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Vinyl is a popular siding material in the U.S., and for good reason. However, homeowners are often unsure of the exact lifespan of vinyl siding.
At Kickapoo Roofing, we are your local roofing and siding professionals serving La Crosse and the nearby areas of Wisconsin. In today’s article, we will get into detail about how long vinyl siding lasts.
For a free, no-obligation discussion with our siding professionals, feel free to call us today at (608)352-8688.
What Is The General Lifespan Of Vinyl Siding?
Vinyl siding can last for 20 to 40 years. But this is a general estimation. You need to remember that the exact lifespan of your vinyl siding depends on various other things, which we will go over later in this article.
In some cases, with consistent maintenance and favorable climate conditions, vinyl siding can last upwards of 50 years.
What makes vinyl siding so popular among homeowners is its durability, low maintenance requirements, and relatively inexpensive cost compared to other siding options like wood or fiber cement.
What Are The Factors That Affect The Lifespan Of Vinyl Siding?
Here are a few things that impact the exact vinyl siding lifespan for your home:
#1 Climate and Weather Conditions
Climate plays a very important role in determining how long vinyl siding will last. Homes in moderate climates with balanced temperatures generally see vinyl siding lasting longer than those in extreme climates.
Excessive UV exposure can cause your siding to fade and become brittle over time. Similarly, homes in areas with frequent hailstorms, heavy snowfall, or high winds may experience more wear and tear, potentially reducing the lifespan of vinyl siding.
#2 Quality of Installation
Even the highest quality vinyl siding won’t perform well if it’s not installed correctly. Proper installation prevents issues like buckling, warping, and water leaks that can reduce the lifespan of your siding.
When installing vinyl siding, it’s very important to leave room for expansion and contraction because of temperature changes.
Hiring experienced professionals ensures your siding is installed according to manufacturer specifications which helps it reach its expected lifespan.
#3 Quality of Materials
The thickness and quality of vinyl siding directly impact its durability and longevity. Premium vinyl siding is generally 0.040 to 0.046 inches thick. Provides better resistance to impacts, extreme temperatures, and UV radiation.
Lower-quality, thinner vinyl siding might save money at first, but it often requires replacement much sooner. Most quality vinyl siding includes UV inhibitors that slow down sun damage and color fading.
#4 Maintenance Practices
How well you maintain your vinyl siding also affects its lifespan. Cleaning prevents dirt, mold, and mildew from building up, which can deteriorate the material over time.
Quick repairs of any small damage prevent issues from spreading and causing more extensive problems. Homeowners who perform routine inspections and maintenance can expect their vinyl siding to last closer to the upper end of its potential lifespan.
#5 Style and Type of Vinyl Siding
Different styles of vinyl siding have varying lifespans. Traditional lap siding typically lasts 20 to 40 years, while premium insulated vinyl siding might last 30 to 50 years.
Shake or shingle vinyl siding generally lasts 20 to 30 years, and board-and-batten styles might last up to 25 years. Your choice of style should consider not just aesthetics but also the expected longevity based on your climate and needs.
Also Read: 10 Types Of Vinyl Siding Styles With Pictures
How to Maintain the Lifespan of Vinyl Siding
Knowing how to maintain the lifespan of your vinyl siding is also important for homeowners.
With some simple tips, you can make sure your siding lasts at least to its expected lifespan. Here we will discuss how you can maintain the lifespan of your vinyl siding.
#1 Regular Cleaning
You should clean your vinyl siding at least once or twice a year using mild soap, warm water, and a soft-bristled brush. Avoid pressure washers on high settings as they can force water behind the siding and cause more damage.
#2 Quick Repairs
Always address small problems immediately before they cause major damage. Replace cracked or damaged panels as soon as you notice them to prevent moisture infiltration and further damage to adjacent panels.
#3 Prevent Contact with Heat Sources
Keep heat sources like grills and fire pits away from vinyl siding. Excessive heat can warp and melt vinyl, causing permanent damage that requires panel replacement.
#4 Trim Vegetation
Keep trees and bushes trimmed away from your siding. Branches can scratch the surface, and excessive shade can promote unwanted mold and mildew growth on your vinyl siding.
#5 Annual Inspections
Perform a very thorough inspection of your vinyl siding every year, preferably in spring and fall. Look for cracks, warping, loose panels, or signs of water damage to catch issues early.
#6 Avoid Chemicals When Cleaning
Never use abrasive cleaners, solvents, or undiluted bleach on vinyl siding. These can damage the finish and reduce the material’s integrity and lifespan.
What Are The Common Signs Vinyl Siding Replacement Is Needed?
Knowing when to replace vinyl siding can help stop problems from spreading to other parts of your home’s structure. Here we will share common signs that it’s time for you to consider vinyl siding replacement.
#1 Cracks, Holes, or Breaks
When you notice cracks, holes, or breaks in your vinyl siding, it’s a clear indication that replacement might be necessary.
These openings allow moisture to penetrate behind the siding, potentially causing damage to your home’s structure.
While minor damage to one or two panels can be repaired by replacing just those panels, extensive damage across many areas suggests it’s time for a complete replacement.
#2 Warping or Buckling
Vinyl siding that appears warped or buckled has likely reached the end of its useful life. This warping can occur due to heat exposure, improper installation, or simply age.
When siding no longer lies flat against your home, it creates gaps where moisture can enter and potentially cause serious structural damage.
#3 Faded Color
While some color fading is normal over time, excessive or uneven fading indicates your vinyl siding is deteriorating.
Severely faded siding not only affects your home’s curb appeal but also suggests that the protective qualities of the vinyl have diminished, making it less effective at protecting your home from the elements.
#4 Increased Energy Bills
If you notice a steady increase in your heating or cooling costs, your vinyl siding might be failing to provide adequate insulation.
As vinyl siding ages, it becomes less effective at insulating your home, requiring your HVAC system to work harder and use more energy to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.
#5 Water Damage or Mold Inside Your Home
Water stains, peeling wallpaper, or mold growth on interior walls can indicate that your vinyl siding is failing to keep moisture out.
When you notice these signs inside your home, it’s crucial to inspect your siding for damage that might be allowing water infiltration.
#6 Excessive Maintenance Requirements
When your vinyl siding requires increasingly frequent cleaning or repairs to maintain its overall appearance and function, it might be more cost-effective to replace it entirely. Quality vinyl siding should require minimal maintenance throughout its lifespan.
Professional Siding Services In Wisconsin
At Kickapoo Roofing, we are your trusted local siding professionals. We are committed to providing high-quality, professional siding services in La Crosse and the surrounding areas of Wisconsin.
Our professionals have years of experience working with various types of siding, including vinyl. To discuss your project with our professionals, reach out to us today at (608) 352-8688.
