You notice your vinyl siding suddenly bowing, rippling, or looking like it has been exposed to intense heat. Your first instinct might be to blame a grill, a manufacturing defect, or summer weather. But if the damage is concentrated on a wall facing a neighboring home, the source could be reflected sunlight from nearby windows.<\/p>\n
Modern Low-E windows are designed to improve energy efficiency by reflecting solar heat. Under certain conditions, that reflected sunlight can become concentrated on a nearby surface, creating enough heat to warp or distort vinyl siding.<\/p>\n
Low-E, or low-emissivity, windows feature a thin coating designed to control heat transfer through the glass. During summer, this technology helps reflect solar energy away from the home, while during winter it helps keep indoor heat where it belongs.<\/p>\n
Normally, reflected sunlight disperses without causing a problem. However, insulated glass can develop slight curvature as temperatures and pressure conditions change. In certain situations, that curvature can concentrate reflected sunlight onto a relatively small area of a neighboring home.<\/p>\n
When that concentrated sunlight repeatedly strikes vinyl siding, surface temperatures can become much higher than they would from ordinary direct sunlight. Over time, the affected siding may begin to ripple, bow, or warp.<\/p>\n
Before assuming your siding is defective, observe the damaged area at different times during a sunny day.<\/p>\n
If a concentrated reflection moves across the wall and repeatedly aligns with the warped area, reflected sunlight may be contributing to the damage.<\/p>\n
Low-E windows are not defective simply because they reflect sunlight. Reflecting solar energy is part of how these windows improve a home’s energy efficiency.<\/p>\n
The problem can occur when several conditions line up at once, including the angle of the sun, the orientation and curvature of the glass, the distance between neighboring homes, and the location of the exterior wall receiving the reflection.<\/p>\n
This is why one small section of siding may show significant heat damage while the rest of the home’s exterior looks perfectly normal.<\/p>\n
The best solution depends on where the reflection originates and how frequently it affects your home.<\/p>\n
Address the reflection at its source:<\/strong> If the reflection is coming from a neighboring window, solutions that diffuse or redirect the reflected sunlight may help. Because window films, screens, and other modifications can affect window performance or warranties, they should be evaluated carefully before installation.<\/p>\n Create shade or block the reflection:<\/strong> Depending on the property layout, landscaping or another appropriate shading solution may help interrupt the path of the reflected sunlight.<\/p>\n Evaluate the damaged siding:<\/strong> Localized damage may not necessarily require replacing an entire home’s siding. A professional can evaluate the affected area and determine whether individual sections can be repaired or replaced.<\/p>\n The important step is identifying and addressing the source of the excessive heat before repairing the siding. Otherwise, the same damage may occur again.<\/p>\n Is reflected sunlight actually causing the damage?<\/strong><\/p>\n Look for a concentrated area of reflected sunlight that moves across the wall during the day and corresponds with the damaged siding. A professional assessment can help determine whether reflection, installation, or another issue is responsible.<\/p>\n Should I repair the siding or address the reflection first?<\/strong><\/p>\n Whenever possible, determine the source of the excessive heat first. Replacing damaged siding without correcting the underlying condition may allow the problem to return.<\/p>\n Does siding material make a difference?<\/strong><\/p>\n Different exterior materials respond differently to prolonged or concentrated heat. If reflected sunlight is an ongoing concern around your home, discuss material performance with your siding professional before choosing a replacement product.<\/p>\n Who is responsible for the damage?<\/strong><\/p>\n Responsibility for property damage can depend on the circumstances, local requirements, and individual insurance policies. If damage involves a neighboring property, consider speaking with your insurance provider or another qualified professional before making assumptions about liability.<\/p>\n If you’re seeing unexplained warping or distortion in your vinyl siding, finding the cause should come before deciding how much needs to be replaced.<\/p>\n At D&W Windows and Sunrooms, we can evaluate the affected area, help determine what may be causing the damage, and discuss appropriate options for your home’s exterior. Sometimes the problem is limited to a small area. In other situations, a more extensive siding solution may make sense.<\/p>\n (800) 833-9831<\/a> or Click Here for Your Free Estimate<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Disclaimer: Our blog offers general information only; it isn’t an endorsement of specific actions. Please consult professionals and consider your situation before making decisions. D&W Windows is not responsible for any outcomes resulting from the advice provided.<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" You notice your vinyl siding suddenly bowing, rippling, or looking like it has been exposed to intense heat. Your first instinct might be to blame a grill, a manufacturing defect, or summer weather. But if the damage is concentrated on a wall facing a neighboring home, the source could be reflected sunlight from nearby windows. […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[7],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1330","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-siding"],"yoast_head":"\nQuestions to Answer Before Replacing Your Siding<\/h3>\n
Get a Professional Assessment Before Making Repairs<\/h3>\n