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Most homeowners think of siding as cosmetic, something that makes the house look clean and finished. But can they be a reason pests are invading your home?
The truth is, siding is not just cosmetic; it is protective. They serve as a barrier protecting your home from pests, water damage, and even energy loss. When your siding starts to fail, small gaps and weak spots can silently invite pests like raccoons, squirrels, and mice inside. Once they’re in, they can damage insulation, wiring, and even your roof structure.
At Hoel Roofing, we don’t just handle roofs; we’re also a trusted siding contractor in Indiana. Our team has inspected countless homes where minor siding problems turned into big pest issues.
In this article, you’ll learn which types of siding are most vulnerable, the warning signs to watch for, and how regular siding services can protect your home.
Not all siding materials offer the same level of protection against pests. Here’s a detailed examination of various siding types and their vulnerabilities:
Vulnerability Level: High
Wood siding is the most susceptible to pest infestation. Various pests, including raccoons, squirrels, termites, and carpenter ants, can easily gnaw through wood. The risk escalates if the wood is rotting, damaged, or untreated, as these conditions provide an inviting environment for pests. Regular maintenance, including inspections for water damage and applying protective coatings, is crucial to mitigate the risk.
Vulnerability Level: Moderate
Made primarily from wood fibers and other materials, LP or composite siding offers slightly better resistance than traditional wood siding. This is because composite siding is made of wood fibers mixed with resins, waxes, and binding agents. This makes it denser and more uniform than raw wood, which can have natural weak spots. The resins, protective coatings, and composite siding absorb less water than plain wood.
That means it’s less likely to rot or soften—two conditions that make it easy for pests to chew through. Even with these improvements, pests can still exploit weaker spots or areas that have deteriorated over time. It’s important to monitor for signs of wear and to promptly address any damage to reduce the likelihood of pest entry.
Vulnerability Level: Low
Vinyl siding is one of the most pest-resistant options available. Pests are generally reluctant to chew through vinyl due to its tough synthetic composition. However, if there are gaps, cracks, or loose panels, these can provide entry points for pests. Regular inspections and repairs are essential to maintain a tight seal and prevent pest intrusion.
Vulnerability Level: Very Low
Fiber cement siding, often referred to by the brand name Hardie, is considered the strongest barrier against pests. Its composition makes it nearly impervious to chewing by insects and rodents. Despite its strength, proper sealing around joints, windows, and doors is necessary to ensure that it performs optimally. Regular inspections and timely maintenance are key to preserving its effectiveness.
By understanding the type of siding on your home, you can better assess both your risk of pest invasion and your priorities for ongoing maintenance.
Pests are smart and strategic. Even the strongest siding can fail if vulnerable areas aren’t maintained:
Raccoons and squirrels often chew through here to access attics. Thin or rotted soffit boards can be chewed through quickly, giving pests a direct path into your attic. Once inside, they can nest in insulation, chew wiring, or spread droppings.
Old, cracked caulking and small gaps around frames are open invitations for rodents and insects. Mice only need a hole the size of a dime to squeeze through. These holes, when left unsealed, allow the gaps to expand over time with water intrusion, making the entry point even larger.
Loose or warped trim creates just enough space for squirrels or bats to slip in. These corners often go unnoticed from the ground, which is why regular siding inspections are critical.
Rodents like mice and rats often sneak in at the base of your siding, especially if bushes or landscaping hide the area. Any small gap where the siding meets the foundation can serve as a tunnel into your crawlspace or basement.
One of the first and most visible signs of pest activity is damage to the exterior of your home. Specifically, small to medium-sized holes indicate that pests, such as rodents or insects, are attempting to enter. On the other hand, jagged or irregular edges often signal that the damage is recent and caused by gnawing or burrowing activity.
Locations to inspect are near rooflines, soffits, or the foundation, as these are common entry points for pests. Even tiny gaps can provide access to walls or attics, making a thorough inspection crucial.
If you hear scratching, scurrying, or thumping noises emanating from your attic or inside the walls, this is a strong indication that pests have gained entry. These sounds often signify the movement of animals, which may include rodents or larger wildlife. Taking note of when and where you hear these sounds can help in identifying the type of infestation.
Finding signs of droppings is a clear warning that animals have infiltrated your home. Raccoon or rodent droppings can vary in size and appearance, so familiarize yourself with what they look like. It’s also important to look for tracks along windowsills, siding, or near entry points. These may lead you to nesting areas or food sources. Shredded insulation, fabric, or leaves can indicate a nesting site.
Seasonal patterns are worth noting, as activity typically increases during spring and fall when animals are actively seeking shelter.
Improper maintenance of siding or the presence of gaps can allow moisture to infiltrate, creating ideal conditions for pests. This infiltration of moisture can lead to mold or mildew growth, which can serve as both a food source and a nest site for various pests. Additionally, the presence of moisture accelerates wood rot, making siding softer and easier for pests to chew through.
Even well-constructed siding can fail if joints are not properly sealed. Ensure that caulking is intact around windows, doors, and vents.
Ventilation Gaps are small openings that can be enough for mice or insects to slip through, so thorough sealing is essential for pest prevention.
Wood siding that has been exposed to moisture without proper protective coatings becomes increasingly vulnerable. This rot not only weakens the structural integrity of the siding but also promotes fungal growth, making it easier for pests to cause further damage.
Bushes, trees, or other vegetation that are in proximity to the siding can create a natural pathway for pests. Overgrown vegetation provides cover and allows climbing animals access to eaves and vents, so it’s important to maintain a clear perimeter around your home.
Ignoring pest damage can lead to:
The earlier you catch issues, the simpler and less expensive the solution.
Even careful inspections may miss hidden pests or structural damage. Call a professional if you notice:
A trained expert can identify the source of the problem, repair damage, and help prevent future infestations. We’d love to help you protect your home in good time before it causes even more damage and accrues more damage. If you’re concerned about your siding or suspect pest activity? Schedule a siding inspection with Hoel Roofing today to secure your home before small issues become big problems.
Toyosi Ogunsola is the Content Manager at Hoel Roofing & Remodeling in Rushville, IN, where she oversees the creation of educational, trustworthy content about roofing, remodeling, and home improvement. With a master’s degree in Emerging Media Design and Development and a background spanning content strategy, UX research, and digital marketing, Toyosi combines data-driven insights with clear, engaging writing to help homeowners make informed decisions. Passionate about translating complex roofing topics into helpful resources, she works closely with Hoel’s team of roofing experts to ensure every piece of content is accurate, practical, and user-focused.
