subject: Why Vinyl Siding Is An Excellent Choice [print this page] Vinyl siding is a way to cover the exterior of your home while weather proofing and making the home more energy efficient. There is a large selection of colors and trims available for the consumer to chose. The outcome is a beautiful home with charming curb appeal, no matter what part of the country you live in.
Vinyl siding is the number one siding choice of people in the United States and Canada. When it was first invented, the colors were done manually. If there was not enough siding in the batch to do a project, another batch would be made. Matching the original color was difficult and sometimes impossible. Quite often you would see a home sided in 2 tones of the same color, one being darker or lighter than the original color that was chosen.
When it is made today, the color is mixed with computer guided sensors, so now it is easier to get more siding if it is needed. Due to consistency and quality of the current manufactured product, replacement of a damaged area is much easier. The formulation and installation equipment have improved over the years. It is now faster and easier to install and more resistant to impact.
When installing this siding on a home it contributes to the R-Value of the home. The energy savings from the installation of the siding is noticeable when the heating or electricity bills arrive. Over the last decade it has grown in popularity. This is due to the durability, ease of maintenance, and versatility of the product.
The Vinyl Siding Institute regulates the manufacturing and installation of the product by installation certified contractors. The Institute provides programs for the contractors to attend and become certified.
Vinyl siding is available in many thicknesses.
The thicker the vinyl, the fewer tendencies to crack in very cold weather when bumped or struck by another object. Thicker vinyl usually cost more, but they are more rigid and the aesthetic appeal and look after they are installed is greater. The thicker siding is also more flexible and adds to its durability and life expectancy.The formula varies from one manufacture to another may vary.
It still has two layers of PVC making up the product. The top layer is weatherable capstock, and counts for about one third of the product. The weatherable capstock is where the pigment (color) and UV resistant material lye. Substrate is the name of the bottom layer and is contains ground limestone. The limestone reduces the cost while balancing the weatherable comstock. Lubricants are also added to aid in manufacturing.
Vinyl siding has its own fastening and locking system which is coupled with nails to fasten the product to the wall. When installed on the exterior of a home by a certified installation contractor, it should give the home owner more time and money to pursue other things.
Care should be taken when choosing color as it is going to be the same for many years. Usually the highest grade, which is the most expensive, costs more but is most resistant to fading.
