Selecting the right exterior siding can give the perfect finishing touch to your abode. You need a material that looks good, but you also need something that can withstand the test of time. How long does siding last, and what material provides the best return on investment?
How Long Does Siding Last?
When you think about the things that protect your house from harm, you might think about a fence or an alarm system. However, you should also be thinking about the role that your exterior siding plays in protecting your home from the elements. After all, your siding has to stand up to dangerous weather, unexpected impacts, and other potential issues while keeping your family safe and sound. Reliable siding can make your life easier and give you peace of mind. So, how long does siding last? It depends on the material used and the maintenance you’re ready to put into it.
Aluminum Siding
Aluminum siding was once a popular form of exterior siding, but it’s fallen out of favor due to the maintenance required to keep it looking its best. Aluminum siding is indeed a sturdy option. If it’s installed correctly and well-maintained, it can last for 30 years or more. Unfortunately, the enamel that coats aluminum siding will start to wash away after a decade, requiring significant touch-ups.
And that’s not the only maintenance that aluminum needs. Aluminum siding is prone to pitting and fading, as well as dings and damage from outside sources. Finding the correct color match can be challenging if sections need to be replaced. Aluminum siding must also be repainted regularly, which is an additional headache. If your heart is set on aluminum and you’re willing to put the work in, you can get decades of use out of it. Most homeowners look elsewhere.
Wood Siding
Wood siding might fit the bill if you’re looking for a material that needs less maintenance and still provides a classic look. Wood isn’t vulnerable to the same damages that aluminum siding can experience. If wood siding is installed and maintained correctly, it can last 25 years or more.
Unfortunately, the maintenance required to get decades of use out of wood siding is also significant. Wood siding needs to be regularly inspected for evidence of mold or pests, and fixing those issues can be difficult and pricey. Because wood contracts and expands, homeowners often have to re-caulk the areas around doors and windows on a seasonal basis. Wood siding must also be refinished and waterproofed every five years to maintain its appearance. For homeowners who need an alternative, products like Liberty Oak Energy Elite vinyl siding provides the look and feel of wood siding without the maintenance burden.
Vinyl Siding
For homeowners who want a long-lasting and maintenance-free type of siding, vinyl is usually the best option. Industry experts will tell you that vinyl is America’s most popular siding material for a reason. Unlike wood or aluminum, vinyl does not dent or rot, making it less vulnerable to damage. No repainting or touching up is required. You must clean it occasionally and take care of any mold or mildew you spot with some detergent and vinegar. In return, vinyl siding will last several decades with very little maintenance. Popular products like our Liberty Architectural vinyl siding even come with a lifetime guarantee!
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How long does siding last? It depends on what you buy and how you take care of it. You’ll get decades of maintenance-free use if you purchase vinyl siding from Liberty Home Solutions.
If you’re ready to transform your home with vinyl siding, turn to the experts at Liberty Home Solutions. We’re delighted to offer our friends and neighbors multiple siding options in and around Springfield, Missouri. Contact us today to set up a free in-home estimate and explore the many possibilities.