How Summer Heat Affects Different Types of Siding
As summer temperatures begin to soar in Regina, Saskatchewan, homeowners begin to notice how much the heat can affect the exterior of their homes. Prolonged sun exposure, high humidity, and sudden temperature fluctuations can take a toll on various types of siding, impacting their durability, appearance, and performance. Cracking, warping, fading, and even energy inefficiency can all result from hot weather if your siding isn't properly chosen or maintained. At United Exteriors, we understand the unique challenges posed by Saskatchewan's climate, where cold winters meet scorching summers—and we're here to help you protect your home year-round. In this blog, we'll explore how summer heat affects different types of siding and what you can do to maintain your exterior's strength and beauty. Read on to learn more!
Vinyl Siding: Prone to Warping and Fading
Vinyl siding is one of the most popular choices among homeowners, thanks to its affordability and low maintenance. However, vinyl can expand significantly when Regina's summer heat climbs into the high 20s and 30s. If not accounted for during installation, this expansion may lead to warping, buckling, or distortion—especially around fasteners and seams. Additionally, prolonged UV exposure causes gradual colour fading, leaving your siding looking uneven or washed out. Opting for high-quality, UV-resistant vinyl siding and ensuring expert installation with proper allowances for movement can significantly reduce these effects and help your siding retain its curb appeal for years.
Aluminum Siding: Heat Conductivity and Colour Changes
Aluminum siding is well-regarded for its moisture resistance and fire safety, but it faces its own challenges in the heat of summer. Because aluminum conducts heat so readily, it can increase the temperature inside your walls if not properly insulated, adding to cooling costs during peak summer months. On the exterior, colour fading is a common issue under relentless sun exposure, with surfaces gradually taking on a chalky, oxidized appearance. Over time, this can dull the clean, modern look aluminum is known for. Homeowners should schedule regular cleanings and protective coatings to preserve the finish and ensure that their aluminum siding stays both functional and attractive during the hottest months.
Wood Siding: Risk of Drying and Cracking
Wood siding offers timeless character and natural warmth but requires diligent upkeep—particularly during hot, dry summers. Excessive heat and constant sunlight cause wood to dry out, which often results in cracking, warping, and splitting. The summer sun can also degrade protective paint or stain, stripping away the barrier that shields the wood from moisture and UV damage. Once exposed, the wood becomes vulnerable to further deterioration and pests. Regular sealing, staining, and professional inspections are key to keeping wood siding strong and beautiful throughout both summer and winter extremes in Regina.
Composite Siding: Built to Withstand the Elements
Composite siding, made from a blend of engineered wood fibres, resins, and polymers, is designed to offer superior resistance to heat and weathering. It is less prone to warping or cracking compared to natural wood, but minor thermal expansion can still occur in extreme temperatures. In addition, long-term exposure to UV rays can cause surface fading if lower-grade products are used or if the siding is not maintained. To get the best performance and value from composite siding, it's important to invest in high-quality materials and rely on professional installation—a specialty of the team at United Exteriors—to ensure proper ventilation and expansion gaps.
Fibre Cement Siding: Outstanding Heat Durability
Fibre cement siding, such as trusted James Hardie products, stands out as one of the most heat-resistant and durable siding materials available. Made from a composite of cement, sand, and cellulose fibres, it remains dimensionally stable even under extreme heat. Unlike vinyl or wood, fibre cement siding does not warp, crack, or melt, and its factory-applied UV-resistant finishes help maintain vibrant colours for many years. Its minimal maintenance requirements and exceptional ability to handle both scorching summers and freezing winters make it a top choice for homes in Regina's variable climate. Fibre cement is hard to beat for homeowners seeking a siding that offers long-term beauty and protection.
How United Exteriors Can Help Protect Your Siding
At United Exteriors, we are experts in helping homeowners in Regina and the surrounding areas choose, install, and maintain siding that can withstand the full range of Saskatchewan's extreme weather. Whether your siding has suffered from summer heat or you're looking to upgrade for better durability and energy efficiency, our experienced team provides top-quality siding repairs, replacements, and installations. We work with premium materials and proven installation techniques to ensure your siding performs beautifully through every season. Contact United Exteriors today to schedule a consultation and protect your home's exterior with professional solutions designed for our climate.