What's wrong with vinyl siding?

Warping and buckling are both problems associated with vinyl siding, these issues only occur when the siding is not installed correctly. Vinyl siding expands and contracts as the outside temperature changes. In the summer, when temperatures are high, vinyl expands.

What is the average life expectancy of vinyl siding?

Vinyl siding is a common choice for home cladding, and it lasts much longer than you would expect. With no effort or cleaning, your vinyl will last about 60 years max but with meticulous care and maintenance (hand-washing every year), the lifespan can be extended up to 100 years!

Is vinyl siding trashy?

It's a relatively new material used in siding and flooring and wasn't available commercially until the 1950s. It was created as a replacement for aluminum siding. One argument against vinyl is that it cracks, it fades, it sags, and that it will make your home look trashy (much to the chagrin of your neighbors).

What are the advantages and disadvantages of vinyl siding?

Vinyl siding can't chip or scratch – but it will fade. While vinyl siding holds a manufacturer's claim to last up to 30 years before it begins to deteriorate, it still may require replacement within 10-15 years in some climates.

Is vinyl siding better than it used to be?

The Durability

While both vinyl and fiber cement are rot resistant and pest resistant, unlike traditional wood planks, Hardie board siding is inflammable, warp resistant, Engineered for Climate®, and impact resistant. On the other hand, vinyl is more susceptible to warping and cracking.

Why You Should Ditch The Vinyl Siding

What is the longest lasting house siding?

Vinyl siding is a popular choice when it comes to your home's cladding and actually lasts much longer than expected. With no effort or cleaning, it's expected to last you about 60 years but with meticulous care and maintenance, you can expect your vinyl siding to last up to 100 years.

Does vinyl siding ever need to be painted?

Vinyl siding is one of the most durable, low-maintenance options for covering a home you can find. There's no need to paint it every few years like you might with wood siding. As far as maintenance goes, if you pressure wash it every two years, you're done!

What are three disadvantages to vinyl siding?

Does vinyl siding decrease home value?

Vinyl siding helps increase a home's value by adding a fresh appearance, durability, low maintenance and energy efficiency. According to the 2019 Home Remodeling Impact Report, a vinyl siding upgrade will increase a home's value by 63 percent of the project's cost.

Is vinyl siding a good investment?

And according to a report by CNBC, vinyl siding can recoup up to 89% of its initial cost when the time comes to sell your home. To put that in perspective, a $9,000 investment in new vinyl siding will add $8,000 to your home's asking price, which is pretty impressive.

Does vinyl siding increase home value?

Adding new vinyl siding to your home can increase the value by approximately 76.7% of the project cost, according to Remodeling Magazine. One key thing to consider is whether the siding you select will maintain that value after it has been subjected to mother nature, or the neighbor's baseball.

Which is better vinyl siding or wood siding?

Long-lasting hardwood siding is a much better choice for the environment than using a plastic siding. With oil-based stains helping to protect it, the siding will last years longer than vinyl and it will look better the entire time.

Is Hardie board better than vinyl siding?

By contrast, Hardie® fiber cement siding is more durable and up to 5x thicker than vinyl siding. It easily stands up to the elements, resisting damage from wind, rain, freezing temperatures and hail, and gives homes years of protection with low maintenance.

How often does vinyl siding need to be painted?

You can paint siding every two to five years. However, if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions like humidity, snow, or direct sunlight, you may need to repaint your home more frequently.

Does vinyl siding ever need to be replaced?

While vinyl siding can last for decades, it may need premature replacement if it wasn't installed properly. Siding can become damaged if nailed too tightly or at an angle. You should be able to move vinyl house siding a half inch or so horizontally.

Is it cheaper to paint vinyl siding or replace it?

Painting Siding:

Cost: Painting the siding is much cheaper than replacing it. Color choices: Sidings may not have many color options, but you can find a unique color in paint hues. Time: Whether you hire a professional or paint yourself, it will take less time than replacement.

What is underneath vinyl siding?

Underlayment

Underlayment or weather resistive barrier (WRB) is installed between the siding and the sheathing. This can be tar paper or a house wrap such as HardieWrap® or Tyvek HomeWrap®. HardieWrap® is great for keeping water out and at the same time letting water vapor escape from the house.

How often should house siding be replaced?

Siding is a key element in your house because it serves as the first line of defense against elements that might affect your house. A good siding should last between 20 and 40 years with proper care. However, it is also good to note that the type of siding material will determine whether it stands the test of time.

What color siding is best for resale?

Neutral Siding Colors Are The Best For Resale Values

Neutral colors are by far the best for resale value because they appeal to the broadest group of potential buyers.

Does vinyl siding crack?

As homes settle, subpar vinyl siding materials can tend to crack. Gaps and breaks from loosened siding allow rain to seep in between panels and into your home, creating the perfect environment for unhealthy mold and mildew to grow. Unfortunately, cracks also make way for pest infestation.

Why is vinyl siding so popular?

It boasted low-maintenance, came in a variety of prefinished colors and was reasonably priced, making it a popular choice for lower-end homes. Over the next twenty years, manufacturers began offering vinyl siding in a broader range of styles and colors, making it more appealing for ALL types of homes.

Is vinyl siding better than shingles?

Vinyl Shake Siding Is More Durable AND Weather-Proof

Without treatment, even durable red cedar shingles rot and are affected by weather. Water damage can cause cedar shingles to swell and rot or warp. Vinyl shake, on the other hand, is resistant to the elements. (There's zero need for maintenance).

Why you should not paint vinyl siding?

Paint Color Selection

This will cause the siding to warp and buckle from heat absorption. The heat from the sun is trapped between the coating and vinyl causing damage to the siding. Be sure to select an appropriate color based on the siding brand and current color.

Can you refinish vinyl siding?

If your siding is looking faded or worn, or if you've just grown tired of the color, you might be wondering: “Can vinyl siding be painted?” The answer is: Yes, vinyl siding can indeed be painted! On homes in which siding covers most of the exterior, painting vinyl siding can be a large project.

Can I pressure wash painted vinyl siding?

Most homeowners can pressure wash their siding, slap on a primer if needed, and get to rolling on paint.