Vinyl siding is a popular, easy to obtain, inexpensive, and low maintenance option for any home. All these strong features point to vinyl siding as being the right cladding for virtually any home. Or, is it? Vinyl siding may break, it cannot be painted, and it may reduce your home’s resale value. Before you decide if vinyl siding is right for your home, it is a good idea to learn about its pros and cons.
The Pros of Vinyl Siding
There are several benefits of vinyl siding, which include:
No Need to Paint
Almost all siding materials, besides vinyl, is colored with a layer of color. It is unique because the color is baked in. The color is 100% homogeneous, which means the color runs all the way through it. It means the color will not be stripped, scratched off, or mechanically abraded. Vinyl siding never has to be painted.
It Is Affordable
There are few siding materials that are as affordable as vinyl. For example, fiber-cement siding may cost two to four times as much as vinyl. Vinyl will always be your most affordable option, in most cases.
It Is Low Maintenance
The slick surface of vinyl siding means that cobwebs, dust, and other debris will slide off easily when it is sprayed down with a garden hose. Since there is no paint to peel, you never have to scrape, patch, prime, or paint the exterior of your home.
The Cons of Vinyl Siding
While there are several benefits of choosing vinyl siding, there are also some disadvantages to be aware of. These include:
Installation Can Be Tricky
After buying vinyl siding, you have the option to install it on your own. However, it is often best to hire a contractor. Because the effectiveness of siding is dependent on proper installation, if the job is not done properly, issues can arise. For example, if it is nailed too tightly, the siding may warp, bulge, crack, or expand.
Cause Other Maintenance Problems
High-quality siding may last for two to three decades. However, with extreme weather and temperatures, it may begin to show its age after 10 or 15 years. Also, vinyl siding, especially darker siding, can begin to fade when it is sunny out. Painting is not a good option to revive the color, because it can crack or peel as time passes. Pressure washing may also be problematic because water can come into the house through the crevices and cracks in the siding.
It Could Reduce Your Home’s Value
While vinyl siding may be an affordable option, it can also lower your home’s value. For example, if you have a historic home. Be sure to consider this carefully.
Contact Energy Pro
If you are interested in vinyl siding, but unsure if it is the best option for your home, contact Energy Pro for help. We can provide more pros and cons about vinyl siding option and if it is a smart one for your home and your needs.
