Exploring the Pros and Cons of Vinyl Siding

pros-and-cons-of-vinyl-siding

Vinyl siding is durable, cost-effective, attractive, and affordable. It can withstand extreme temperatures and weather without requiring a lot of care or maintenance. It is also very easy to install and can often be installed in just one day. If you’re planning new construction or want to replace old, damaged, or outdated exterior siding on your home, here is a look at the pros and cons of choosing this kind of siding in Baltimore County, MD.

What is Vinyl Siding?

Vinyl siding is an affordable, durable exterior siding that can mimic the appearance of natural wood and is made from polyvinyl chloride or PVC. It is low-cost and low-maintenance and has been popular since the 1960s as an alternative to wood siding or fiber cement siding. Vinyl siding is available in a wide range of styles, textures, and colors and can be installed horizontally or vertically. It can also be installed over old wood siding to retrofit existing buildings.

How Does Vinyl Siding Compare to Other Exterior Siding Options?

Vinyl siding is generally less expensive and lower maintenance than other exterior siding options. With proper care and maintenance, it can last up to 30 years and doesn’t require a lot of upkeep to stay attractive. Here is a look at how it compares to other popular exterior siding options:

  • Aluminum and metal siding – Metal siding is lightweight and can last up to 40 years with proper maintenance, and is also rust-resistant, fireproof, waterproof, and bug-resistant. However, it is considered outdated as it isn’t as durable as other options.
  • Brick siding – Brick siding is durable and attractive and is fire- and pest-resistant. However, it is very expensive and high maintenance.
  • Fiber cement siding – Fiber cement siding is durable, fire-resistant, and UV resistant. It can be molded into different shapes and can mimic different textures. However, the installation is time consuming, and it is more expensive than vinyl.
  • Engineered wood siding – Engineered wood siding is durable, bug-resistant, and attractive. It is also a low-cost option compared to metal, brick, or natural stone siding. However, it can increase the risk of moisture intrusion and may not be a great long-term option.
  • Wood siding – Real wood siding can be painted or stained and can be installed quickly. However, it is susceptible to insect and water damage and requires a lot of care and maintenance. It isn’t as cost-effective as vinyl siding.

What are the Pros of Vinyl Siding?

There are a lot of reasons why vinyl siding might be the right choice for your Maryland home. Here are some of the biggest benefits of choosing vinyl as your siding material:

  • Cost-effective – Vinyl is much more affordable than many other types of exterior siding. The siding and installation typically costs between $3,000-8,000 per 1,000 square feet.
  • Style and design choices – It is also available in a wide variety of style, color, and design choices. You can choose exterior siding that mimics the appearance of natural wood or stone, and you have your choice of almost any color. It’s easy to find options that complement your home and your personal aesthetics.
  • Low-maintenance – Vinyl doesn’t require a lot of care or maintenance when compared to other exterior siding options. You won’t need to paint, stain, or seal your vinyl siding. You just need to wash it and keep it clean.
  • Easy to repair – If your siding does become damaged, it is faster, less expensive, and easier to repair than other siding options.
  • Durable – Vinyl is incredibly durable and can withstand extreme temperatures, wind, rain, snow, and sleet. It is resistant to moisture intrusion and pests and is also rust- and rot-resistant.
  • Energy-efficient – Vinyl siding installation can improve the energy-efficiency and comfort of your home. Vinyl can be a good insulator, and you can also install insulated vinyl for enhanced comfort and energy-efficiency.

What are the Cons of Vinyl Siding?

Like any other type of exterior siding, this type also has its disadvantages. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons to determine which type of siding is right for your home. Some of the cons include:

  • Fading and cracking – Over time, vinyl siding can fade or crack due to UV exposure and oxidation. However, most vinyl lasts at least 10 years before this happens.
  • Can’t be painted – Unlike wood, stucco, or metal siding, you can’t paint vinyl siding, so you won’t have as many renovation options if you decide that you want to change the appearance of your home.
  • Potential warping – In some climates, vinyl might warp if it is exposed to excessive heat for long periods of time.

What Factors Should I Consider When Choosing Exterior Siding?

There are a few key factors you should consider when choosing the right type of exterior siding for your home:

  • Siding material
  • Climate and temperature in your area
  • Your budget
  • Your future plans for your home
  • Appearance and aesthetics
  • Exterior siding of other homes on your block
  • Siding maintenance needs and durability
  • Energy-efficiency and environmental impact
  • Resistance to water, heat and cold, UV rays, and pests

Request an Estimate for Siding Installation

If you’re interested in finding the right type of exterior siding for your home, our team of experts at Badger Contracting can help. We specialize in durable, cost-effective, and attractive exterior siding solutions in Annapolis, Baltimore, Columbia, MD and beyond. We have a large selection of vinyl and fiber cement siding in a variety of colors and styles. We offer professional siding installation and siding replacement services. Call us today or fill out our online contact form to ask questions or request an estimate for siding installation.

Badger Contracting: Trusted Siding Contractors

At Badger Consulting, we never question your decisions around who you hire or how you hire them.

All we want to do is provide you with a quality service that you can trust. That means that, while we might not be the least expensive in the business, you can trust that we will provide quality installation services with trusted brands and products.

To our contractors, customer experience is king, and we believe that extends to how durable the product is and how long it lasts after installation as well. All our products come with product warranties, and every job has a labor warranty to match. You can rest assured knowing that your investment is backed with confidence, no matter where you are in the Maryland or Columbia region.

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