How Long Does Vinyl Siding Last? What You Need to Know

How Long Does Vinyl Siding Last? What You Need to Know Blog Cover.

Vinyl siding is a popular option for many homeowners because of its versatility, durability, and aesthetic capabilities. But before you look into replacing your siding, you may wonder – how long does vinyl siding last?

Of course, you’ll want to find the most durable siding that fits your home’s needs. However, many factors can affect the life expectancy of vinyl siding. That’s why Minnesota Exteriors is here to help you learn more about durable siding solutions and when to replace siding.

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How Long Does Vinyl Siding Last?

On average, the lifespan of vinyl siding is anywhere from 30-40 years. Many factors may affect this, depending on your location, the weather, and the condition of the siding.

Additionally, if the building is a commercial property that generally sees more wear and tear than a single-family home, this can also affect vinyl siding lifespan.

Factors That Impact Vinyl Siding Longevity

If you are considering having vinyl siding installed for your home, it’s important to be aware of the following factors that can impact your vinyl siding house, such as:

  • Quality of Materials: The quality of the materials used to make the vinyl siding can affect how long it protects your home. Siding made with subpar materials will not offer your home as much protection as siding made with top-of-the-line products.
  • Installation Techniques: Hiring a top-tier vinyl siding installation company will ensure your home is firmly protected from issues that may later arise from inferior installation, such as water leaks, pests, and warping.
  • Regular Maintenance and Cleaning: Conducting regular maintenance can help you create the longest-lasting siding for your home. Checking it a few times a year for damage or holes, along with cleaning it regularly, is imperative to extend your vinyl’s lifespan. Painting your house siding with the right kind of paint can help it stay protected for longer.
  • Environmental Factors: Living in a sunny, hot climate will make your vinyl siding warp or fade much faster than if you live in areas with more moderate temperatures.

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Signs It’s Time For Replacement

Knowing when to replace vinyl siding plays an important part in the overall upkeep and maintenance of your home. If you notice any of the following signs, it may be time to invest in some new siding for your home:

Water Damage

An isue that can quickly get out of control is water damage. It can even happen from the smallest hole in your siding. Water damage can lead to mold, mildew, and structural damage under the siding. If you see signs of fungus, mold, fading, or multiple weakened boards, this indicates that moisture has leaked under your siding.

Damage or Broken Siding

While vinyl is one of the longest-lasting siding for homes, that doesn’t mean it’s still not susceptible to damage. Storms, high winds, hail, pests, and animals can all damage your vinyl siding. This, in turn, compromises your home’s protection and aesthetic value.

Some signs that your siding may be damaged include holes, multiple damaged boards, chips, or dents.

Fading

Fading is a more obvious sign that your siding needs replacement. This generally occurs when your home is subject to high amounts of sunlight and heat, leading not only to an unsightly exterior but to the degradation of your siding’s ability to protect your home from UV rays.

Warping and Buckling

Warping or buckling boards may be a sign that your home has water damage, the foundation is settling, or that your home experiences high winds and intense weather fluctuations. Additionally, improperly installed siding can lead to this issue. If you see any warped or buckled boards, then it may be time to contact a siding contractor to replace your home’s siding.

Higher Utility Bills

Siding is supposed to protect your home from temperature changes and airflow issues. If you suddenly notice an increase in your utility bill and can’t figure out another reason for it, this may be a sign to either repair or replace your home’s siding.

MEI can handle any project from siding, to roofing, windows, and more for your home’s exterior.

Vinyl Siding Compared to Other Siding Options

Vinyl siding, while one of the most popular and durable choices for your home, is not the only option out there. The siding material can affect durability, maintenance, cost, and more. Additionally, the aesthetics of each material can impact your siding choice, as some types of siding will give your home the look and feel you’re going for.

Some of the most popular choices of siding – along with how they compare to vinyl siding – include:

Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement siding is one of the most durable choices for your home. In fact, it can last for over 50 years if properly maintained. However, this option consists of a much more difficult installation process due to its weight. Fiber cement siding also often costs more than vinyl, and homeowners need to properly maintain and repaint it once every 10-15 years to ensure its longevity.

Engineered Wood

Wood adds a beautiful, aesthetic appeal to your home’s exterior. Engineered wood is also easily amendable, meaning you can paint or stain it multiple times to fit the look you want for your home. However, it is an expensive option that requires high amounts of upkeep and maintenance to ensure its durability. It is also vulnerable to pests, fire, and water damage.

Wood siding generally lasts anywhere from 20-30 years.

Steel 

Steel siding often provides the same lifespan as fiber cement siding, and it is a great option for protection against the elements. However, while this makes it a great choice for commercial properties, the aesthetics of steel often don’t lend themselves well to residential homes. However, steel is a more expensive option than vinyl siding.

Brick Siding

One of the most beautiful siding options is brick to give your home a classic appeal. Brick is durable and properly insulates your home from the elements, which is why it’s been such a popular choice over the years. However, vinyl siding is much more cost-effective, and while brick may be aesthetic, it doesn’t let you change up your home’s curb appeal or style if you want a spruce. Repairs for this type of siding often tend to be costly.

Composite Siding

Composite siding is generally made up of several materials, making it a customizable option for many homeowners. It also provides great protection from the elements and varying temperatures. However, it also is costly to maintain and repair due to its singular construction and design, so ensure that you install it in the style you want and that a professional company undertakes the project.

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How to Prolong Your Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding continues to be a great option for homeowners for many reasons, which is why it’s important to know how to prolong its lifespan. Some of the best ways to ensure your vinyl stays protected for decades to come include:

  • Keep Siding Clean: It’s important to wash your siding a few times a year to get rid of any dirt or mildew. You can do this by utilizing a power washer, washing it by hand, or by hiring a company to come out and ensure it’s in tip-top shape.
  • Regularly Inspect It: Regularly inspecting your siding will let you notice problems as soon as they arise. This way, you won’t get caught off guard if pest infestations or water damage suddenly affect your home and cause problems with your siding.
  • Make Repairs Quickly: If there are any issues with your vinyl siding, address them promptly. This way, the rest of your siding can continue to protect your home and the damage won’t potentially spread to cause a costlier issue in the future.

FREE No-Risk Siding Inspection and Estimate With Minnesota Exteriors

Our team at Minnesota Exteriors specializes in renovating and replacing your home’s siding, along with other exterior needs such as roofs, windows, doors, and gutters. We have over 75 years of experience, meaning that you won’t have to worry about us getting the job done right. Your home will stay protected for decades to come when you contact our team for vinyl siding or other exterior needs. Vinyl siding provides affordable, eco-friendly, and energy-efficient options for your home.

Reach out to us today for a free quote and learn more about how we can help you create the home of your dreams.