A lot of homeowners are unsure how often they should replace the vinyl siding on their homes. Should you wait for it to start cracking or is there a certain number of years that you need to worry about? Knowing your type of vinyl and its lifespan will help you make an informed decision. We will be discussing about the different types of vinyl siding, its lifespan and when they might need to be replaced.
What is vinyl siding?
Vinyl siding is a type of exterior cladding that comes in one, or sometimes two panels. The first panel hangs from the bottom and attaches to an angled top rail with brackets on each side.
Vinyl siding was originally invented as part of wartime efforts by scientists at DuPont during WWII who were looking for ways to use plastic materials more efficiently and create new products without wasting them. Vinyl siding became popular because it could be installed easily over existing wood boards due to its non-porous surface which doesn’t absorb water like traditional paint does causing rot damage when moisture seeps through cracks in walls underneath vinyl sheeting.
Key Exteriors, Inc. offers replacement windows that provide the best value and expert installation in Fort Wayne, IN and surrounding areas since 2003. Their exclusive products lines have given thousands of homeowners enhanced benefits for years now so call today to schedule your consultation with one of our well-trained experts by dialing 260-492-8062!
Types of Vinyl Siding and Its Lifespan
The lifespan of vinyl siding depends on what type you have, how well you care for it and the climate. Here are some different types of vinyl siding and their life expectancy:
Aluminum Siding
Aluminum siding is a material that’s quickly becoming the most popular exterior finish. It has many benefits, including affordability and durability; but it also comes with some drawbacks as well. For one thing, aluminum always needs to be replaced within 20-40 years of installation due to its short service life (though this can vary depending on quality).
Wood Siding
Wood is a natural material and it lasts for 20 to 40 years depending on how well you care. You can extend the life of your wood siding by taking proper maintenance steps like painting every two years and replacing worn out caulking sealant around doors, windows, or other joints that let in water.
Steel Siding
For those of you looking for the most durable siding option, steel may be your best bet. Steel has a projected life expectancy of 40 years or more if properly taken care of and is typically one step up from aluminum in terms price.
Fiber Cement
Fiber cement siding offers a great combination of low maintenance and durability with the beautiful look that vinyl cannot match. Fiber cement is catching up to vinyl in popularity due to its attractive, durable nature which makes it easier on you since you won’t have to go out and replace your entire home’s exterior every few years like other materials require. You should be able to enjoy fiber cements from more than 100 years without any major problems.
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is a common choice for home cladding, and it lasts much longer than you would expect. With no effort or cleaning, your vinyl will last about 60 years max but with meticulous care and maintenance (hand-washing every year), the lifespan can be extended up to 100 years!
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly alternative that doesn’t need replacing after a couple of decades then consider using cedar shingles – they are made from recycled wood so even though they cost more upfront installation costs in some cases may actually save money over the long run.
When should vinyl siding be replaced?
Aside from considering the types of vinyl siding that you have, there are many factors to consider as to when you should replace it. These include:
The vinyl siding lifespan
Understanding when your siding was installed is essential for many reasons, but one of the most important factors to consider in its lifespan. Vinyl siding, which has been used since 1950s and improved over time with regards to durability, lasts on average between 30-40 years.
The first step in figuring out how old your vinyl or wood shingles are is knowing when they were originally installed on you home. If you can’t remember that information then there’s a chance it could be 10-20 years ago – depending upon when the house was built and or remodeled.
The vinyl siding is faded, worn, or broken/missing pieces
The vinyl siding on your home can be a blessing or it may become an eyesore. When the paint goes from bright yellow to dull, dirt won’t come off no matter how hard you try that is when replacing the siding becomes necessary. Also if you live in a place like that has very cold winters, very hot summers, and harsh weather conditions at different times of the year, your vinyl siding might start to break down over the years and you should consider replacing it even before nearing its lifespan.
The vinyl siding is allowing moisture to seep right through it
Vinyl siding protects your home from moisture, which can lead to mold growth. If you notice a leak on the outside of one of your walls or if there is condensation inside it, make sure that this small problem doesn’t escalate into an even bigger and more expensive issue by repairing the seal with new vinyl siding promptly!
Is it worth replacing vinyl siding?
With vinyl siding, you’re able to enjoy a beautiful home with low maintenance. Vinyl is resistant against pests such as termites and does not allow water damage like wood or aluminum would. In fact, the average return on investment for installing new vinyl siding in place of old worn out material has been found at 76%. Worth it? Definitely!
How much does it cost to replace a few pieces of vinyl siding?
Depending on how many pieces of vinyl you need, replacing your old dilapidated vinyl siding can be expensive. Vinyl costs between $2 and $4 per square foot for repairs. For example, if your 200-square-foot repair job is costing around $800 just in materials alone.
Does homeowners insurance cover vinyl siding?
It is important that you read your policy to find out whether or not it covers the damage of anything outside. If there are items on your property, such as metal siding, and they incur any problems due to a peril listed in the insurance contract then this will be covered by them.
If you’ve decided that it’s time to put up new vinyl siding or replace them on your home, Key Exteriors, Inc. can provide you with the Fort Wayne, IN siding installers you’ll need to do it. Reach out to us at (260) 203-1158 today or visit 821 W Coliseum Blvd #1, Fort Wayne, IN 46808 to set up a siding consultation.
