How Long Does Vinyl Siding Last?
When it’s time to replace the siding on your home, you’ll find you have many different types to choose from for the replacement. Because this is a big project and you’ll be making a significant investment in your home, you want to feel confident you’ve chosen the perfect siding.
Below, we’ll go over the answers to some questions you may be asking yourself, like “How do I know when I need new siding?” and “What siding lasts the longest?” With this guide, we hope to make choosing your new siding an easier process.
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is one of the most popular options. It is the least expensive and offers numerous other advantages. Vinyl is resistant to bugs, mold, extreme temperature changes and other elements. It is also relatively maintenance-free. Usually, you’ll only have to complete maintenance on the siding after a storm or another accident.
Although vinyl has several unique advantages, it also has a few disadvantages. You cannot paint vinyl, and the color is prone to fading over time. However, an inability to repaint may be seen as a positive too. If you choose a color you love, you don’t have to touch it up. The fading is also more of a cosmetic problem than a functional one.
Typically, vinyl siding lasts between 20 and 40 years. This seems like a big window, but its lifespan depends on several variables. The amount of sun your home receives, the weather and other forces can affect how long it lasts.
Fiber Cement Siding
This type of siding is also known for its durability, low maintenance and affordable cost. James Hardie is the most common brand for this type of siding — many people use this name interchangeably with fiber cement.
Fiber cement siding resists insects, mold and fungus, weather-related forces and UV rays. Its strength is similar to concrete but can be made to mimic other siding materials. This versatility has made the siding a favorite among many homeowners.
Fiber cement siding has a long lifespan but will need to be repainted occasionally. The installation process is also difficult and more costly. The material is durable, but it is heavy, which means installers will need more time and skill to install your new fiber cement siding correctly.
Fiber cement has an excellent lifespan and could last as long as the home itself.
Steel Siding
Steel is a more common siding material for commercial purposes, but it has excellent strength and durability for any building. Install it on your home to give your house a unique look. It stands up well to all kinds of weather, requires minimal maintenance and has a competitive cost.
This material does have some disadvantages. While the cost will pay off in the long run with exceptional durability, it is one of the most expensive siding options up front. Some people also dislike the look of steel siding on a home, feeling that it gives houses a more industrial look. If you live in a neighborhood with a strict homeowners association, this appearance may be a problem.
Like fiber cement, steel siding is expected to last for the lifespan of the home.
Stone Veneer Siding
This material is usually used as an accent instead of covering an entire house. Stone veneer is more expensive than steel and would be very costly to side the whole home with.
However, stone veneer has excellent strength and lasts long. Homeowners love stone veneer because it offers a unique and elegant look. When properly installed, this type of siding will last between 20 and 75 years. This significant difference in lifespan is due to the variety of stone available.
While many homeowners use stone veneer for an accent, you can choose to side your entire home with it. If you have the budget, the material gives a home a classic, refined look.
What Is the Most Durable Siding?
As you decide on the best type of siding for your home, you must consider a few factors. Cost, available options and durability are some common considerations.
Durability varies between the different materials, and how often you need new siding replaced depends on numerous variables. These include different materials’ maintenance needs, their resistance to the elements and your ability to give it proper care throughout its lifetime.
If you’re asking “How do I know when I need new siding?”, you aren’t alone. Look out for the following signs that can indicate your home or business needs new siding:
- The material is warping
- Your heating and cooling systems aren’t working as efficiently
- You find holes, cracks and other damage to the siding
- Mold, mildew or fungus is growing on the siding
If you notice any of these signs on your siding, or if the siding is past its estimated lifespan, it may be time for a replacement.
The best type of siding is the material that best fits your unique needs. At Sunshine Contracting Corp, we offer a variety of siding materials and can help each of our customers find the right fit for their home or business.
Schedule a free in-home consultation or contact us today to learn more.
