Arrowhead

Why Settle for Vinyl Siding?

In a recent study of homeowners who chose vinyl siding, more than 50% stated that they would have chosen fiber-cement siding instead, had they known what fiber-cement was, and had they been given more information about it prior to their vinyl siding purchase.

James Hardie and Certainteed are the most popular brands of siding in North America for all the right reasons. Any other siding choice is a compromised decision that informed homeowners and building owners know to avoid. Fiber-cement siding will give you everything you really want, and as you can see, alternatives that may seem cheaper in the short run, end up being the more costly choice over time.

Five Things to Consider About Vinyl Siding:
1. It’s Only A Cover-Up. Since vinyl siding is often installed over your old problematic existing siding your current problems may continue to get worse. Additionally, since vinyl is not tightly nailed to the home, it invites insects and moisture to build behind panels, potentially penetrating the structure of the home.

2. It’s Flammable. Vinyl siding may melt or burn if heat from a barbeque grill or a fire is nearby. Additionally, numerous counties/districts across the country are going to great lengths to educate homeowners about the inherent flammability of vinyl siding.

3. It Fades. They told you that vinyl siding was "Life-Time", think again. Over time all colors are going to fade from the sun. So with vinyl what are my options:

• Install a replacement piece, good luck finding a matching color.
• Reside with vinyl again.
• You can attempt to paint it but because it was designed to expand and contract with climate changes, painted vinyl panels tend to crack and peel over time.

4. The Warranty. What does "Life-Time" really mean? Be sure to closely review the warranty’s fine print to see what is truly covered and for how long. Review closely a vinyl manufacturer’s definition of "Normal Weathering." In addition most of those warranties have confusing pro-ratings that almost always favor the manufacturer.

5. You Can't Fake Quality. Although vinyl siding attempts to imitate the look of wood siding, aesthetically it falls short. Many would argue that its overlapping seams and faux wood grain are very unnatural, leaving the home lacking curb appeal.