Vinyl siding has become an attractive alternative to other materials for those who prefer the glossy finish. Moreover, it goes up cheaper and faster than aluminum, and fibre cement materials such as Hardie boards. However, there is more to choosing vinyl siding that just installation price.
It may be the most popular exterior cladding for residential construction in the United States and Canada. However, some baggage comes with it and we detail the pros and cons here. The choice of material rests with you, although we would be delighted if you choose us as your siding contractor.
There’s no doubt that choosing vinyl siding makes good sense in terms of durability, versatility, and ease of maintenance. Moreover, the product comes with a partial fastening and locking system with nails to attach it to the underlying support.
These clips also hold successive strips together allowing the installation to expand and contract as the ambient temperature changes. However, there are several other aspects to this ingenious system you may need to consider too.
Vinyl siding is a thin-profile polyvinyl product meaning it is combustible. The National Institute of Standards and Technology in Maryland observed fire spreading between adjacent buildings six feet apart within five minutes. Moreover, the fumes are toxic and this may affect the survival of people inside the building.
However, with this exception vinyl siding is virtually indestructible, and less than 1% of it recycles according to Greenpeace International. Many recycling depots are unable to accept it, and those that do often burn it adding to carbon dioxide emissions. Although its durability ensures this would take a long time to happen.
However, vinyl siding could start hinting for replacement long before it reaches its 20 to 30 year design lifespan. In hindsight, choosing vinyl siding may seem the wrong decision as the colour fades and the boards take on dirt. Unfortunately, you can’t paint it because the coat will crack and peal. Therefore you have to live with your choice, or replace it.
The fading appearance might in turn affect the perceived value of your home from a buyer’s perspective, although this does not affect you if you are there for the long haul. Therefore choosing Vinyl siding over Hardie siding is not a simple decision, because there are pros and cons to both options.
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