Vinyl Vs. Wood Siding: Pros And Cons
The siding on your home plays an important role. Not only does it protect your home from the elements like moisture and wind, but it also helps insulate and keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. If you're thinking of getting new exterior siding for your home, choosing the right material is key. Two popular choices are vinyl and wood cladding. Here are a few of the pros and cons of both.
VINYL SIDING
Pros
Affordable
One reason that vinyl siding has become such a popular option for homes across the country is that it's extremely affordable. The average cost for vinyl siding installed is between $1 and $8 per square foot.
Durable
Durability is also a major factor in its popularity. Not only is it affordable, but it also holds up very well under standard environmental conditions. In fact, even when completely ignored and left unmaintained, vinyl siding can last between 20 and 40 years. When properly maintained, vinyl siding may hold up for 50 years or more.
Cons
Can't Handle Extreme Weather
Although vinyl is great in normal weather conditions, it can crack in extreme cold and warp in cases of extreme heat. If you live in an area with extreme weather temperatures or weather events, it may not be the best choice for your home.
Environmental Concerns
If using environmentally friendly products is a concern for you, vinyl isn't usually the best option. The same qualities that make it a durable material also make disposal problematic because it doesn't decompose in a landfill and most recycling centers won't accept it. Additionally, the production of vinyl siding creates harmful chemicals.
WOOD SIDING
Pros
Handles Most Extreme Weather
Unlike vinyl siding, wood siding is a material that will hold up to extreme temperatures. So if you live in an area with sweltering summers or freezing winters, wood siding can handle it. It won't warp or crack. Extreme humidity is the only weather event that might be troublesome for wood.
Eco-Friendly
Wood siding is more eco-friendly than vinyl when harvested properly. It doesn't leach any dangerous chemicals and can be disposed of with minimal environmental impact.
Cons
Cost
The main factor that gives homeowners pause when choosing between wood and vinyl is the cost. On average, wood costs between $5 and $10 per square foot installed, depending on the type and style of wood used. But many consider the tradeoffs in additional benefits and the quality of the appearance of wood siding worth the extra cost.
Pests
By the very nature of the material, wood siding is more susceptible to wood-eating pests like termites than vinyl, though there are treatment options that can help prevent this issue.
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