Vinyl siding has become the most popular wall cladding for many types of home architecture because of its low cost, durability and wide array of styles. It was the leading residential siding product sold in 2010, according to a recent report by business consulting firm Principia Partners.
Vertical vinyl siding offers design options
Many homeowners choose vertical vinyl siding because the vertical view lines of the siding enhances the architectural beauty of their homes. It can be used to set off one section of the home, or to clad the entire house.
There are many different manufacturers of vinyl siding--CertainTeed and Owens Corning are two of the largest in the United States. Determining which siding is best for your home-renovation project requires careful examination of your remodel budget coupled with anticipated length of stay in your residence.
How to pick the best vertical vinyl siding
Vinyl siding is sold by grade. Generally, the thicker the siding the the better it resists cracking or buckling and the longer it lasts, the Principia report says. But many homeowners are not looking 10 to 20 years in the future. For them, a lower-grade vinyl siding might satisfy their needs and fit within budgetary constraints.
If cost is not an overriding factor, by all means choose a higher-grade vinyl siding; it is likely to look better and certainly will be more durable than lower grades.
Cost estimates for vinyl siding typically range from $1.60 to $2.50 per square foot, depending on the grade. Savvy homeowners can cut costs significantly by installing the siding themselves--vinyl siding's popularity is due in part to its easy installation.
