Vinyl siding is one of the most common types of siding used in Wisconsin. If you are considering replacing your siding, you will likely come across vinyl siding. But what is it? As a homeowner, you know a siding replacement is an expensive project, and therefore, you should be fully aware of the material you choose to install.
This is what we will do in this blog post. Today, we cover all the ins and outs of vinyl home siding, including its pros, cons, cost, and much more. So let’s get started.
Pros Of Vinyl Siding
Vinyl Is A Cost-Effective Material
One factor that will likely influence your choice of a siding material is the cost of the replacement project. As a homeowner, you want the best durability at an affordable cost, and with vinyl, this is possible.
Let’s face it, home improvement projects can get expensive fast. Vinyl siding is appealing because it’s one of the most cost-effective options out there. Not only is the material itself relatively inexpensive, but the installation costs are usually lower too. It’s a win-win if you’re trying to stick to a budget without sacrificing quality.
Vinyl Siding Is Low-Maintenance
One of the biggest selling points of vinyl siding is that it’s incredibly low maintenance. Unlike wood, which needs regular painting or staining, vinyl siding is designed to last without a lot of upkeep. A simple wash with a garden hose now and then is usually enough to keep it looking brand new. What this means is that you don’t have to spend your weekends or other free time taking care of the siding. Plus, it doesn’t rot, warp, or get eaten by pests.
However, you should not completely neglect your home siding. You will still need to inspect it regularly and ensure it’s free from issues.
It Offers Good Durability And Versatility
Vinyl siding is designed to stand strong in the face of harsh weather conditions. Whether it’s a relentless downpour or heavy snowstorm, both of which are common in Wisconsin, vinyl siding is built to endure it all. Its resilience against moisture means you won’t have to worry about rust, rot, or corrosion over time—a significant advantage for homes in climates where humidity and precipitation are constant concerns.
It’s worth noting that extreme cold can pose a challenge. In frigid temperatures, vinyl siding may become more brittle, increasing the risk of cracking.
You Get a Variety Of Vinyl Siding Color Options
When it comes to your home’s exterior, the color and style of your siding play a crucial role in defining its overall curb appeal. Gone are the days when vinyl siding came in just a few bland shapes. Today, you can find a wide range of vinyl siding colors.
You also get various styles and textures, allowing you to customize the look of your home to match your personal taste. Whether you prefer a classic clapboard look, a more modern design, or something that mimics the appearance of wood, vinyl siding has you covered. With so many options available, it’s easier than ever to create a unique and attractive exterior that truly reflects your style.
Also Read: 10 Popular LP SmartSide® Siding Colors of 2024
Insulated Vinyl Panels Can Increase Energy Efficiency
Many modern vinyl siding options come with an added layer of insulation, which can help improve your home’s energy efficiency. This can lead to lower heating and cooling costs over time, which is always a nice bonus. By keeping your home better insulated, vinyl siding can also contribute to a more comfortable living environment year-round.
Cons Of Vinyl Siding
Now to the not-so-good part. As you can see from the section above, there is a lot to praise when it comes to vinyl siding. However, there are some issues that you can face with this type of siding too. Here are some limitations that you should consider before moving ahead with your project:
Aesthetic Limitations
While vinyl siding has come a long way in terms of style options, it can still fall short if you’re looking for a truly premium look. For example, while there are vinyl options that mimic wood (such as the cedar shake vinyl siding), they may not have the same authentic appearance or texture as the real thing. If curb appeal and high-end aesthetics are at the top of your list, vinyl might not meet your expectations.
Potential for Fading and Cracking
Over time, vinyl siding can fade, especially if your home gets a lot of direct sunlight. Darker colors are particularly prone to fading. In extreme temperatures, vinyl can also become brittle and crack, which could lead to the need for repairs or replacement panels down the line. While this isn’t a deal-breaker for everyone, it’s something to keep in mind, especially if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions.
Environmental Concerns
Vinyl siding isn’t the most eco-friendly option available. It’s made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride), a type of plastic that doesn’t decompose easily and can release toxic chemicals during manufacturing and disposal. If you’re looking to make more environmentally conscious choices for your home, you might want to explore other siding materials that have a smaller environmental footprint.
Lack of Insulation
Basic vinyl siding doesn’t provide much insulation. If your home is older or not well-insulated, you might find that vinyl siding alone isn’t enough to keep your home as energy-efficient as you’d like. In such cases, additional insulation may be needed, which could increase your costs. However, as mentioned above, insulated vinyl siding is now available, which is thicker and more resistant.
Best Vinyl Siding Brands
Now that you’re familiar with the pros and cons of vinyl siding, it’s time to dive into the brands that offer the best quality, durability, and style.
Choosing the right brand is crucial because it can significantly impact the longevity and appearance of your home’s exterior. With so many options on the market, selecting a reputable brand ensures you get the most value for your investment.
- CertainTeed
- Mastic (by Ply Gem)
- Alside
- Westlake Royal Building Products
- Georgia-Pacific
Vinyl Siding FAQ’s Answered
As a roofing and siding company, we receive many questions from homeowners who want to install vinyl siding and want to know what it can offer. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve gathered some of the most common questions and provided clear, straightforward answers.
How Long Does Vinyl Siding Last?
Vinyl siding is known for its impressive longevity, often lasting between 20 to 40 years, depending on the quality of the material and the conditions it’s exposed to. High-quality vinyl siding can withstand the elements, including harsh sunlight, rain, and wind, without deteriorating quickly. Proper installation and regular maintenance, such as occasional cleaning and inspections, can further extend its lifespan.
To know more about its lifespan and what affects it, read our blog post: How Long Does Vinyl Siding Last?
Can You Paint Vinyl Siding?
One of the most common questions about vinyl siding is whether you can paint or repaint the siding panels. Vinyl siding panels usually don’t need to be painted. Unlike other siding options, which are painted after manufacturing, color is added to PVC (vinyl) at the time of manufacturing.
However, as the years pass and homeowners look to improve their home exterior, many consider repainting their vinyl siding instead of replacing it. But this is generally not recommended.
Painting your vinyl siding is not impossible and is less expensive than full replacement, but it’s not advisable due to certain implications. Painting vinyl siding can void the manufacturer’s warranty and cause more damage. Also, it will increase the maintenance requirements as you often need to repaint again to maintain its appearance.
How Much Does Vinyl Siding Replacement Cost?
The cost of vinyl siding can vary depending on several factors, including the quality of the material, the size of your home, and the complexity of the installation. On average, you can expect to pay between $3 to $10 per square foot for vinyl siding, including both materials and labor. For a typical home, this means the total cost could range from $6,000 to $15,000.
Is Vinyl Siding Worth It?
Now that we have discussed the benefits, limitations, and lifespan, let’s come to the bottom line: is it worth it to install a new vinyl siding? The answer is yes!
Vinyl siding has everything you need from a siding material: it’s durable, low-maintenance, available in a wide variety of color options, and well-suited to Wisconsin’s weather conditions. We recommend working with top contractors for your siding installation project to ensure quality and a secure fit.
Are there other options? Yes. Materials like wood, fiber cement, or even brick can offer some of the benefits vinyl lacks, albeit at a higher cost. You can read all about them here.
Start Your Siding Project With Prestige Roofing LLC
Ready to transform your home’s exterior with top-quality vinyl siding? Get your siding project started with Prestige Roofing LLC. Our expert team is here to guide you through every step, from selecting the best materials to ensuring top-notch installation. Contact us today at (920) 791-0414 for a free consultation.