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Vinyl siding is not only versatile, durable, affordable to install and maintenance free, it can help reduce home heating and cooling costs. Most of all, vinyl siding is extremely diverse. For example, vinyl offers an assortment of architectural trims, textures and colors. According to the Vinyl Siding Institute there are over 350 certified vinyl siding colors.
Another advantage of vinyl siding is that you can emulate the appearance of various types of architectural accents and cladding, such as slate, stone and even wood. Vinyl is long-lasting, unlike wood, it retains its original appearance for a longer period of time. Additionally, vinyl siding is so durable that it can withstand 200 mph winds. If you are thinking about installing vinyl siding for your home, here are a few important things to consider.
#1 – Ensure Quality Vinyl Siding
Make sure you select quality vinyl siding that is weather-proof. Avoid choosing vinyl siding that’s thin. Thin, poor quality vinyl tends to crack easily during cold temperatures or buckle in the heat. The vinyl you select for your home should be durable enough to withstand extremely cold or warm weather. Consult with a professional installer to help you determine the level of thickness that is most suitable for your house.
#2 – Hire a Professional
Unless you’re experienced in vinyl siding installation, you should avoid installing it on your own. Vinyl siding installation mistakes can be costly in the long-run. For example, someone who is inexperience is more likely to install vinyl that is either too tight or too loose. Vinyl that’s too tight can cause poor ventilation within a home. Loosely fitted vinyl can become noisy.
#3 – Power Wash with Care
Be extra careful with power washing. Power washing doesn’t really cause damage when cleaning vinyl, but it can trap in water up behind the siding. As a result, you can develop mildew or mold problems with your home. Mold and mildew repair problems can be costly. There is no need to paint vinyl siding. Vinyl only requires annual cleaning with mild soap and water.
#4 – Select Wind Resistant Siding
Make sure you install vinyl siding that’s wind resistant. Siding that’s wind resistant is more likely to remain in tact during a storm. Don’t forget to inquire about any kind of warranty that comes with the vinyl siding. A reputable installer will offer warranty for vinyl installation.
#5 – Don’t Ignore Siding Seams
Don’t ignore vinyl siding seams. Often times, inexperienced contractors and some do-it-yourselfers will install vinyl the improper way. As a result, a house is left with unsightly gaps that detracts from a sidings finished appearance. Fixing poorly installed siding can take a major chunk out of a homeowner’s home improvement budget.
Bonus: Recent studies have showed that replacing a home’s siding, with vinyl, is considered one of the top home improvement projects for recouping costs when selling a house.
Lastly, make sure you choose the right contractor for the job. An experienced contractor will ensure that the siding you select for your home is not only protected against outdoor elements, he/she will make sure it is also bug resistant.
