According to a 2019 study by the United States Census Bureau, vinyl siding is one of the most popular choices in the country for new home exteriors — especially in the Mid-Atlantic.
Why is it so popular? The reasons may actually lie in the answer to another question: How long does vinyl siding last?
While some homeowners may choose vinyl siding for its attractive appearance, affordability and ease of installation, others may be most concerned with their siding’s durability over time. Fortunately, vinyl is one of the longest-lasting types of siding.
So, exactly how long does vinyl siding last? Below, we discuss its lifespan, list factors that can affect its longevity and provide tips for keeping it looking and functioning its best.
According to Siding Authority, vinyl siding can last anywhere from 20 to 40 years. Some other types of siding can last as long with proper maintenance, but comparatively, vinyl siding generally needs the least amount of maintenance to remain in top condition for 20 years or more.
How long should vinyl siding last? With minimal but proper maintenance, it should last toward the longer end of the estimated lifespan mentioned above.
How long vinyl siding lasts depends on a few factors:
- How well it’s maintained. With vinyl siding, maintenance primarily involves periodic washing and inspecting for signs of damage. It’s always easier — and cheaper — to repair an issue while it’s small rather than waiting until it becomes something larger.
- Its quality. The quality of vinyl siding primarily depends on its thickness, or grade. Thicker siding is more expensive than thinner siding, but it can be more attractive, have a longer warranty and last years beyond thinner-grade material. Furthermore, grades can range anywhere from .35 millimeter to .50 millimeter, so a knowledgeable decision can make a huge difference in the siding’s durability and your satisfaction.
- How well it’s installed. Highly skilled, professional installation is key to ensuring the siding you select is as durable as possible. This can mean repairing any water or other damage to the home before installation, using corrosion-resistant nails and taping joints.
- Weather conditions. High winds, hail and other extreme weather conditions can lead to punctures and compromise the siding’s integrity. Extreme temperatures can lead to warping, and too much direct sunlight can cause the color to fade. Homeowners should replace broken panels as soon as possible to avoid unnecessary damage to their homes from water or pests. Fortunately, damaged panels are typically easy to replace.
How to Maintain Vinyl Siding
One notable perk of vinyl siding is that you can choose to paint it, but you definitely don’t have to — at least not until it begins to fade after many years. If you’re looking to avoid paining your siding for as long as possible, it’s best to know how to properly maintain it to keep it looking good.
As previously stated, maintaining this type of siding primarily involves cleaning and inspecting.
- Cleaning: Siding Authority recommends homeowners wash vinyl siding approximately once per year. You can use a power washer or a garden hose with a soft-bristle brush or cloth. If using a power washer, make sure not to spray water upwards to avoid getting water in between the siding planks. Cleaning solutions of 30% vinegar and 70% water can also be helpful when dealing with especially dirty spots.
- Inspecting: It’s also important to closely inspect your siding on a periodic basis to look for any signs of warping, breaks, cracks or tears. This way, you can find potential problem spots and replace individual planks before water or pests have a chance to damage the parts of your home the siding is meant to protect.
Contact Our Vinyl Siding Experts Today
At Thompson Creek, we believe vinyl siding is an excellent choice for any Mid-Atlantic home. We offer six styles in a multitude of attractive colors and use high quality, professional materials to ensure homeowners enjoy the longest life possible for their home’s new exterior. To learn the answer to the question “how long should vinyl siding last” on your home, contact one of our vinyl siding experts today for a free consultation.