Siding is an important element of a home. Of course, it contributes a lot in terms of curb appeal, as it adds texture, color, and a sense of elegance to the exterior, but it contributes a lot in a practical sense, too. Siding exists to help prevent moisture damage. As rain rolls down your house’s exterior walls, the angle of the siding ensures that the water flows down instead of seeping into the walls. In addition, siding shields your home from wind, debris, and even insects.
There are many types of siding, but vinyl siding has become one of the most popular choices for homeowners because of its many benefits. It’s made of polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, which makes it highly durable and water resistant. Here are several other things you should know about vinyl siding:
- It can be installed horizontally or vertically. It’s more common to see vinyl siding (and siding in general) that’s installed horizontally. This offers a very traditional, beautiful look, but vinyl siding can also be installed vertically, perhaps to create a more modern look or to imitate the look of a farmhouse.
- It lasts for decades. Your vinyl siding should last anywhere from 20 to 40 years on average. Some types of vinyl siding can last longer, but it all depends on the quality of the material and how well you maintain it over the years.
- It’s easy to install. Vinyl siding is much easier to install than aluminum or wood siding, which means you can begin enjoying it sooner and you probably won’t have to pay as much for labor. Still, it’s always best to hire a professional for installation instead of attempting to do it yourself.