Vinyl Siding vs Alternatives
How does vinyl siding compare with other siding materials?
Vinyl has become the fastest-selling cladding for homes, in part, because it is among the most affordable. It also requires little maintenance; vinyl siding never needs painting or staining. It won't chip, peel or rot, and manufacturers say the latest siding products on the market won't dent or crack.
I want my house to stand apart from others in the neighborhood. Is that possible with vinyl siding?
Vinyl siding is quite versatile. Panels may be placed on a house vertically or horizontally. Most manufacturers offer the siding in a variety of colors, from pale yellows to smoky blues to barely-there beiges. One of the most popular styles of vinyl siding is wood-grain; the panels are embossed to look like oak--but they're not, so they require no painting. And many companies offer window and porch trim to create a unique look.
Is vinyl siding durable?
Manufacturers have steadily upgraded the way they produce vinyl siding, so it is far sturdier and longer-lasting that it was a dozen years ago. Most guarantee that the siding won't rot, crack, dent, warp, peel or blister. And they're making it strong enough to stay on the house even in hurricane-force winds.
How do I maintain my vinyl siding in ?
Vinyl siding requires just occasional cleaning. Ordinary rainfall will wash your vinyl siding on a regular basis. Homeowners should hose the siding down periodically with a garden hose, especially in areas where the siding isn't exposed to rain. If the vinyl gets soiled, it's easy to clean with a soft-bristled washing brush--but it should never be rubbed vigorously.