The last time you strolled down your street, did you notice the paint on your neighbors’ houses cracking, chipping, peeling, and fading? Clearly, they don’t have vinyl siding! Because if they had chosen vinyl AND picked the right product and installer, none of those issues would be a concern. Quality vinyl siding doesn’t fade the way paint does. It may fade after decades of exposure to the elements but even after time, it holds up. Often, the fade factor is so slight that it can’t be detected by the naked eye.
Back in the 60s, vinyl siding promised to protect your home and lower your utility bill. But best of all, you’d never need to paint your house again. But back then, especially if you chose a dark color, you’d watch it fade away pretty quickly. That was then. Manufacturers today use polymer blends to increase the performance and durability of the material. The polymer blend is fused onto a polyvinyl chloride substrate, rather than painted on or added later. This material is tough and long-wearing, and comprises 10 to 15 percent of the thickness of the siding. It can’t be peeled or scraped off and won’t fade, flake, or chalk. Some manufacturers also incorporate infrared-reflecting pigments to minimize heat buildup, particularly in darker-color sidings. This helps to reflect heat away from your home and prevent fading and warping.
Vinyl siding that has been approved by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) International meets standards for color fastness and has passed third party testing requirements. Look for certified vinyl siding with color retention and the ASTM label stamped on the product box. You can find more than 400 certified colors.
There are two types of warranties you should receive for any vinyl siding project: a manufacturer’s warranty and a contractor’s warranty. You want both. The contractor’s warranty covers labor and installation issues. A manufacturer’s warranty is supplied by the company that makes the siding material and guarantees your siding against any defects. To ensure the warranty is in full effect, you may need to work with a certified contractor or installer. Look for super polymer vinyl siding that resists fading, chalking, cracking, peeling, and thermal expansion and contraction—and is backed by a lifetime limited warranty. A lifetime limited warranty refers to the original purchaser, for as long as the own the house. Some companies go further and allow the warranty to transfer to a new owner and stay in force, prorated, for 50 years!
Unlike wood shingles, vinyl siding is low maintenance. If you notice accumulated dirt, just hose down the siding with water, a mild dish detergent, and a soft bristle brush. Rinse the soap before it dries. Any mildew can be removed using a solution of 30% vinegar and 70% water.
Vinyl siding protects and beautifies your home. It comes in a wide variety of styles and colors, is durable, dent and fade resistant, insect proof, and it can help save on heating and cooling costs. According to the National Association of Realtors’ 2022 Home Remodeling Impact Report, upgrading your home with vinyl siding will increase your home’s value by 82% of the project’s cost.
Want to learn more about vinyl siding? NOW Remodeling can address all your vinyl siding needs. We use ProVia products that come with a 50-year warranty that even includes a labor warranty from the manufacturer! * Are we near you? We have offices in Boise, Spokane, and the Tri-Cities. Request your free quote today.
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