Vinyl siding has become incredibly popular over the last few years. It’s very cheap compared to other siding materials, so it’s accessible to everyone. Many styles and colors are available, even those that mimic other siding like stone or wood slats, so whatever look you want for your home you’re likely to find it with vinyl siding. While we’d still recommend a professional, it’s easy to install, and as you pay for time, that helps keep your budget on track. It’s also long-lasting with little maintenance needed and is effective at keeping pests outside where they should be.

It's easy to see then why it’s become a trending siding material, but there are vinyl siding disadvantages. It can crack in cold weather and fade in hot, although some of these issues have been ironed out with newer vinyl siding. Vinyl expands and contracts with temperature changes. If it isn’t installed correctly, or if temperature changes happen very quickly, it could lead to the vinyl cracking. For these reasons, working with experienced roofing companies can ensure your siding and roofing are installed correctly and built to withstand the elements.

While vinyl is cheaper upfront, it may not be in the long run. Although it’s a sturdy material that gives good protection, many people don’t like the look of it. This means it won’t add to the value of your home the way that classic choices like stone and brick would.

Although little maintenance is typically needed, because of the way it’s installed, it’s difficult to replace a single panel of vinyl siding. This means if you do need a repair at any point, it may be costly. When considering which home improvement to prioritize, whether siding or roofing , it’s essential to weigh these potential expenses and plan accordingly for long-term durability and value.

Tips on Deciding Whether or Not to Use Vinyl

A lot of vinyl siding limitations come down to climate. If you live somewhere with high heat, for example, your siding could warp over time. Frequent temperature changes and cold temperatures put strain on the vinyl, which can cause cracking. Vinyl might be best for you if you live in a mild climate that doesn’t experience extreme weather changes. There is also some worry that vinyl can trap moisture between the siding and the insulation that’s usually installed behind it. If this isn’t noticed in time and builds up, it could lead to mold or water damage to your home if it destroys the insulation. Leaving a moisture barrier when you install vinyl siding can help prevent this issue, but vinyl is still probably best for drier climates.

You should also consider how important the environment is to your everyday decisions. Vinyl siding is largely composed of PVC. This material doesn’t biodegrade and releases toxic gases during its production process. Vinyl siding in the right climate can last up to 40 years, though, so while it’s not the most sustainable choice, it’s not something you could consider single use. 
For professional guidance on whether vinyl siding suits your home and climate, consider consulting Four Leaf Roofing & Windows to explore options customized to your needs.

Alternatives to Vinyl Siding if it Isn’t Right for Your Home

If you’ve read these vinyl siding pros and cons and decided it isn’t for you, don’t worry, as there are plenty of siding options out there. Other lower-cost options include fiber cement and metal. Metal, especially aluminum, isn’t as popular now because it requires a fair amount of maintenance and can be difficult to clean. It is, however, a long-lasting choice that provides good weather protection, and as long as it isn’t coated, it should be able to be recycled once you need to replace it. Fiber cement has a similar look to vinyl siding and is also available in styles that give the look of more popular sidings such as wood and brick. It’s long-lasting and stands up well to weather. It’s also resistant to mold, which is great if you live in a humid climate or have snow thawing and freezing repeatedly. It’s difficult to damage, so it needs little maintenance.

Stone is a timeless classic that protects your home from all weathers. It gives your home an eye-catching look and doesn’t require too much maintenance, although you have to be careful when cleaning it. Natural stone is expensive but will add value to your home when you come to sell it. If your budget can’t stretch to that, manufactured stone is a cheaper option with the same visual appeal. If you are in the area, connecting with skilled siding contractors in Milwaukee can help you explore stone siding options that suit your style and budget. Additionally, for homeowners in cities beyond Milwaukee, expert services are available to guide your decision-making. To ensure your home’s exterior is well-maintained, consider pairing your siding upgrades with reliable  roofing services in Cudahy or scheduling roof repair in Mequon to keep your home protected and looking its best.

If you’re still unsure, book a siding consultation with Four Leaf Roofing & Windows, a company that puts you and the planet first. Find more information here.