Is Vinyl Siding Better Than Wood?

Siding has a major effect on the look of your property, but its impact isn’t just cosmetic. Like a roof, it plays an essential role in defending your structure from the elements. What material is the right material for the job? Is vinyl siding better than wood siding?

Is Vinyl Siding Better Than Wood?

It’s a question that has been getting mixed results since vinyl siding was introduced in the 1950s: Is vinyl siding better than wood siding? Opinions vary. Some have changed over the years as advancements introduced better product options for those interested in vinyl. Many wisely insist that it depends on the situation, and you should always weigh the pros and cons of your specific circumstances to make the right choice. Exploring how the two materials compare can help you do that.

Appearance

The natural beauty of wood appeals to the senses. Many people appreciate the variety of wood grains, plank sizes, and layouts available. However, there are vinyl siding products on the market now that do an amazing job of mimicking the look and feel of wood. These products allow you to have the best of both worlds. Of course, vinyl siding products come in a huge range of colors and styles. With the selection available today, there’s something for everyone.

Lifespan

According to Fixr, wood siding that’s properly maintained has a lifespan of 20 to 40 years. However, skimping on maintenance can leave it vulnerable to rot or pest damage, which will shorten its life. In contrast, vinyl siding easily lasts 40 years or more with much less maintenance.

Maintenance

Why do people who say that they love the look of wood siding often choose another material? Many blame its maintenance requirements. The work begins right after installation. Wood siding must immediately be sealed. Then, it will need to be painted or stained every few years. Vinyl siding is much easier to handle. Since the color is baked all the way through, it never requires painting. Boards may sometimes detach or become damaged. When this happens, they’ll need to be replaced or repaired. However, general maintenance is as simple as rinsing down your vinyl siding with soapy water.

Durability

Wood has been used to protect homes for centuries. However, it has its weaknesses. For example, cycles of humidity and moisture may cause wood siding to swell and expand before drying out and shrinking back down. Over time, this can lead to warping and cracking. If there are gaps in the maintenance routine, rot or mold may set in. Termites and other wood-eating pests also find wood inviting. How does vinyl siding stack up? Vinyl isn’t vulnerable to moisture, so warping and rot aren’t issues. Pests and molds aren’t attracted to it because it isn’t a potential food source. However, extreme temperatures can be a problem. Homeowners will want to keep the grill and other heat sources at a safe distance to avoid damaging their siding. Extremely frigid temps may also cause vinyl siding to become brittle, which could lead to cracking.

Is vinyl siding better than wood siding? That’s a decision you’ll want to make after weighing the facts. Wood siding has a natural beauty but comes with greater maintenance demands. Vinyl siding offers a wide range of options that are attractive, easy to care for, and durable. For these reasons, many modern homeowners prefer vinyl, which we’re happy to offer at Liberty Home Solutions.

We know that remodeling is a big step, and our siding experts would be happy to assist you as you gather the facts you need to choose the right vinyl siding for your home. Contact us today to discuss your project or request a free in-home estimate.