Woodpecker on sidingHere in the Minneapolis area we're fortunate to have all kinds of beautiful birds. But some of those birds can be more annoying that others.  The woodpecker is a prime example. And it's because of more than just that incessant tap-tap-tap that can wake you at dawn.  They can actually damage siding.  Any wood-based siding material can be affected.  Woodpeckers are more likely to peck at homes with more porous surfaces because it provides them with a pulpy way to dig in and get at possible insects to feast on. Why Do Woodpeckers Make Holes in Siding? There are a number of reasons why woodpeckers peck holes in the siding of a home. Some types of siding are more susceptible to this type of damage than others. Wood, cedar clapboard and cedar shake siding are some of the more popular choices, though if it looks like wood, they might still come over and try. That means they might attack things like engineered wood (LP SmartSide) or even wood-look vinyl siding.
  • Woodpeckers may peck siding to claim their territory in the area or to attract a mate to them.
  • They might also be trying to create a nest for themselves or their mate.
  • They might be looking for insects to feed on that might be hiding in the siding. If there are insects hiding there, you might want to consider hiring an exterminator to help with this.
If you’re having issues with woodpeckers damaging your siding, perhaps it's time to consider a new siding material instead of a decoy that might not even work. Metal siding is actually a choice that a woodpecker is less likely to damage.  It's difficult for them to get a grasp to even perch, and those sharp little beaks can't puncture the siding. 

If woodpeckers are a problem in your neighborhood, we'd love to talk with you about how having our seamless steel siding installed can take care of that problem for good.  We are a licensed Minnesota home improvement contractor specializing in exterior home improvement services, and installation of metal siding is something we do in the greater Minneapolis metro area.  Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation in your home.