Making the Case for Vinyl Siding

Advancing technologies and consumer demand have contributed to making vinyl siding one of the most popular exterior choices for new home builds and remodels. That has not always been the case. And, some misperceptions about vinyl siding continue to persist.

When Aluminum Siding was King

When the greatest generation came back from the war, Uncle Sam showed GI’s some appreciation with government backed mortgages that boosted the domestic economy and helped launch a housing boom. The ensuing demand of growing families helped birth hundreds of new communities across the US, as cities grew past their boundaries and suburbs were born

One of the most widely used residential building materials in the 1950’s was aluminum siding. At that time, neighborhoods were being built at a furious pace and it was a cost effective way to keep up with demand. Sure, aluminum siding faded and was subject to dents and dings – but, at the time, it was affordable, clean and a lower maintenance alternative to wood siding.

In the ensuing years, vinyl siding increased in popularity surpassing aluminum. But, just as aluminum had its detractors years ago, some of the perceived negatives of vinyl still exist.

The Popularity of Vinyl

Vinyl was not commercially available until the 1950’s and was created as a replacement for aluminum. In the laboratory, it starts as a fine white powder called vinyl resin. It’s melted and mixed with different additives to form materials that can be as rigid as plumbers piping and as pliable as a shower curtain. For residential building, it became quite commonplace for exterior siding and flooring materials.

One old argument against vinyl is that it cracks, fades and sags to the point where it makes homes look trashy. While this could have been true in the early days of vinyl, advances in technology have improved materials dramatically. Those old opinions are false.

Today vinyl siding is valued for being durable, colorfast and long-lasting.

7 Signs that you need new siding

See if any of these apply to you. You might need to replace your current siding.

Are there cracks and gaps ?
Is there excessive weathering or even rot?
Are you overloaded with exterior maintenance?
Do you detect drafts and/or rising energy costs?
Are there signs of hidden hazards – like warping or sagging?
Do you detect moisture and mold, inside and out?
Would you like to boost the resale value of your home?

Vinyl means no painting. No staining. And, a nearly endless number of color options. About the only piece of on-going maintenance needed is to wash your vinyl siding regularly; keep an eye out for mildew. Mildew and staining tends to develop in the shady areas around your home. A good seasonal washing is the cure.

Here’s a link to a recent blog that breaks down all the various exterior siding materials available today. We are good to help you review all the options and determine what is the best fit for your home.