Symptoms
- Siding appears wavy, rippled, or shrunken in a localized area
- Melted or bubbled look to the surface
- Damage pattern lines up with a nearby window's reflection angle
Likely causes
- CommonReflected sunlight from a low-E energy-efficient windowCertain window coatings can concentrate reflected heat enough to distort vinyl siding at specific times of day and year.
- CommonGrill, fire pit, or other heat source placed too closeDirect radiant heat from grills or fire features can warp siding nearby.
- PossibleDirect flame or extreme heat exposureA close fire source can cause more severe melting than reflected sun.
What to do
- Note the time of day and season the distortion seems to worsen, and check for a nearby window at a matching angle.
- If a window reflection is the cause, consider window film, an awning, or landscaping to diffuse the reflection.
- Move grills, fire pits, or other heat sources several feet further from the siding.
- Replace already-damaged panels, since warped vinyl won't reshape itself back to normal.
- Check with the window manufacturer or installer, since reflective melting from windows is a known issue some warranties address.
- Consider a heat-resistant or fiber-cement siding option for the affected area if the reflection issue can't be eliminated.
- Monitor the repaired area through a full sun cycle to confirm the fix worked.
Tools and parts
- Vinyl siding zip tool
Replacement vinyl siding panelSearch: “vinyl siding panel replacement”
When to call a pro
Call a siding contractor or the window manufacturer to address a reflective melting issue causing repeat damage.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.