Vinyl siding is on top of the world. And on many American homes. Since 1994, new homes have employed the use of vinyl siding over any other one cladding option. But why is it the most popular option? And how can you choose the best vinyl siding for your house?

The Basics

Cladding is the outer shell of your home. It’s the exterior wrapping of the precious contents within. There are several cladding options for homes. Wood, stone, brick, metal, or vinyl siding are a few.

Updating the cladding on your home can boost its curb appeal. For example, there are a great variety of vinyl siding colors to choose from. Let your house leave a good lasting impression.

Vinyl siding is the most popular for many reasons.

Cost

Vinyl siding tends to cost much less than other cladding options, such as brick or wood. It’s common for vinyl siding to cost about $2 per square foot, including installation. While wood will cost more than triple that at about $7 per square foot, on average. Installation is extra.

Energy Efficiency

According to Direct Energy, heating and cooling represent much of our energy consumption. In fact, the average American home spends 46 percent of its energy on heating and cooling.

Outdated cladding can contribute to the loss of insulation. Updating with vinyl siding can seal your house more tightly. When insulation is improved, energy bills will decline.

Low Maintenance

Aluminum siding fades more quickly and often needs to be repainted. It can also suffer from other cosmetic damage, such as dents and scratches.

Wood tends to rot and split. And it needs periodic refinishing. Further, wood can attract pests, such as termites, who can wreak untold havoc on your home.

Vinyl siding can give the polished, modern look of aluminum. Or it can mimic the rustic, homey appearance of wood.

A good quality vinyl siding often needs only to be rinsed with a garden hose.

Durable

Of all the cladding options available, vinyl siding is one of the most durable. In fact, it’s designed to withstand extreme weather. High winds, blistering heat, and frigid cold will meet their match in vinyl siding.

High-quality vinyl siding will protect your home for decades.

Choosing Vinyl Siding

With so many varieties of vinyl siding, it can be confusing knowing where to turn. Breaking down the basics will help you get started.

Color

Refreshing your home with new vinyl siding means picking a new color. You’ll want something that appeals to you. You want your house to stand out. But not so much that it doesn’t harmonize with the rest of the neighborhood.
You want a color that complements the environment.

Consider surrounding colors. Look at the roof, trims, and accents. Remember doors and windows.

But don’t forget foliage. Natural surroundings, like trees and shrubs, provide a powerful backdrop to your home. Take in the big picture when choosing a color.

Style

Vertical siding is the more modern style, good for accenting specific areas. Horizontal siding is timeless, easy to install, and low maintenance. Finally, the shake/shingle style comes in different forms. They are more energy efficient but need some maintenance.

With so many options to choose from, consulting with a contractor upfront is wise.

Going Pro

Now that you’ve decided, you’ll want to get it installed. It’s essential that you go with the pros. You’ll want decorative vinyl siding contractors with experience.

Ask family, friends, and neighbors for recommendations. Search online for contractors near you. Be sure to read reviews from previous customers. Check that the company has a good rating and is insured.

Simply the Best

Updating the cladding on your home will add curb appeal and lower your energy costs. Vinyl siding is the way to go for a budget-friendly, low-maintenance solution you’ll enjoy for decades.

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