Although several different types of siding exist, vinyl siding easily mimics more expensive options and is one of the most popular types of home siding available today. Every home builder must eventually choose what siding best suits his or her particular home and his or her overall goals for that home.
In this article you can read about some of the major reasons some choose vinyl siding over other types of siding, and get information about factors that should be considered before deciding to proceed with vinyl siding on your home.
Positives:
Vinyl siding is durable. It lasts a very long time with very little work. As such, it is touted by advertisers as a great, long lasting, and relatively inexpensive (vinyl siding varies greatly in price) for home builders. Often, landowners who want to fix or build a home to rent, find vinyl appealing because it promises a long life and less out of pocket down the road. It doesn’t rot, chip or peel, and individual panels can be replaced easily. Homeowners undergoing the expense and inconvenience of replacing the current siding on their homes may find the promise of durability especially appealing.
Vinyl siding is easy to clean and maintain. Dirt and debris slide off of vinyl siding easily. It can be hosed down to keep its clean, fresh appearance and shine for many years. There is no need for shining, staining, or repainting.
Vinyl siding comes in a variety of colors and finishes. With the large assortment of siding to choose from, your color choice is virtually limitless. It can mimic rock or wood. The color is baked through to limit fading and eliminate scratches, keeping siding looking great for years to come.
Negatives:
Vinyl siding will never drive up the value of a home the way wood or stone will. Many home buyers have come to expect vinyl siding, or not know the difference, but they will never prefer it over more organic siding choices.
Health concerns. Although the producers of vinyl siding largely and loudly refute them, allegations that vinyl manufacturing processes cause cancer and other health concerns add to the controversy over vinyl siding. When vinyl siding burns it releases chemical toxins, and, if discarded, does not break down the way natural products do.
When choosing vinyl siding these issues should be further considered and researched. Both proponents and opponents of vinyl siding claim to have scientific and medical research on their side, lending credibility to their positions. For those whose major concern is the environment, many green options exist for siding. For those whose primary concern is cost, color-choice, profit, and durability, vinyl siding might be the correct option.
Other available siding choices include: wood, stone veneer, brick, and stucco, each with their own sets of pros and cons. Every home must have siding, the decision to go with any particular siding should depend largely on the homeowners overall priorities, goals and personal taste. As always, budget will be a factor, also.
