Now that spring is just around the corner, it’s perfectly normal to start forming that to-do list of repairs and renovations around the house. The warmer weather is particularly handy for any outdoor renovations you’d like to have done in this year. One of those projects may be to have vinyl siding installed or replaced on your home.
Before you rush into this job, however, it’s always a good idea to take a little time and do your research so you know what to expect. Here’s a look at some of the pros and cons of vinyl siding on the exterior of your home.
The Pros of Vinyl Siding
When it comes to the pros of vinyl siding, the list is long. Perhaps one of the biggest is the fact you can buy it ready to go in terms of the color. There is no need to paint it, and you can choose from all kinds of colors. And what’s great is that the paint will never need touch-ups down the road.
That takes us to the maintenance, which is very low with vinyl siding. You’ll want to do your best to keep it clean by removing dirt, debris, dust, and cobwebs, but that’s about it.
Another huge pro is the cost. Vinyl siding is known for being extremely affordable in terms of exterior material for a home.
The Cons of Vinyl Siding
When it comes to the cons, one of the most common complaints that homeowners have is the fact that over time, vinyl siding can start to grow mold on it. It tends to take on a slimy or even a fuzzy look and can range in color from black to red, to dark deep green. Often it will be accompanied by an odor that is musty – a tell-tale sign of mold growth. You never want to ignore mold as it can cause structural damage, trigger allergies, and cause more serious health issues.
If you do find mold, you’re going to need to call in a professional to remove it in a safe and effective manner. As Advantage Construction Inc. explains, it can grow very quickly and get out of hand fast.
Other cons of vinyl siding include the installation, which isn’t exactly straightforward. If you’re a home DIYer, there’s a good chance you won’t be able to tackle this job. In fact, unless a contractor has been properly certified and has the right training, they shouldn’t tackle it either.
Vinyl siding can also bring down the value of your home, as it’s not everyone’s first choice for exterior siding material.
Then there is the environmental factor, and the truth of the matter is that vinyl siding isn’t environmentally-friendly. This is due to the by-products that are created during the manufacturing process.
Give It Plenty of Thought First So, before you go ahead and have vinyl siding installed on your home, it’s worth your time to give it thought and decide if it’s the right material for your house.
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