Siding Check Day is observed annually on June 21 to encourage homeowners to inspect their house siding for damage, wear, and necessary repairs. This important maintenance holiday reminds us that regular siding inspection can prevent costly repairs and protect our homes from weather damage.
History of Siding Check Day
House siding has protected homes for centuries, evolving from simple log construction to today’s sophisticated materials and installation techniques. Houses were built as shelter from the elements, so their construction was more functional and less focused on aesthetics. Siding itself acts as protection — it’s the barrier between the house and the elements. The materials used for siding varied from area to area based on what was available locally. Some areas had masonry siding because of the abundance of stone, others used wood or thatch. The earliest form of siding was mud or clay in houses found in Egypt and Mesopotamia.
As humans evolved, so did their technology, which in turn improved their construction techniques. Wood was one of the most popular methods used in housing construction for a long time, think of New England houses. Bricks are another popular siding material. The Industrial Revolution had a major impact on house building as materials could be mass-produced, making them more accessible and affordable. In the mid-1900s, aluminum siding became popular as it was more durable than wood. A bit later, around the 1960s, vinyl siding took housing construction by storm. It was much more affordable and durable, and like aluminium, it required less maintenance when compared to wood.
Modern siding materials include fiber cement, engineered wood, and composite materials that combine the best features of traditional materials with improved durability and energy efficiency. Today’s siding systems often include insulation backing and moisture barriers, making homes more energy-efficient than ever before. Smart homeowners understand that regular siding inspection and maintenance, regardless of material, is essential for protecting their investment and maintaining their home’s curb appeal.
Siding Check Day FAQs
How to inspect siding?
There are a few things to look out for. This includes warping, peeling paint, twisted or bent slats, chips or dents, or any other physical damage. Don’t be scared to call a contractor to do a professional inspection if you’re concerned about damage, especially after a heavy storm.
How can you tell if the siding is damaged?
There are several signs that your siding is in need of repair or replacement. If your siding is warped or rotting, it could be an indication of water damage. Dry rot, cracked or broken slats, mildew, mold or fungus, and bubbling are a few other signs. These can also be symptoms of underlying issues, so don’t ignore them.
How often do you need to clean siding?
You should clean your siding at least every two years. In areas where algae and mold are more likely to grow, you’ll have to clean more frequently. It’s recommended to clean it after winter so that you can remove all the dirt and buildup, and have a fresh, clean house for warmer weather.
Siding Check Day Activities
Inspect your siding thoroughly
Don't take your siding for granted; it's a key component of your house. Be thorough with your inspection, take your time, and jot down any notes as reminders of what needs to be done. Keep an eye out for damage caused by water, especially around windows and doors.
Check for pest damage and infestations
Compromised siding could harbor any number of creatures, many of which you really don't want living there. Look for small holes or piles of dust where insects could have burrowed. Also, note any gaps that small pests could squeeze through.
Schedule professional repairs and maintenance
If there are only small touch-ups and repairs to be done, then you can definitely take care of that yourself. If there are larger repairs or pest infections, rather call the professionals to tackle it. Some siding may also require regular reapplication of protective coatings, so take this opportunity to get that sorted.
Popular Regional Siding Styles
New England's signature cedar shake
Cedar shingles on Cape Cod homes, known for their natural graying, became the preferred siding due to their durability against New England's harsh coastal climate.
Southern board-and-batten for heat and humidity
Traditional homes feature wide board-and-batten siding with deep overhangs — this allows hot air to rise and provides ventilation to prevent moisture buildup.
Midwest Prairie style focuses on horizontal lines
Frank Lloyd Wright's Prairie homes are known for their long, horizontal wood siding, a signature Midwestern style that uses wide, flat boards to visually harmonize with the region's expansive prairie landscapes.
Pacific Northwest embraces natural wood textures
The region's abundant rainfall and mild temperatures allow wood to weather and develop silver-gray patinas.
Southwest Adobe defines desert houses
This earth-based material absorbs heat during the day and releases it slowly at night, creating comfortable indoor temperatures without air conditioning.
Why We Love Siding Check Day
Protects our biggest investment
A home is one of the biggest investments we make, so ensuring it's well cared for is important. One way to protect this investment is to do regular siding maintenance. Frequent upkeep can avoid costly repairs in the future.
Encourages preventive thinking
Siding Check Day promotes the important habit of preventive home maintenance rather than reactive repairs. This proactive approach helps homeowners develop better maintenance routines, catch problems early, and maintain safer, more comfortable living environments for their families.
Increases curb appeal
Well-maintained siding significantly boosts your home's curb appeal, making it more attractive and potentially increasing its market value. Clean, well-kept siding makes a great first impression.
Siding Check Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | June 21 | Saturday |
| 2026 | June 21 | Sunday |
| 2027 | June 21 | Monday |
| 2028 | June 21 | Wednesday |
| 2029 | June 21 | Thursday |
