Vinyl Siding Myths Debunked!
If you’re thinking about residing your home this fall, you’ve probably done some research on the different materials available. Vinyl siding is America’s number one choice of siding material. According to the Vinyl Siding Institute, since 1995 more homeowners clad their homes with vinyl siding than any other exterior cladding. In spite of this fact, many people are still hesitant to choose vinyl siding as a result of circulating myths. This post is meant to debunk those myths and give you the real truth about vinyl siding.
Myth #1: All vinyl siding looks the same.
It’s a common misconception that siding your home with vinyl siding will make it look like everyone else’s; there will be no uniqueness to it and it will simply blend in with all of the other houses that have vinyl siding. While this may have been true when vinyl siding was first used in the 1950’s, since then many strides have been made in terms of both design and performance. According to the Vinyl Siding Institute, there are more than 350 colors available, as well as a variety of finishes and custom trim and accessories. Vinyl siding can be customized to fit just about any homeowner’s needs and can look vastly different from a neighboring home that also has vinyl siding.
Myth #2: Vinyl siding isn’t durable.
The light weight of vinyl siding fools some homeowners into thinking that it won’t last, or can’t withstand the outside elements well. The truth is, vinyl siding is certified to withstand high winds of up to 110 mph and can resist heat, cold, and moisture for years. Warranties for vinyl siding can range anywhere from 20-40 years.
Myth #3: Vinyl siding looks fake.
Some homeowners are fearful that choosing vinyl siding will make the exterior of their home look fake. In the past, vinyl siding was manufactured to mimic the appearance of wood or other materials and the results weren’t great. Today vinyl siding can be produced as nearly indistinguishable from the real thing. The design and manufacturing process has become so advanced that it would take an expert to determine the real differences. PlyGem is a great brand that produces high quality vinyl siding with custom finishes and colors that will make any home look beautiful.
Myth #4: Vinyl siding Is harmful to the environment.
The environment is a major concern for certain homeowners, and some steer away from vinyl siding thinking that it is not environmentally friendly. In fact, vinyl siding is one of the most environmentally friendly siding materials available. According to a study by the Vinyl Siding Institute, “Brick has nearly five times the environmental impact of vinyl siding and nearly four times the impact of insulated siding. Fiber cement has nearly three times the environmental impact of vinyl siding and more than double the environmental impact of insulated siding.” Vinyl siding is a great choice if you’re concerned about protecting the environment, not to mention it can lower bills with its energy efficient properties.
Myth #5: Vinyl siding Is low quality.
There are many siding options available such as wood, fiber, metal and vinyl. Vinyl siding is sometimes mistakingly thought of as lower in quality in comparison to the other options. This is a misconception that you shouldn’t believe! In fact, according to Remodeling Magazine’s 2013 Cost vs. Value Report, choosing to replace your siding with vinyl offers a 72.9% return on investment. Vinyl siding leads the way in home exterior design and can transform an outdated home into one that is beautiful and refreshed.
