If you are building a new home or considering some updates to your current home’s exterior, you should take a close look at what vinyl siding has to offer. vinyl siding, which was first introduced in the late 1950’s, is currently the number one choice in exterior finish in the U.S., and with good reason. A few of its advantages include durability, good looks and easy maintenance. The majority of builders today are using vinyl siding for residences from starter ranches all the way to high-end custom homes. To learn more about vinyl siding and why it has become such a popular choice for builders and consumers, read on.
vinyl siding differs from most choices in exterior cladding in that it is entirely man-made. The primary component of vinyl siding is PVC, polyvinyl chloride, which is made up of chlorine (which comes from common salt), and ethylene (extracted from natural gas). PVC is what makes vinyl siding so versatile yet strong and is resistant to cold, heat, moisture, and even pests such as termites. Unlike wood and most other types of outdoor trim, vinyl siding is easy to maintain and is likely to last the life of your home without ever being replaced.
Consumers agree ease of maintenance and durability are two of their primary reasons for choosing vinyl. Unlike wood, vinyl siding does not need painting, and is not subject to peeling, flaking or rotting. vinyl siding is also substantially stronger than other types of exterior cladding and is able to withstand winds of up to 100 miles per hour.
When vinyl siding was first developed and up into the 70’s, the choices of colors and textures were limited to a few bland neutrals. Today, vinyl siding companies produce more than four hundred different colors; everything from natural, earthy hues to deep jewels and the purest of bright tones. You are not limited to simply choosing a color, as there are also a wide variety of textures and specialty trims available. vinyl siding that mimics the look of other materials is also widely available.
For example, ‘cedar shake’ siding is extremely popular right now. This type of textured vinyl gives the appearance of cedar shingles, such as those seen on New England summer homes. Another current trend is the use of ‘fish scale’ siding, which is textured and curved to resemble the wooden trim used in Victorian-era residences. In fact, some vinyl siding manufacturers specialize in creating products specifically for historical preservation projects.
vinyl siding is more than just attractive and durable, it is also economical. Good quality vinyl siding costs substantially less than its wood, brick or stone counterparts. The fact is that vinyl siding lasts longer than any other type of exterior trim and adds value to your home. In most cases, it will not need to be replaced for the life of the home, only maintained. Because vinyl resists pest infestations, moisture and rot, it remains attractive throughout its lifespan and requires little in the way of maintenance. To keep vinyl siding looking its best all that is required is a regular wash with a garden hose and occasional power washing. Contrast this with wooden siding that needs to be entirely repainted every few years. One thing that homeowners should be aware of is that it may be necessary to re-caulk spaces between vinyl siding and other types of trim or materials on the house. If these areas are left open, moisture can accumulate resulting in water damage and dangerous mold.
vinyl siding must be properly installed to look its best. For this reason, experts recommend having your siding installed by a professional. Vinyl expands with heat and contracts with cold, shoddy installation can result in buckling and sagging. This is not only unsightly, but leaves open gaps that mold and mildew can grow in. Look for a siding installer who is certified by an organization such as the VSI (vinyl siding Institute), and be sure to check references. The best way to assess the quality of a company’s installation is to ask to see a house that they have completed projects on. Keep an eye out for any signs that the siding does not ‘fit’ properly such as edges that stick out, buckling, or sagging, or the work appears uneven. These are all signs of a poor installation job. Before you settle on a service provider, it is also a good idea to call your local Better Business Bureau (BBB) and find out if there have been any complaints registered. Finding a vinyl siding installer who is qualified and can answer all your questions about vinyl siding does take some time, but is well worth it for the end result.
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