Choosing the right siding for your home can feel overwhelming. Maybe you’re tired of constant maintenance on your current exterior, worried about rising energy costs, or unsure which option will give your home the most protection from the elements.

If you’ve been researching, you’ve likely come across vinyl siding -- but is it the right choice for you? 

In this article, we’ll cut through the confusion and give you clear, helpful information about vinyl siding. We’ll explore its benefits, address common concerns, and share tips on making the most of this popular siding option.

Whether you’re looking for durability, affordability, or style, this guide will help you decide if vinyl siding is the solution to your home improvement needs. 

What Exactly Is Vinyl Siding? 

Let’s talk about what vinyl siding actually is. 

Made primarily from PVC (polyvinyl chloride), vinyl siding has come a long way since its introduction in the 1950s. Today's vinyl siding comes in countless styles, textures, and colors – you can even find options that convincingly mimic wood grain or cedar shakes. 

Along with styles, there are different grades of vinyl siding that provide different levels of protection. 

Different Grades of Vinyl

There are a few different grades to choose from, but the top three grades include:

  • Builder’s Grade – Is typically around .40 mm in thick, this is the cheapest and thinnest grade of siding. It provides a limited amount of insulation and protection. Due to its light weight, it has the shortest lifespan and is typically used on mobile homes. ​

  • Standard Residential Grade – With a middle ground thickness of .40-.41 mm, this is one of the more common siding grades. It isn’t as prone to sagging as thinner grades but can still crack in cold climates.

  • Premium Grade – Coming in at .42 – .44 mm, this grade offers protection against temperature fluctuations, high winds, impacts, and is resistant to UV fading. It can be more expensive than fiber-cement siding but has a shorter lifespan. 

It gets even more complex once you add foam-backed varieties, which can strengthen the siding against impacts and adds more insulation to thinner grades. Depending on the brand, foam-backed siding can offer and R-value between 2.0-5.0.

Choosing the right brand is another factor, since some may have stronger warranties, or be more resistant to UV fading than others.

When choosing the right siding for your home, it is essential to consider factors like climate, durability, and budget.  

Thinner grades may be more affordable but offer less protection, while thicker grades provide better insulation and resistance to the elements. Investing in a higher grade can enhance longevity and performance, making it a worthwhile choice for areas with extreme weather conditions. 

Vinyl Siding: Installation Process 

The installation process of vinyl siding is relatively quick and straightforward compared to other materials, as it doesn’t require painting or staining.  

Pre-colored panels are securely fastened to the exterior of your home, reducing labor time, and allowing for faster completion. While this speeds up installation and eliminates the need for future touch-ups, it’s important to choose a color and style you’ll be happy with long-term, as changing it later would require replacing the siding.  

A skilled contractor should: 

  1. Remove the old siding.
  2. Install moisture barrier and insulation. 
  3. Add trim pieces.
  4. Install panels from bottom to top. 
  5. Finish with details around windows and doors. 

Who Sells and Installs Vinyl Siding? 

It’s important to have a licensed, bonded and insured contractor install your siding, no matter what siding material you choose.  

Certified contractors will be able to provide the expertise and training needed to ensure a proper and long-lasting installation. Certified contractors are familiar with manufacturer guidelines, which helps maintain warranties and prevent costly mistakes or repairs.  

Is Vinyl Siding Right for Your Home? Vinyl Siding Explained

They also adhere to local building codes, ensuring your home is safe and compliant. Additionally, their professional workmanship enhances your home's curb appeal, energy efficiency, and overall protection against weather elements, giving you peace of mind and long-term value. 

Let's Talk Money: Price Range 

I know what you're thinking – "Cut to the chase, what's this going to cost me?" Here's the general guideline: 

Basic vinyl siding typically runs between $14-17 per square foot installed with accessories like trim and flashing, while premium options can go up to $21-25 per square foot. For an average 2,000-square-foot home, you're looking at: 

  • Budget vinyl: $28,000-34,000 

  • Mid-range vinyl: $34,000-42,000 

  • Premium vinyl: $42,000-50,000

While square footage is a good place to start, other factors come into play when it comes to pricing. Some styles of homes have

The Advantages of Vinyl Siding 

Vinyl siding has earned its popularity for several practical reasons: 

  • The initial cost can be lower than many alternatives. Compared to fiber cement or wood siding, some grades of vinyl can save thousands on installation. 
  • Maintenance requirements are minimal. A yearly cleaning with soap and water usually suffices – no painting or sealing needed. 
  • Quality panels can last 20-30 years and resist insect damage, rot, and most weather conditions. 
  • Color options are vast, and higher-end products now include realistic wood grain textures. The color goes through the material, so scratches are less noticeable. 

The Drawbacks 

Despite its benefits, vinyl siding isn't perfect: 

  • Severe weather can cause problems. Extreme heat can warp panels, while strong winds might catch and tear them. Impact damage from hail or flying debris can crack panels. Damage to the siding can mean a full replacement.
  • Environmental concerns exist. Vinyl production creates pollution, and the material isn't biodegradable. While recyclable, most old siding ends up in landfills. 
  • The appearance of vinyl siding, while improved, still may not satisfy everyone. Historic districts and some HOA regulations prohibit vinyl siding, and some homeowners feel it looks too artificial. 
  • The return on value is lower than other siding materials since it's considered a low end product versus something like fiber-cement that retains or increases a home's value.
  • Colors may fade over time in UV light (though some products are more fade-resistant than others).

Drawbacks Beyond the Product

Over improper installation can lead to diminished home value, a shortened lifespan of your siding, and a generally unattractive home.

  • Some contractors may skip the removal of old siding to save time and disposal fees, but this can add stress to your homes structure and trap mold and mildew that can lead to rot
  • A proper moisture barrier between your home’s structure and the siding is often overlooked during install but can protect your home from water damage. When rot becomes an issue, your siding may need to be removed prematurely, and you won’t get the full life span of the product
  • The way that vinyl is installed around windows and doors allows wind-driven rain to seep though. So if you live in a storm prone area, this is an issue that can lead to water damage and rot beneath the siding.
  • Certain contractors prefer to install vinyl top to bottom, but bottom to top allows for proper water drainage and prevents build up than can cause damage underneath the siding

What Else is Out There? Alternatives to Consider

Vinyl isn't the only player in the game, and other options may be better for your home and climate than vinyl. Here are some other options to consider: 

  • Wood Siding: Classic look but requires more maintenance 

  • Metal Siding: Modern look, great durability  

  • Stucco: Popular in certain regions, very long-lasting 

Making the Right Choice : Is Vinyl Right For You?

When deciding if vinyl is right for you, consider these questions: 

  1. What's your budget? Be sure to look into pricing and long-term costs
  2. How long do you plan to stay in your home? Vinyl is great for long-term value but might not be the best choice if you're planning to sell soon in an upscale market. 
  3. What's your local climate like? Vinyl performs well in most conditions but might not be ideal in extreme heat or cold. 
  4. How much maintenance are you willing to do? If you're looking for low-maintenance, vinyl is your friend. 
  5. What's your neighborhood like? Look around at other homes – what materials are commonly used?

Vinyl siding can be an excellent choice for many homeowners, offering a perfect blend of affordability, durability, and low maintenance.

Remember, the best choice is the one that fits your specific needs, budget, and situation. Don't let anyone pressure you into a decision – take your time, do your research, and choose what works best for you and your home. 

If you want to learn more about what siding is best for your home, schedule a free estimate with one of our experts!