While many consider wood to be the classic gold standard of siding, it comes with a lot of maintenance and a much higher replacement cost. When these factors are taken into consideration, vinyl siding becomes a much more attractive option, especially considering the advances that have been made since vinyl siding was introduced back in the 1950s as a replacement for aluminum siding. Today’s vinyl siding won’t crack, fade or sag like its predecessors did.
What is Vinyl Siding Made of?
Vinyl siding is made from extruded PVC, a durable lightweight plastic made from chlorine and ethylene gas. When the two chemicals combine, they create a powder called vinyl resin which is then melted, and mixed with additives. It won’t rot or corrode, and it resists water. Current formulations are also UV-resistant, so there’s no need to worry about the siding becoming brittle after extended exposure to sunlight like earlier formulations.
Benefits of Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding doesn’t need to be painted or stained, and comes in a wide variety of colors and designs. There are even siding options that mimic old-fashioned shakes and shingles. In fact, the only real maintenance you need to do on your vinyl siding is regularly washing it to keep it looking clean. On the other hand, wood siding needs regular maintenance in the form of repainting and restaining. You either have to hire a professional, or do it yourself.
Vinyl siding is also much less expensive than wood siding. When you consider both the difference in the cost of the materials themselves, and the difference in labor costs, it is more than twice as expensive to install wood siding as it is to install mid-grade vinyl siding. Even high-grade vinyl siding, which would have a price point more on target with wood siding would ultimately be more cost friendly because vinyl siding is less expensive to install since the process is faster and easier, since there is less trim and paint to finish the job.
Vinyl Siding Over Existing Wood Siding
If you’re thinking about moving from wood to vinyl siding, one thing you’ll have to consider is whether you’ll be removing your existing wood siding or not. It’s definitely possible to install new vinyl siding over existing wood siding (but not metal or existing vinyl siding), but only if your current siding is in good condition, with no rot or mold present. Some other conditions that may require solutions include if the current wood siding is beveled, or if there is no moisture barrier beneath the current wood siding. Windows and door frames may need to be adjusted afterward to accommodate the new thickness of the walls.
Today’s vinyl siding is considerably different from when the product was first introduced to consumers more than a half century ago. There have been advances in technology and design, not to mention in aesthetics. Vinyl siding is now an attractive, affordable, durable design choice for many homes, regardless of style or price point. Residing your home with new vinyl siding is a fantastic way to bring instant curb appeal to your home, and even help you save money in the long run by lowering your energy costs. Installing new vinyl siding is a smart and attractive choice for increasing your house’s value and your enjoyment of your home.
Contact us today to schedule your wood shingle to vinyl siding transformation!
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