Vinyl ($6.50-12.50/sf)
The technical name – polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is always shortened to “vinyl.” It’s a heavy-duty plastic base, blended with special additives to resist color fading and protect it from UV rays and is typically molded to resemble traditional wood cladding such as lap, board and batten, or shingle siding. While vinyl is not environmentally friendly, it is an affordable option that is readily available from a variety of manufacturers. Vinyl also requires comparatively little maintenance over its useful life (approximately 20-30 years).
Maintenance typically includes light brushing and rinsing with water. However, vinyl has a long history of notable issues, including warping in hot temperatures, cracking in cold temperatures, and fading color from environmental exposure.
Cedar ($9.50-15.50/sf)
Cedar is known for its traditional look, natural appeal, noise abatement, insulation, and longevity. No wonder it has a long history of use in the Pacific Northwest! While cedar does not have any resins or pitch, it does have tannin. This is abhorrent to rodents and insects. Termites, carpenter ants, and mice will not be interested in your cedar shingles. That does not mean it is bug-proof, though. Over the years, the wood loses much of its tannin. And, while it is rot-resistant, it is not rot-proof. Maintenance in keeping the siding clean and sealed is important to prevent this.
Cedar material prices are moderate, and installation costs are generally reasonable. However, cedar requires regular maintenance if it is to reach the full term of its expected useful life (approximately 30-40 years). Owners should be aware that maintaining a robust, continuous paint or stain layer is critical for long-term performance of cedar siding and must budget accordingly.
Fiber-Cement ($8.50-$14.50)
Fiber-cement siding is a composite cement material reinforced with cellulose fibers. Fiber-cement siding manufacturer’s offer both lap and panel style options. Manufacture, transport, and installation costs make fiber-cement a relatively expensive option. However, if properly installed and maintained, fiber-cement performs well over its useful life (approximately 50-60 years), providing a solid return on investment.
Maintenance regimens should include routine repainting, as well as monitoring and replacing sealants as needed. Homeowners with fiber-cement cladding systems or those that are considering converting to this product should be attentive to budget, both for the initial cost of materials and ongoing maintenance.
ADVANTAGES
` Low cost/budget friendly ` Versatile ` Low maintenance/will not rot ` Colors Weather and insect resistant ` Good return on investment (ROI) ` Top notch R-Value (with foam back option)
DISADVANTAGES
` Disliked by some as looking too ”plastic like” ` Noticeable seams - due to poor installation ` Raw vinyl does not hold up well to UV rays ` Fire or concentrated high heat near material causes melting
` Less thicker varieties can dent somewhat easily ` Limited color options ` Not environmentally friendly
ADVANTAGES
` Properly cured cedar shingles are shrink-resistant
` Natural beauty ` Eco-friendly ` Easier to install than most, if not all, other materials
DISADVANTAGES
` Requires yearly ongoing maintenance (adding to overall investment cost)
` Costly ` If not maintained yearly, dirt, debris and moisture pile up on the siding and mold and mildew will grow - gradually leading to rot
` Unless specially treated, wood can burn rather easily
ADVANTAGES
` Low maintenance ` Non-flammable ` Insect resistant ` Holds up to weather better than other lap siding materials
` Great ROI ` Long lasting/durable
DISADVANTAGES
` Very heavy material, benefits significantly from expert installation
` May have moisture build up below the surface, due to improper installation
` Middle of the road in terms of budget, but very expensive compared to vinyl
Continued On Page 24
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36
