind Damage: Older, thinner panels with less robust locking mechanisms are more susceptible to being lifted or torn off by high winds during Pennsylvania’s notorious storms.
If your home exhibits these symptoms, it’s a clear sign that the material has reached the end of its useful life. A modern siding replacement in Feasterville, PA, using premium, thicker-gauge vinyl or durable fiber cement is the only permanent solution.
Siding Repair vs. Replacement: A Feasterville Homeowner’s Guide
One of the most common questions we get from homeowners in Feasterville-Trevose is whether they can get by with a simple repair or if they need a full replacement. It’s a valid concern, driven by budget and the desire to avoid a major renovation. The answer depends on the age of your siding, the extent of the damage, and your long-term goals for the home.
While a small, isolated repair might seem cost-effective, it can be a temporary solution that ends up costing more in the long run. For aging siding in Feasterville, especially on homes from the 1960-1980 era, replacement is often the smarter financial decision. Patching old, brittle material is difficult, and color-matching faded siding is nearly impossible, resulting in a mismatched, “checkerboard” look.
Decision-Making Chart: Repair or Replace?
| Siding Issue | Consider Repair If… | Consider Replacement If… |
|---|---|---|
| A few cracked or loose panels | The damage is isolated to one small area (e.g., from a single impact), and the rest of the siding is in good condition. | The cracks are widespread, or the siding is over 15-20 years old and brittle. This indicates systemic failure. |
| Minor fading or discoloration | The fading is minimal, and you can live with the cosmetic appearance. | The siding is chalky to the touch, or the color has faded significantly. This means the UV protection is gone. |
| Small amount of mold/mildew | The growth is only on the surface and can be easily washed off. | Mold is growing at the seams, or you see signs of moisture damage, such as peeling interior paint. This suggests water is trapped behind the siding. |
| Warping or buckling | A single panel has buckled due to a specific issue that can be corrected. | Multiple panels are warped, or the buckling is widespread. This points to systemic installation or moisture issues. |
| High energy bills | Your siding is in good shape, but you want to improve insulation. (Note: adding insulation under old siding is not recommended.) | Your siding is old, and you want to improve energy efficiency. New insulated siding systems offer a significant upgrade. |
The Problem with “Patching” Old Siding
Attempting to repair siding that is 30+ years old is often a losing battle. The old material is brittle and will likely crack during the repair attempt. Furthermore, finding a matching panel is nearly impossible due to color fading and discontinued product lines. A full siding replacement in Feasterville, PA, provides a uniform, beautiful, and fully warrantied solution that protects your entire home.
Siding Replacement Process in Feasterville
Undertaking a complete siding replacement can feel daunting, which is why we prioritize clear communication and a transparent, stress-free process. Knowing what to expect from start to finish can alleviate the anxiety many homeowners feel. At Paragon Exterior, we’ve refined our process to ensure efficiency, quality, and minimal disruption to your daily life.
A professional siding replacement is more than just hanging new panels. It’s a systematic process that ensures your home is appropriately protected, resulting in a beautiful, durable final product. Here is a step-by-step breakdown of what a typical siding replacement with our team in Feasterville, PA, involves.
Our 7-Step Siding Replacement Process:
- Initial Consultation & Free Estimate: The process begins when you contact us. We schedule a free, no-pressure consultation, typically within 24-48 hours. We’ll discuss your needs, inspect your current siding, and provide a detailed, transparent estimate.
- Material Selection and Planning: We help you choose the perfect siding material, style, and color for your home and budget. Once you’ve made your selections, we order the materials and establish a clear project timeline.
- Site Preparation: Before we begin, please clear the area around your home of furniture, vehicles, and decorations. Our crew then protects your landscaping, windows, and doors with drop cloths and covers to prevent any damage.
- Old Siding Removal and Inspection: Our team carefully removes all old siding and disposes of it in a dumpster. This is a critical step: we perform a thorough siding inspection in Trevose, checking the underlying sheathing for signs of rot or moisture damage. Any issues found are documented and discussed with you before we proceed with repairs.
- Substrate Repair and Weather Barrier Installation: Any damaged sheathing is repaired or replaced. We then install a high-quality, breathable weather-resistive barrier (like house wrap) that meets or exceeds Pennsylvania building codes. This is your home’s crucial defense against moisture.
- New Siding Installation: Our factory-certified installers meticulously install your new siding, whether it’s vinyl or fiber cement. We pay close attention to detail, ensuring proper nailing, spacing for expansion, and a flawless finish around windows, doors, and corners.
- Final Touches and Meticulous Cleanup: We install all trim, soffit, and fascia, and caulk all necessary seams for a watertight seal. After a final inspection with you, we conduct a thorough cleanup. We use tools like the Equipter to minimize ground debris and run magnetic rollers to pick up stray nails, leaving your property as clean as we found it.
Choosing the Right Siding Material for Your Feasterville Home
When it comes to siding replacement in Feasterville, PA, the most significant decision you’ll make is the material. Today’s options are far superior to the products available in the 1960s-80s. The two most popular and high-performing choices for Pennsylvania homes are modern vinyl siding and fiber cement siding.
Both materials offer excellent durability and low maintenance, but they differ in cost, aesthetics, and long-term value. Understanding these differences will help you make the best investment for your home’s style, your budget, and the demands of our local climate.
Vinyl Siding vs. James Hardie® Fiber Cement Siding
As a trusted local contractor, we frequently help homeowners weigh the pros and cons of these two leading materials. Here’s a detailed comparison to guide your decision.
| Feature | Premium Vinyl Siding | James Hardie® Fiber Cement |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic resin. | Blend of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. |
| Durability | Good. Resists moisture and rot. It can become brittle in extreme cold and may crack on impact. Lifespan of 20-40 years. | Excellent. Resists warping, cracking, rot, pests, and fire. Engineered for PA’s climate. Lifespan of 30-50+ years. |
| Aesthetics | Good. Wide range of colors and styles, but can look “plastic-like” up close. Thinner profile. | Excellent. Deeply embossed wood-grain texture for an authentic, high-end look. About 5 times thicker than vinyl. |
| Maintenance | Very Low. Never needs painting. Requires occasional washing. | Low. ColorPlus® Technology finish is fade-resistant and warrantied for 15 years. Requires occasional washing. |
| Cost (2,500 sq. ft. home) | ~$16,000 – $20,000. Lower upfront cost. | ~$25,000 – $32,000. Higher initial investment. |
| Return on Investment (ROI) | Good. Around 60-68%. | Excellent. Around 80-86%. Adds significant resale value. |
| Fire Resistance | Combustible. It can melt or warp when exposed to high heat. | Non-combustible. Will not ignite or contribute fuel to a fire. |
For homeowners in Feasterville looking to save, modern vinyl siding is an excellent, cost-effective choice that provides decades of protection. For those seeking maximum durability, superior aesthetics, and the best long-term return on investment, James Hardie® fiber cement is the clear winner, especially given its resilience to Pennsylvania’s harsh weather.
Why Choose Paragon Exterior for Your Siding Project
Choosing a contractor for your siding replacement in Feasterville, PA, is a decision that impacts your home’s value and protection for decades. In a market where homeowners are justifiably wary of poor-quality installs and unexpected costs, Paragon Exterior stands apart by building trust through transparency, craftsmanship, and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction.
We understand the unique challenges of working on homes in Feasterville-Trevose and the greater Philadelphia area. From navigating local building codes to selecting materials that can withstand our four-season climate, our regional expertise is built into every project. We treat your home as if it were our own, a philosophy that guides every action our team takes, from the initial consultation to the final cleanup.
The Paragon Exterior Difference:
- Factory-Certified Expertise: Our in-house team is factory-certified to install leading siding products, including James Hardie and premium vinyl. This ensures your installation meets strict manufacturer standards, protecting your warranty and guaranteeing long-term performance.
- Industry-Leading Warranties: We stand behind our work with robust warranties, including options like GAF’s Golden Pledge for roofing, which covers workmanship for up to 25 years. We bring this same commitment to quality and protection to our siding projects.
- Unmatched Cleanliness: We are known for our exceptional job site cleanliness. By using advanced technology like the Equipter, a self-propelled, raisable container, we manage debris effectively, protecting your lawn, landscaping, and driveway from damage.
- Transparent and Reliable Communication: From the moment you request your free estimate, you’ll experience clear, consistent communication. Our project managers keep you informed every step of the way, ensuring there are no surprises. Homeowners consistently praise our reliability and the respect our crews show for their property and time.
- Local and Trusted: With over 20 years of combined experience serving Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware, we have a proven track record of success. Our 63+ five-star reviews reflect our dedication to creating a stress-free renovation experience.
- Flexible and Accessible: We make it easy to get started with free, no-pressure estimates scheduled within 24-48 hours. We also offer a price-match guarantee and flexible financing options to make your project more affordable.
When you partner with Paragon Exterior, you’re not just hiring a contractor; you’re choosing a dedicated team that values quality, integrity, and building lasting relationships within our community.
Frequently Asked Questions About Siding Replacement
Do I need a permit for siding replacement in Feasterville-Trevose, PA?
Generally, in Pennsylvania, cosmetic replacements, such as vinyl siding on existing residential buildings, do not require a UCC permit under Act 108 of 2006. However, if the project involves structural changes, it’s always best to verify with the Lower Southampton Township or Bensalem Township building department, depending on your exact location. As your contractor, Paragon Exterior handles all necessary permit applications to ensure your project is fully compliant.
How long does a siding replacement project take in Bucks County?
A typical complete siding replacement on an average-sized home in Feasterville takes about 7 to 14 days from start to finish. The total timeline can range from two to four weeks, including initial planning, material delivery, installation, and cleanup. Factors like home size, complexity, and weather can affect the duration.
What is the best time of year to replace siding in Pennsylvania?
Spring and fall are generally considered the ideal seasons for siding installation in PA due to moderate temperatures and lower humidity. However, professional crews can work in most seasons. Winter can be a smart time to schedule, as contractors may have more availability and offer off-season pricing, provided temperatures are above the material’s minimum threshold (around 35°F for vinyl).
Is James Hardie siding worth the extra cost for a Feasterville home?
For many homeowners, yes. While James Hardie has a higher upfront cost, its superior durability, fire resistance, and higher ROI (up to 86%) make it a smarter long-term investment for Pennsylvania’s harsh climate. It resists the cracking and warping that can plague vinyl in our freeze-thaw cycles.
How can I tell if a siding estimate is fair and complete?
A trustworthy estimate should be detailed and transparent, breaking down costs for materials, labor, permits, and debris disposal. It should specify the exact products being used and outline the scope of work, including repairs to hidden damage. Be wary of vague, lump-sum bids, which are a common red flag mentioned by local homeowners.
Will new siding really lower my energy bills?
Yes, especially if you choose an insulated siding option. Damaged or old siding compromises your home’s thermal envelope. A new, properly installed siding system with a weather-resistive barrier can significantly reduce air leakage, making your home more comfortable and lowering your HVAC costs.
What happens if you find rot under my old siding?
This is a common concern with older homes. Our process includes a thorough inspection after removing the old siding. If we find rot or moisture damage, we stop, document the issue with photos, and discuss the necessary repairs and any associated costs with you before proceeding. Transparency is key—we fix problems, we don’t cover them up.
What kind of warranty do you offer on siding replacement?
We offer robust warranties that cover both materials and workmanship. As factory-certified installers, we can provide access to the best manufacturer warranties, such as James Hardie’s 30-year limited warranty. We also offer our own workmanship warranty, giving you complete peace of mind.
How do you protect my property during the installation?
We treat your home with the utmost respect. We use drop cloths to protect landscaping and hardscaping, and our use of the Equipter debris management system drastically reduces mess on the ground. Our crews conduct a thorough magnetic sweep for nails and cleanup at the end of each day and upon project completion.
Can I finance my siding replacement project?
Absolutely. We understand that a siding replacement is a significant investment. Paragon Exterior offers flexible financing options to help you get the protection your home needs now, with a payment plan that fits your budget. Ask about our options during your free estimate.
Conclusion: Protect Your Investment with a Modern Siding Solution
For homeowners in Feasterville-Trevose with houses built between 1960 and 1980, the time for a serious look at your siding is now. The chalky finishes, brittle cracks, and warped panels are more than just cosmetic flaws; they are urgent warnings that your home’s primary defense is failing. As we’ve explored, the materials and methods of the past are no match for decades of Pennsylvania’s demanding weather, and ignoring the signs of aging siding in Feasterville can lead to costly hidden problems like moisture damage and structural rot.
Deciding on a complete siding replacement in Feasterville, PA, can feel overwhelming, especially with concerns about cost and finding a trustworthy contractor. However, viewing it as a long-term investment in your home’s health, value, and curb appeal is key. Modern materials like premium vinyl and James Hardie® fiber cement offer durability, energy efficiency, and low-maintenance beauty that older products simply cannot match. This isn’t just a repair; it’s an upgrade that fortifies your home for the next 30 to 50 years.
Don’t wait for a small crack to become a significant structural issue. With winter approaching, securing your home’s exterior is more critical than ever. By partnering with a certified, local expert like Paragon Exterior, you can navigate the process with confidence, knowing you’re getting transparent pricing, superior craftsmanship, and a solution tailored to protect your Feasterville home. Take the first step toward peace of mind and a beautiful, protected home today.
Ready to Get Started?
Paragon Exterior is Feasterville-Trevose’s trusted choice for siding replacement. Our experienced team provides:
- Free, no-pressure estimates within 24-48 hours
- Factory-certified installations with industry-leading warranties
- Licensed, insured, and highly-rated professionals
- Transparent pricing and clear communication
Call us today at (215) 799-7663
