After its introduction in the 1950s, vinyl siding had a rocky start. Vinyl replaced the aluminum siding on houses but it often cracked, sagged, and faded.
The vinyl used today left its predecessor behind. In addition, the benefits of vinyl siding make it a top performer.
Below are a few of the advantages homeowners enjoy after installing vinyl siding on their home.
1. Low Cost
Vinyl siding is affordable and easy to install.
To install vinyl siding on a 1,600-foot house, it’ll cost between $4,800 and $5,600 or $3.30 per square foot. Higher quality siding costs between $10,200 and $11,100 or $6.70 per square foot on the same size house.
The cost varies depending on the quality, size of the home, the shape of the home, and if the old siding is being removed. It’s cheaper than other options such as stone, which can cost $125,000 to install.
2. Durable
Made out of PVC plastic resin, vinyl siding is resistant to denting, warping, chipping, rust, electricity, insect damage, and rot. It protects your house against the sun, wind, rain, and hail damage too.
Vinyl siding is a durable, man-made material. According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, vinyl siding lasts up to 60 years with proper home maintenance.
3. Low Maintenance
If vinyl is properly installed, maintenance is simple. The most common repairs on vinyl siding are:
- Cracks: Cracks usually happen while trying to work with vinyl in low temperatures. Try to avoid working with vinyl in the middle of winter.
- Holes: Punctures in vinyl siding aren’t impossible and do sometimes happen. Large holes usually need the entire panel to be replaced but smaller holes may be patched with a small, cut out piece of siding.
Besides damage repair, the only other maintenance is cleaning once a year. Exposure to the elements means your siding accumulates dirt, mold, and mildew that needs to be washed away.
Check your warranty for special care instructions.
4. Energy Efficient
Expect to see lower energy bills with insulated vinyl siding. It keeps your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Having your siding insulated is more expensive but you’ll see a quick return on your investment by keeping your utility bills under control.
Insulated vinyl has rigid foam insulation laminated or attached to the panels and reduces energy loss through the studs of your home.
5. Curb Appeal
Vinyl has a variety of colors and textures and because it won’t chip, peel, flake, or scratch, it’s is an attractive option up close and at a distance.
If you love the look of wood but it’s too costly, vinyl easily mimics the look of real wood paneling. Choose any color and design to go with the aesthetic of your home.
Additional Benefits of Vinyl Siding
These were some of the top benefits of vinyl siding but there are many additional benefits to homeowners.
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