Vinyl has been the most common siding material used in new construction for 25 years. That means there are tens of millions of existing vinyl-clad homes and many more are being built every year. If you are a vinyl siding homeowner or considering replacing or installing vinyl siding, here are some things you should know.

Vinyl is cheap, but not always the cheapest.

Affordability is one of the main selling points of vinyl sites and can be very inexpensive. But as with all siding materials, the price of vinyl increases with quality. According to HomeAdvisor’s True Cost Guide, a premium vinyl siding costs around $ 16,000 to install, while a medium-sized fiber cement siding costs around $ 12,000. So if you’re looking to move into your home on a budget, consider vinyl, but don’t rule out other materials.

Vinyl is known to produce a high return on investment.

Despite the volatility in price, vinyl siding is known to deliver tremendous value with a return on investment (or ROI) of around 75 percent, according to 2020 Cost vs. Remodeling magazine value study. That’s because it combines competitive pricing and performance with an ever-improving look thanks to a variety of colors and styles, from pearl stitching to board and batten.

It is not suitable for all climates.

Despite the continuous improvements in the latest generation vinyl, it is not the best choice for all regions. For example, the material tends to fade over time. So if you live in a hot, sunny climate, you’re probably better off with stucco. Vinyl is also prone to damage from wind and cold. If your home is taking a lot of hits during winter, wood or fiber cement siding is a better option.

Proper installation is critical.

While vinyl is relatively easy to install, bad work can cause kinks and warps, and it can also cause moisture to enter your home. Unless you are a skilled handyman, this project is best left to the professionals. Look for professionals who are certified by the Vinyl Siding Institute.

Think twice about working with a professional who will recommend applying a new layer of vinyl siding over the existing layer in your home. While technically possible, it is best to remove the old siding so that you can start over and also deal with any underlying issues such as termite damage or rotted casing.

Low maintenance does not mean maintenance free

Yes, vinyl siding is easy to care for – it doesn’t require regular painting, as is the case with wood paneling or repositioning a brick facade. But you do need to take care of your vinyl siding by keeping it clean. A simple garden hose picks up dirt and dust. Mold stains can be removed with soapy water and a brush. A high-pressure cleaner also blows up heavy deposits. Only use a low-power setting to avoid spraying water and dirt between the siding and the wall as this can cause mold and rot.

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