PART 1: A REINTRODUCTION TO VINYL SIDING
Some homeowners treat siding as an optional addition to their home, not realizing the kind of work their walls do to protect them from heat, cold, water and everything in between. But given the job that home walls have, why not provide them with all the help they can get so they can better protect your property? This is where vinyl siding comes in. WHY VINYL SIDING? A popular siding material, vinyl is primarily made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a synthetic resin. Durable yet affordable, vinyl siding is easy to install and maintain compared to other materials like metal, stone and wood. As the material can accommodate various colors and finishes, it allows homeowners to pick out whatever will complement their home and their preferences. Want the appearance of stone or wood? Vinyl can also be made to look like other siding materials, letting you enjoy the beauty of stone or wood without the disadvantages.
A BRIEF HISTORY As an engineered product, vinyl siding was introduced to the American home improvement market in the 1950s.
PART 1: A REINTRODUCTION TO VINYL SIDING
Initially, it was created using mono-extrusion, a process where all PVC elements are formed into a single-layer product. Manufacturers now use co-extrusion, a process where the end product has two layers.
A CLOSER LOOK Vinyl siding’s outer layer is embedded with pigment to give the siding material its color. Ultraviolet protection is also added. The inner layer, on the other hand, is composed of substrate for insulation value. Vinyl is nowhere near as heavy as stone or wood, but it still has a distinct weight, 80% of which is attributed to its PVC component. The rest of the material’s weight comes from added elements that give vinyl siding its durability and appearance. There has to be a reason why vinyl siding is a popular choice, right? In Part Two, we discuss the advantages of vinyl to give you an idea why a lot of homeowners choose it.
PART 2: THE ADVANTAGES OF VINYL SIDING
Siding materials have improved vastly through the years, and that includes vinyl. Thanks to technology, advancements have given vinyl siding a boost, allowing it to offer homeowners a number of advantages.
Not needing repainting Vinyl siding removes painting from the home maintenance equation by retaining its color well. You can choose to repaint if you want to change the color of your home’s exterior but not because you have to, as its inherent finish will last year after year. Being durable Vinyl siding is durable enough to withstand the elements, not rotting or rusting even when wet weather is common. It also doesn’t easily bend or dent when physically struck. Requiring minimal cleaning or maintenance Everything lasts better with routine maintenance and the same is true for vinyl siding. However, it will need no more than a good wash once or twice a year to ensure it is still in good condition.
Looking like other siding materials
One of the best things about vinyl siding is that it can be made to look like other siding materials. It can be beautiful on its own but by looking like stone or wood, vinyl addresses issues in those other siding materials while looking just as exquisite, all for for the benefit of a homeowner.
PART 2: THE ADVANTAGES OF VINYL SIDING
Serving as an additional rain screen
Thanks to the level of water resistance it has, vinyl siding can act as a protective barrier for walls when it rains. However, this does not impede the home’s ability to “breathe,” keeping indoor air moisture at balanced levels.
Boosting home insulation
With vinyl siding, indoor heat stays in, stabilizing temperature levels inside your home to improve your comfort.
Given these benefits, it’s clear why more and more homeowners are opting to have vinyl siding installed. How to make the most of vinyl siding? Head on over to the last part of our blog series to learn more.
PART 3: CARING FOR VINYL SIDING - SOME TIPS
Vinyl siding has a number of advantages, which is why it’s such a popular choice with homeowners. A lot of people focus solely on how affordable it is, but it offers incredible value, combining a slew of benefits with a reasonable price. Still, even with all that you can save, getting vinyl siding is an investment and you’re going to want to protect it. It may be low-maintenance but vinyl siding will still benefit from receiving some love and care from you. To get you started, keep in mind the following: WASH IT ONCE A YEAR Just an annual wash will do for vinyl siding because most of the dirt it will accumulate can be washed away by regular rainfall. Simple scrubbing with a brush and hose will do the trick for tougher stains.
KEEP HEAT AWAY FROM YOUR SIDING Any hot object that could possibly damage your vinyl siding, such as a gas or charcoal grill, should be placed far away from the wall. Vinyl doesn’t usually dent easily but repeatedly being leaned on over time by heavy objects may lead to impressions on the siding.
PART 3: CARING FOR VINYL SIDING - SOME TIPS
SCHEDULE REGULAR INSPECTIONS You can do a visual inspection from time to time to see how your vinyl siding is doing. However, schedule a maintenance check as well with a professional so your siding can be more thoroughly assessed for hidden damage and possible structural issues.
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With vinyl siding, homeowners can boost their property’s defenses against various threats without breaking the bank. The range of options available also assures aesthetics aren’t undermined, adding value to a home by improving both its form and function.
Krech Exteriors 5866 Blackshire Path, Inver Grover Heights, MN 55076
Phone: (651) 968-8888 Fax: (651) 994-1388 KrechExteriors.com