When maintaining the exterior of a home, it’s important to take note of the home’s siding. It’s not only important how the siding looks, but also what the material is made out of. Two of the materials most used regarding siding are wood and vinyl. Are you unsure of which one you’d like to use? Let’s break down the pros and cons of each material that fits your home’s exterior.
Advantages of Wood Siding
Wood siding has a beautiful, aesthetically pleasing look to the eye. Wood would be the best choice if you’re going for a warm classic style for your home. It’s environmentally friendly due to its biodegradable renewable resources. It has natural thermal properties that help keep your home cold in the summer and warm in the winter.
Wood is slightly more versatile and can be found in different plank sizes. It is also easier to repair than vinyl, so if it gets damaged, it is easy to replace the individual board without affecting all of the siding.
Disadvantages of Wood Siding
While wood might be easier to repair than vinyl, it does have high maintenance requirements like regular painting, staining, and sealing. In terms of cost, wood takes longer to install which means it will cost more than installing vinyl. Reports share that wood siding costs about $10,500 to $22,500 nationally (states may vary). This kind of siding is also more prone to wood-eating insects and pests which can disturb your home’s exterior.
Advantages of Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is highly durable and can deal with harsh weather conditions including extreme heat and cold. It’s also faster and easier to install which means it is more cost-efficient and time-efficient. Vinyl also comes in different colors and styles which means you can make the exterior of your home unique to your needs and wants.
Disadvantages of Vinyl Siding
While vinyl is more durable than wood in harsh conditions, it is greatly affected by temperature. In extremely cold and hot weather, vinyl can grow brittle and eventually crack. It also is not helpful for the environment because of its plastic properties. During its manufacturing process, the plastic can release toxic chemicals and use large amounts of energy. When vinyl siding is damaged, you need to replace the entire panel which can cost more time and more money.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you’re looking for siding that is cost-effective for long-term value and more durability, vinyl siding is the best choice. However, if you’re thinking more about aesthetics and the environmental impact, wood would work better.
Both wood and vinyl siding have their advantages and disadvantages. Whichever siding material you decide, Liberty Painting & Siding will help you implement it into your home’s exterior. Make sure to examine the pros and cons of both materials and how your decision might affect the look, longevity, and durability of your home. Which siding will you choose for your home?
