When considering what type of exterior cladding and trim you would like on your home, one of the first materials that comes to mind for many people is vinyl siding, and this is with good reason. vinyl siding offers a wealth of advantages, and is currently the number one consumer choice for home exteriors in both Canada and the United States. Homeowners who might first consider vinyl siding for its durability and economy, often end up pleasantly surprised by the many beautiful options that are available in vinyl siding today.
vinyl siding is made up primarily of PVC (polyvinyl chloride), which is the material that gives vinyl its durability and strength. The chemical makeup of vinyl siding offers many advantages over wood or other outdoor trim materials. PVC does not rot, show scratches or retain moisture. In fact, it is so strong that it can withstand hurricane force winds of up to 110 miles per hour. Another important characteristic of vinyl siding is that it is both termite and rot proof, making it an ideal choice in a wide variety of climates. With a small amount of routine maintenance, you can expect new vinyl siding to last for the foreseeable life of your home.
Not only is vinyl siding economical and durable, but in its modern incarnation it is available in a terrific variety of colors and textures. Currently, siding manufacturers offer more than 400 different colors of vinyl siding. Many companies also produce siding in textures designed to mimic different historical periods or styles. One type of these specialty siding that is enjoying great popularity right now is the ‘cedar shake’ board. Cedar shake siding panels mimic the look of a New England cottage-style exterior. Several vinyl siding companies are also offering a ‘fish scale’ siding that resembles the curved wooden trim frequently seen on Victorian era homes. Although using these types of specialty boards over the whole of a house can get expensive, a similar look can be achieved more economically by using specialty siding only as accents or trim, strategically placed throughout the exterior.
When choosing what type of vinyl siding to get, you should consider your personal finances and preferences, with an eye towards purchasing the best quality that your budget will allow. vinyl siding comes in a range of thicknesses, from .35 ml to .50. Most experts recommend staying away from vinyl thinner less than .40 mil., the thickness most commonly used in residential and commercial building. Thinner panels have been known to excessively buckle due to expansion that occurs with hot weather. While thicker panels cost a little more, they provide more insulation for your home, which can ultimately help save you money on your energy bill.
Although vinyl siding is more economical than wood siding, as with most purchases, you’ll find that you ‘get what you pay for.’ In fact, having vinyl siding professionally installed is absolutely necessary, and well worth the monetary investment. Vinyl expands in warm weather and contracts when it is cold and for this reason vinyl siding that is improperly installed can buckle and sag.
To be sure that your vinyl siding installer is qualified, ask for references and to see examples of previous work. Most construction warranties only last for one year, but the majority of problems will become obvious during that time. Seeing work that was done by a prospective contractor more than a year ago is one of the best ways to assess installation quality.
Also, ask to see your installer’s credentials before signing a contract or beginning work. The installer should offer a workmanship warranty of at least one year, and should carry, and have proof of, liability insurance. Ask your installer if he or she is certified by an outside organization, such as the vinyl siding Institute (VSI). Certification from VSI requires that the installer participate in ongoing assessments/testing and participate in continuing education programs.
One last tip; know exactly who it is that will be installing your siding. Beware of contractors who subcontract jobs out. You may be satisfied with your contractor’s performance, but if he is using a subcontractor for vinyl installation, you cannot be assured of the quality of the installation. Additionally, if something goes wrong with the siding or a problem is discovered later, it will be a lot more difficult to sort out and there could be little recourse for your pain.
vinyl siding offers many benefits for homeowners from economical and durable to lasting good looks. With very little maintenance on your part, your vinyl siding can keep on looking great for the life of your home.
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