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Homeowners insurance may cover the cost of siding repair or replacement, but coverage depends on the cause of the damage. Most policies will cover damage from a covered event, such as a storm, wind, hail, fire, natural disaster, or other impact damage. Your policy might pay for the full or partial cost of the repair or replacement. However, damage resulting from age, general wear and tear, or neglect is typically not covered, and you should expect to pay for those repairs out of pocket. It is best to review your specific homeowners insurance policy for full details on what is covered, how to file a claim, and what documentation is required.

You should restain or refinish your home's cedar siding every three to seven years to maintain its appearance and ensure maximum protection. The precise frequency depends on several factors, including your local climate, the siding's exposure to severe weather like direct sunlight, rain, and wind, the quality of the initial stain application, the type of stain used, and the condition of the wood.

Homeowners in harsh climates with high humidity and significant direct sunlight should plan on restaining every three years, while those in milder locations can wait up to seven years. For the longest-lasting protection in particularly harsh environments, consider using an opaque stain.

If you're looking for a lower-maintenance alternative, vinyl or aluminum siding are options to consider. Although their installation cost may be higher, they don't require as much upkeep over time, which can provide more value, especially in areas with excessive rainfall or high humidity.

To calculate how much siding you need for exterior walls, first measure the height and width of the rectangular walls. For the triangular gable walls, measure the width and then the height from the ground to the tallest gable point.

• For the rectangular walls, the calculation is: length x height

• For the triangular gable walls, the calculation is: (length x height) / 2

Once you add these up, include an additional 10% to account for any wastage.

Mildew grows into porous wood, making it more difficult to remove than regular dirt (and more destructive). We suggest using a dedicated mildew and mold fungicide to remove mildew, which is found in any local home improvement store. Apply a dose of the fungicide to the siding and leave to work according to the instructions, usually for an hour or two. Then wash it thoroughly away and scrub the spot again. Repeat the process if necessary. If nothing is removing the mildew stains, you should plan on removing those clapboard planks in time, as their damage could cause future problems.