Not only does vinyl siding replacement give your home a fresh new look, but it makes your home more resilient. This stylish upgrade provides a long-lasting, low-maintenance solution, impervious to weathering to protect your investment.
Durability, insulation and energy savings are key benefits of vinyl siding. It is engineered to endure the harshest elements, delivering proven insulation and energy cost-saving benefits.
Available in countless colors and styles options, homeowners can get the look they desire without the added cost and maintenance associated with other materials.
Whether to improve curb appeal, reinstating property value, or for other reasons, replacing your siding is well worth the consideration of any homeowner.
Understanding Vinyl and Fiber Cement
Walking through the options of siding materials available today can seem like an intimidating kaleidoscope. By knowing how vinyl and fiber cement siding differ, you can make your home’s exterior decision easier.
Vinyl siding is unique in its popularity as the low-maintenance alternative, lauded for its low-maintenance, go-anywhere charm. Made from PVC plastic resin, vinyl siding mimics the appearance of wood with its textured finishes, offering a classic look without the upkeep. Its amazing composition means it won’t rust, rot, or conduct electricity, making it a dependable option in every possible climate.
Homeowners looking to save some bucks will find an ally in vinyl siding. One reason is that it’s usually cheaper than other alternatives such as wood or brick. Vinyl siding provides an incredibly wide range of colors and profiles. This gives homeowners the ultimate freedom to customize their exteriors and harmonize their distinct individual style with the architectural style of their homes.
What Is Vinyl Siding?
Vinyl siding made with durable PVC plastic resin creates a strong, long-lasting, and weather-resistant shell for your home. This all-new material does an astonishingly accurate job of recreating the look of real, old wood.
It brings to life the beautiful textures of cedar and other natural wood grains. Its affordability draws people in, but its beauty keeps them there, allowing vinyl siding to provide a cost-effective solution that doesn’t sacrifice good looks.
Vinyl siding has an endless selection of colors and styles. With six beautiful color options to choose from, it fits any design preference—from modern to traditional—it’s that versatile.
What Is Fiber Cement Siding?
Fiber cement siding is one of the most durable building materials available. It’s produced using a mixture of sand, Portland cement, water, and cellulose fibers.
This uncommon assemblage leads to a siding product that is known for its incredible lifespan and fortitude. Fiber cement siding can be made to look like wood or stucco. This aesthetic flexibility increases your home’s curb appeal!
Its innate resistance to pests such as termites and woodpeckers further makes it a popular choice among homeowners. Its outstanding performance in extreme weather from hurricanes to high winds makes it all the more irresistible.
Reasons to Choose Fiber Cement
If you’re looking for a long-term cost saving investment, go with fiber cement siding. Its proven durability and longevity of the material can allow for life spans of over 50 years.
Its low maintenance needs are a big draw. You’ll experience way less headaches and long-term maintenance costs than with vinyl siding.
Perhaps the most important benefit of choosing fiber cement siding over vinyl is its fire-resistant properties, offering an extra level of protection for your home. This is because unlike vinyl, this material doesn’t catch fire when exposed to a direct flame, making it a better choice for safety.
Fiber cement siding offers the second best return on investment of any siding, with an average ROI around 75%. This makes it a savvy investment for boosting your home’s appeal and value.
Benefits of Fiber Cement Over Vinyl
If you’re looking at different types of siding for your home, you’ll find that fiber cement siding has many benefits in comparison to vinyl siding. To make an informed choice, understanding the differences in durability, maintenance, energy efficiency, design flexibility, and environmental impact is essential.
Here’s a comparative look at these aspects through a detailed table:
| Feature | Fiber Cement | Vinyl |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Resists hail, wind, moisture | Can crack or chip |
| Longevity | Often exceeds 50 years | Typically 20-30 years |
| Maintenance | Simple cleaning, low frequency | Requires more frequent cleaning |
| Energy Efficiency | Enhances insulation, reflective | Moderate |
| Design Flexibility | Paintable, various textures | Limited color options |
| Environmental Impact | Sustainable, recyclable | Higher environmental footprint |
1. Durability and Longevity
Unlike most siding materials, fiber cement siding is highly durable against severe weather, such as hurricanes, rainstorms, and high winds. Its strength to withstand impact from hail and moisture makes certain your home will have a long-lasting facade.
Contrary to vinyl siding, fiber cement doesn’t fade in color over time, maintaining a fresh and vibrant look year after year. Varied manufacturers provide warranties for fiber cement siding up to 50 years. This only further bolsters its creditability for durability.
2. Maintenance and Care
Fiber cement siding is easy to care for. Just a simple cleaning routine—garden hose and a soft bristle brush—can maintain its beauty for years to come.
For one, it is lower-maintenance than vinyl siding, which can need regular maintenance or replacement. Periodic inspections for both siding types are advisable to catch minor issues early, preventing them from becoming costly repairs.
3. Energy Efficiency
Beyond aesthetics, fiber cement siding helps homes become more energy efficient, lowering monthly energy bills and providing greater home comfort. Others offer reflective qualities that help improve buildings’ energy efficiency by deflecting sunlight.
Homeowners will benefit from tax credits and other incentives when they select energy-efficient siding. This compounds the financial benefit with the environmental benefits of making such a choice.
4. Design Flexibility
The aesthetic options with fiber cement siding are endless. Offered in multiple styles and finishes, the product offers a high level of creative customization.
Unlike vinyl, fiber cement can be painted a multitude of colors, allowing homeowners the flexibility to customize their home to suit their style. Its versatility to reproduce textures of cedar and other wood styles or provide stone and brick facades increases design flexibility.
5. Environmental Impact
Fiber cement siding is made from natural, sustainable materials, which reduces the environmental impact. At the end of its lifecycle, it is recyclable, making it a perfect fit for green building standards.
The production of vinyl siding creates excess waste, and its recyclability is questionable at best. This would be a smaller environmental benefit had it not been for fiber cement’s minimal installation waste.
Key Signs for Siding Replacement
Recognizing Wear and Tear
Though a great exterior choice for homeowners, vinyl siding, when left unchecked, can break down and lose the qualities that make it protective and beautiful. Knowing what signs to look for is an important step to keeping your home in the best shape possible. Here are some common indicators:
- Fading: Over time, exposure to sunlight can cause the siding to fade. This is not simply a cosmetic concern, but can indicate underlying material damage.
- These can occur due to environmental factors or physical impact. Superficial scratches are purely cosmetic. With deeper scratches, it is possible to scratch through to the underlying layers, which leaves the surface susceptible to further damage.
- Discoloration: Changes in color, whether patchy or widespread, can indicate underlying issues such as moisture retention or mold growth. These are obvious indications that the siding’s integrity has been compromised and may need to be replaced right away.
This is why routine visual inspections are crucial to identify these initial warnings. Taking notes or photos of any apparent problems is a good step to take for your own records. This is critical if you intend to seek out a pro in the future.
Identifying Structural Damage
Structural damage to vinyl siding can manifest in several ways:
- This can occur if the siding was improperly installed or has deteriorated over time.
- Panels that move and rattle in the wind can be more than just an annoyance. They might indicate deeper structural problems.
- Severe weather can lead to crushing and impactful damage. Hail damage alone touches about one-fifth of U.S. homeowners every year.
If these signs are ignored, it can lead to more serious issues, even compromising the home’s insulation and safety. It’s best to consult a professional whenever major structural damage is noticed to make sure the problem is addressed in a timely manner and repaired or replaced efficiently.
Noticing Energy Inefficiency
Siding is more than just a protective outer layer; it’s an important part of your home’s energy efficiency. Here are signs that your siding might be compromising your home’s energy performance:
- Increased Energy Bills: An unexpected increase in energy expenses could be a sign that your siding is failing to keep the heat in. This loss in heat makes your home much less energy efficient.
- If you feel drafts or cold spots in your home, don’t wait! These problems are signs that your siding may not be protecting your home’s interior from the outside temperatures.
- Conducting an energy audit can provide a more comprehensive assessment of your home’s efficiency, pinpointing areas that may require siding replacement.
Vinyl siding typically has a lifespan of 20-60 years. Climate, as well as how well it’s maintained, greatly affect how long it will truly last. This makes regular home inspections a must. They allow you to notice early signs of wear or structural damage, which keeps your siding working and lasting longer.
Causes of Vinyl Siding Damage
Homeowners have long favored vinyl siding as a cost-effective, low-maintenance option. The material is still relatively impervious to other elements. Here’s a breakdown of some common causes of vinyl siding damage:
Hurricanes, heavy rain, and severe storms are common culprits in siding damage. The standard expectation for siding is that it should hold up in 100 mph winds. Extreme weather can rip it off anyway.
Extreme heat waves can make vinyl siding literally melt, while extreme cold snaps might make it brittle enough to crack. UV rays from the sun can cause fading colors and weaken materials. This typically occurs within 10 to 15 years and can dramatically affect a home’s curb appeal.
Accidents happen, and vinyl siding is not immune to them. Vehicle collisions, lawn equipment mishaps, and even backyard little league games can dent or crack the siding. Even innocent outdoor activities near the house can accidentally result in damage.
Installing protective barriers such as fences or using natural topography or vegetation to funnel animals to safe crossings can mitigate these effects. Beyond material choice, it’s important to maintain a significant buffer space between siding and frequent outdoor activity.
Over time, vinyl siding can naturally degrade. However, with diligent maintenance, the majority of vinyl siding can endure 40-60+ years. Exposure to the elements and neglect can cut that lifespan dramatically.
Though the siding is certainly low-maintenance when compared to traditional wood panels, some level of care is required to keep the materials lasting. Homeowners can avoid damage by routinely inspecting their homes for signs of wear like fading, warping, or cracking and repair them immediately.
Weather and Climate Effects
Hurricanes and heavy rainfall associated with our changing climate can wreak havoc and destruction on all types of building materials, vinyl siding included. Even if your siding can survive 100 mile per hour winds, today’s more frequent stronger storms can damage vinyl siding.
UV rays are another big culprit, usually due to their ability to slowly but surely fade a siding’s color, which can seriously affect your home’s curb appeal. Landscaping can be a simple and beautiful solution to shielding your siding from unwelcome, biting winds. It serves as a natural barrier that protects it from excessive wind and sun exposure.
Physical Impacts and Accidents
Damage from accidents, such as vehicle collisions or lawn equipment accidents, is another frequent cause of siding repair. Backyard activities, such as hot grill accidents or children playing around the house, can damage vinyl siding.
Keeping an adequate distance between the siding and all of the above is key. With protective barriers, double the risk of accidental impacts is eliminated.
Age and Material Degradation
Age matters—a lot with vinyl siding. Vinyl siding typically has a life expectancy of 40 to 60 years. Weather exposure, improper installation, and lack of maintenance can all readily cut its lifespan short.
By routinely monitoring the condition of the siding and taking immediate action as problems arise, one can largely preserve the durability of the siding for years to come.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replace Siding
Replacing your vinyl siding can feel daunting. If you approach the project in small, manageable bites, it’s quite doable. Here are the key steps you’ll need to take, the tools you’ll need to have on hand, and the safety precautions you’ll want to keep in mind.
First, clear debris and obstacles. Make sure you have clear access to the siding and a safe working environment.
Next, gather your tools: a zip tool, pry bar, hammer, and additional items like a tape measure and safety goggles.
You will also need replacement vinyl siding, roofing nails, and a few extra panels to account for mishaps.
Finally, use a zip tool to carefully remove damaged pieces. Remove old siding nails, taking care not to damage adjacent boards. Align and lock new siding into place, ensuring proper nail spacing.
Essential Tools for Replacement
Having the right tools and materials on hand will be key to a seamless vinyl siding replacement. Start with a zip tool to unclip the damaged siding panels.
A pry bar and hammer are absolutely necessary for pulling nails and fastening new siding. Always have a tape measure handy to ensure exact fits.
Remember to wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from flying debris! Having extra tools like a utility knife or a ladder can help tackle unexpected challenges, making the process more efficient and less stressful.
Required Materials for the Project
When it comes to replacing vinyl siding, high-quality materials are a must to go the distance and perform well. Here’s a checklist:
- Replacement vinyl siding
- Roofing nails
- Weather-resistant barrier
Vinyl siding is extremely durable, with a lifespan of 20–40 years. However, vinyl is brittle, so care must be taken during handling and installation.
Durable siding will hold up well through shifting or extreme climates, and local suppliers will usually have the best price and availability. Vinyl siding is the least expensive material, usually costing between $3 and $5 per square foot, making it a great option for budget-conscious homeowners.
Detach Damaged Vinyl Siding
To take out the damaged siding, first use a zip tool to unlock the panel. Insert the tool into the seam with the pointed edge facing up, then gently lift and slide the tool along the seam to release without damaging adjacent panels.
Protective gear, including heavy-duty gloves and goggles, are important to protect against cut edges. As Robert Croteau implores, if you need to, cut away the surrounding materials to stop the damage in its tracks.
Extract Nails from Old Siding
Removing nails requires a flat pry bar. Carefully pry up under each nail without damaging adjacent panels.
To prevent injury, a simple nail magnet can quickly pick up dropped or left-behind nails, ensuring the final worksite is safe and clean.
Fit and Secure New Siding
Installing the new siding takes some precision. Fit the new panel in line with the others so it locks in tight for a continuous look.
Getting nail spacing right is important to leave room for thermal expansion and contraction, or tiles may buckle. Having extra panels on hand will save time if one cracks while being installed.
Installation of the composite panels should only take 15 minutes per panel.
Cost Considerations for Siding Replacement
When considering a vinyl siding replacement, cost should be a top priority. Now, let’s make a side-by-side comparison table for a complete comparison. It will illustrate the difference between DIY costs versus hiring professionals for siding replacement.
This allows you to determine if you’ll be able to complete the project on your own or if it’s a job that you’re better off hiring out.
| Task | DIY Costs | Professional Costs |
|---|---|---|
| Materials | $2 to $10 per square foot | $2 to $10 per square foot |
| Tools and Equipment | $100 to $500 (one-time purchase) | Included in labor costs |
| Labor | Personal time investment | $3.70 to $5 per square foot |
| Potential Errors | Higher due to inexperience | Lower due to expertise |
| Total Cost for 2,000 sq ft | $4,000 to $20,000 (approximate) | $6,370 to $18,250 |
If you’re considering siding replacement, know that the materials and installation method you choose can make a big difference on cost. No wonder vinyl siding has become the most common home exterior—it’s cheap and easy.
For a typical 1,000-square-foot home, homeowners should expect to pay anywhere from $2,500 to $10,750. Of those with a 4,000-square-foot home, costs could range from $10,000 to $43,000. Vinyl is approximately 11% less expensive than cedar siding and requires no frequent repainting, providing additional savings.
Whatever your plan, it’s always a good idea to budget some money for unexpected expenses when replacing your siding. Costs can vary widely depending on material availability and seasonal labor rates.
Don’t forget to take into account any repairs required for the underlying structure. Don’t forget to factor in the transportation costs for materials, so you’re not caught off guard by unexpected costs.
Factors Influencing Overall Costs
There are many factors that influence the cost of siding replacement.
What you need to know is that material choice is the biggest factor, with vinyl costing much less than most materials. Labor rates factor in heavily too, driven by both season and local market conditions.
Realistically, pricing can vary based on the size of your home and the complexity of the project.
It’s a simple fact that larger homes come with bigger costs, and complex designs or structural repairs require additional manpower, increasing expense.
Getting several quotes from contractors is recommended to make sure you get the best price possible. This practice ensures that you understand the diverse range of prices out there.
It allows you to select the contractor that offers the greatest value over the long term.
Aluminum Siding Replacement Costs
Aluminum siding is a high-quality, long-lasting, and cost-effective alternative to vinyl. When covering a 2,000-square-foot home, aluminum siding provides one of the most economical choices.
Its long life expectancy and minimal maintenance needs only add to its appeal. Though vinyl tends to be cheaper in initial costs, it can be more costly long-term with the need for more frequent replacement.
Watch for extra costs with aluminum siding installation, like the removal of existing siding and disposal fees. These can significantly increase the cost and should be taken into account when planning your budget.
Conclusion
Taking everything we’ve discussed in our deep dive into siding options into consideration, it’s clear that fiber cement is the superior option to vinyl. It provides the look of wood with the performance of vinyl, standing up to whatever nature throws its way. If your vinyl siding is warping, fading, cracked and/or chipping it may be time to replace it. The replacement process can seem intimidating, but our step-by-step replacement guide breaks it down, making it easy. Each step is laid out in easy-to-follow detail, ensuring your DIY project is simple and successful. Cost is always a consideration, and knowing the cost up front will allow you to plan your budget accordingly. Remember, when you invest in high quality siding you’re increasing your home’s value and curb appeal. Want to make your home the envy of the neighborhood? Take the plunge on this capital project, with the assurance that you’re investing in an option that saves money over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the advantages of fiber cement over vinyl siding?
Fiber cement, a great alternative to traditional vinyl siding, is more durable and fire resistant than vinyl. This durable option stands up to harsh climates while providing superior insulation that helps cut energy bills. Additionally, fiber cement is highly sustainable and can replicate various textures, enhancing the curb appeal of any home improvements.
How do I know if my siding needs replacement?
Check for cracks, warping, or signs of mold on your current siding. Fading color and higher energy bills are other indicators that your vinyl siding panels may be due for replacement. If your vinyl siding is more than two decades old, it’s time to replace it with high quality product to better protect your home and boost curb appeal.
What typically causes damage to vinyl siding?
Vinyl siding is often very vulnerable to more extreme weather, such as hail or high winds. UV light from sun exposure contributes to fading and brittleness, while improper installation and physical impacts can lead to moisture damage in siding panels.
What are the basic steps to replace siding?
The first step in your siding project is to tear off the existing siding. Next, check and fix the wall beneath it. After that, apply a weather-resistant barrier, then nail or screw on the new siding panels, ensuring proper alignment and sealing.
How much does siding replacement cost?
Replacement costs for siding projects differ depending on the material chosen, such as vinyl siding panels or fiber cement, and the local labor market. While fiber cement may be a more expensive option upfront, it offers long-term savings, making it a durable option for homeowners.
Can I replace vinyl siding myself?
Yes, you can absolutely replace vinyl siding panels on your own with the right tools and guidance. However, for quality results and to avoid making expensive mistakes, hiring a professional siding installer is always recommended, particularly for intricate siding projects.
How long does fiber cement siding last?
When well maintained, fiber cement siding can last more than half a century. This durable option stands up to rot, pests, and fire, delivering enduring beauty and protection as a siding replacement material for long-term value to your home.
