Should I Replace Aluminum Siding with Vinyl Siding?
The exterior of your home plays a significant role in its overall appearance, and siding is one of the most important components. If your home was built before the 1990s, there is a very good chance that it has aluminum siding installed on it. This is because in the 1940s, aluminum siding emerged as a cost-effective option for homeowners seeking to cover their homes. Thanks to its lightweight, fire-resistant, and relatively long-lasting properties, aluminum siding quickly became a popular choice for homeowners. Moreover, it offered unique benefits that were not available with other materials at the time – and it gave homes a new and modern look.
The popularity of aluminum siding began to wane in the 1980s, however, due to the emergence of vinyl siding – which did everything aluminum siding did but better. Today vinyl siding is the most popular type of siding used in siding replacement projects today. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau in 2020; vinyl siding took up about 30% of the home siding replacement projects while aluminum siding fell into the “other” category, taking up just 2%. In this article we will discuss the pros and cons of replacing your aluminum siding with vinyl siding from the perspective of a local siding company that has been in the replacement siding business more than 20 years.
Pros of Replacing Aluminum Siding with Vinyl Siding
Increased Curb Appeal: Vinyl siding is available in a wide range of colors, styles, and textures, allowing you to customize the look of your home to suit your preferences. The result is an attractive, eye-catching exterior that can enhance your home’s curb appeal and value.
Durability: Vinyl siding is designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, such as high winds and heavy rain, making it a durable option that can last for decades. It’s also resistant to moisture and rot, which means it won’t warp, rust or corrode over time.
Low Maintenance: Unlike aluminum siding, vinyl siding doesn’t require painting, staining, or sealing. It’s easy to clean with a power washer, and it won’t scratch, chip, or fade over time, so you can enjoy a beautiful, low-maintenance exterior.
- Energy Efficiency: Vinyl replacement siding is an energy-efficient option that can help reduce your heating and cooling costs. It can be insulated to increase its R-value, and it helps prevent air leaks, which can keep your home more comfortable all year round.
Cons of Replacing Aluminum Siding with Vinyl Siding
Cost: While vinyl siding is generally less expensive than other types of siding, such as wood or brick, it can be more expensive than aluminum siding. The cost will depend on the quality of the vinyl and the size of your home. This is increasingly becoming less true as aluminum siding gets phased out of mass-production relative to vinyl siding.
Environmental Impact: Vinyl siding is made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is a non-renewable resource. The manufacturing process for vinyl siding also produces pollutants, which can harm the environment. However, many manufacturers are taking steps to reduce their environmental impact.
Vinyl Siding Quality: Vinyl siding, like everything in life, comes in varying degrees of quality. It is important that you are using a quality vinyl siding such as Alside Charter Oak siding or Alside Prodigy siding in your siding replacement project, else you may not be capturing the benefits of vinyl over aluminum.
Conclusion
Replacing your aluminum siding with vinyl siding can be a great choice for many homeowners. It offers numerous benefits such as increased curb appeal, durability, and low maintenance. Not all vinyl siding is alike, however, and low quality vinyl siding can actually perform worse than aluminum siding. Ultimately, the decision to replace your siding should be based on your individual needs and preferences. Consulting with a local siding company can help you determine the best choice for your home and budget.
When selecting a siding company, it’s important to choose one with experience and a good reputation. They can provide expert advice on the pros and cons of different siding options and help you choose the best one for your home.
In conclusion, replacing your aluminum siding with vinyl siding has both pros and cons. By considering the benefits and drawbacks, you can make an informed decision about whether it’s the right choice for your home. If you decide to go with vinyl siding, be sure to select a quality product and hire a reputable siding company for the installation.
Replacement Siding FAQs
Q. Can I install vinyl siding over my existing aluminum siding?
A. It is generally not recommended for longevity and warranty reasons, however it’s possible to install vinyl siding over existing aluminum siding. However, it’s important to ensure that the aluminum siding is in good condition and doesn’t have any damage or rot.
Q. How long does vinyl siding last?
A. Vinyl siding can last for 20 to 40 years, depending on the quality of the vinyl and the installation. Proper maintenance can also help extend its lifespan.
Q. Is vinyl siding a good choice for colder climates?
A. Yes, vinyl siding is a great choice for colder climates. It’s designed to withstand extreme weather conditions and can help insulate your home to keep it warmer during the winter months.
