Vines Growing Under Siding

Vines offer lush foliage for privacy when trained to grow on a fence or trellis but they prove problematic when they escape cultivation.

Vines growing under siding.

It turns woodlands into impenetrable thickets. Many vines are aggressive. If you think pulling the vines off your structure will do more harm than good first kill them by cutting them to 4 to 6 inches above the ground. Here vines hold moisture against the wall promoting siding deterioration and they can even work their way through gaps in the window trim and grow into the home.

Vines growing on wood siding or stucco structures may cause damage. This reduces heating efficiency and can create a possible health problem when mold or dirt begin to build up under the siding. However certain vines can damage building materials and necessary elements of homes. The damage they cause can be that of getting under the clapboards and pulling them away.

Unfortunately these vines are not harmless on a house with stucco or wood vinyl or fiber cement siding. Climbing vines are more likely to cause issues on wood siding and in damp climates. Also because the vines grow directly on the surface of these structures they reduce air flow resulting in moisture retention that can harm stucco surfaces and cause wood decay. Rats can also climb up the siding and create nests anywhere on the building.

This fast growing twining vine spreads by berries eaten by birds and by suckers. Examine what the vines are growing on before you start. Damage from growing vines on siding or shingles. They can creep between masonry and stone joints under vinyl siding and into the mortar between bricks.

Vines can dig under siding and through wood causing cracks and holes in the exterior of the house. Plants like boston ivy suction onto surfaces with adhesive pads allowing them to go up and under the wood. Furthermore i like the idea of a literal green building shrouded in greenery including climbing vines. Considering the slim side setbacks three story height and close proximity to large trees it will be difficult to reach the siding for any maintenance.

From plants first sold as ornamentals by east coast nurseries japanese honeysuckle can now be found growing wild in 3 4 of the u s. I am designing a home for a narrow lot in portland oregon. If you ve considered having vines growing on siding continue reading to learn about possible damage vines can do and what you can do to prevent it.