A Guide to Siding for Ashwaubenon, WI: Wood vs. Vinyl
Are you considering a home renovation project in Ashwaubenon, WI?
Have you been pondering over the best siding material for your home?
These are common questions homeowners face when planning to enhance their home’s exterior.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the world of siding, specifically focusing on wood and vinyl siding.
By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which siding option is the best choice for your home when you need siding installation in Ashwaubenon.
The Importance of Home Siding
Siding is more than just an aesthetic feature of your home.
It plays a crucial role in protecting your home from weather elements, insulating your home, and enhancing its curb appeal.
The right siding can significantly increase your home’s value, making it a critical consideration for any homeowner.
The Basics of Vinyl Siding
What is Vinyl Siding?
Vinyl siding is a lightweight and popular choice for home exteriors, made from a type of plastic known as PVC (polyvinyl chloride).
It’s loved for its versatility, offering a wide range of colors and styles to match any architectural design.
It is rot-resistant (unlike real wood), and some styles of vinyl even replicate the look of natural wood.
Stay tuned to discover all the pros and cons of vinyl siding to see if it’s the right siding for your home.
The Pros of Vinyl Siding
Cost-Effective
One of the major pros of vinyl siding is that it is more cost-effective than other house siding materials.
It is much less expensive than real wood, which makes it an appealing option if you are looking to save money on your home renovation project.
Low-Maintenance
Vinyl siding is also very low maintenance, making it ideal for busy homeowners who don’t have time to worry about their home’s exterior.
Vinyl requires very little upkeep and can easily be washed clean with a hose if it gets dust or dirt on it.
Easily Repaired
Vinyl siding is more easily repaired by a professional.
Unlike brick, wood, or metal siding, which require more specialized tools to repair, vinyl siding can usually be quickly fixed by replacing the affected area with a new vinyl board.
Variety of Colors
Vinyl siding comes in many different colors, so you can choose something that fits your style and taste perfectly.
You can find everything from classic beiges and whites to bold reds and blues, depending on what look you’re going for.
The Cons of Vinyl Siding
Requires Proper Installation
Vinyl siding must be properly installed in order to look good and last as long as possible.
This means that you need to hire a professional installer who knows how to install the panels correctly and make sure that they are sealed tightly.
Less Durable Than Other Materials
Vinyl siding can be less durable than other materials, such as wood or aluminum siding, when it comes to extreme weather conditions like hail storms or strong winds.
It is also prone to cracking over time due to temperature fluctuations or general wear and tear from everyday use.
That being said, the latest generation of premium vinyl siding is more durable than ever and can even last up to 60 years.
Environmental Concerns
Most vinyl siding products are made from petroleum-based plastic, which makes them non-biodegradable and thus bad for the environment if disposed of improperly.
The Basics of Wood Siding
What is Wood Siding?
Wood siding is a classic choice that offers a timeless, natural look. It’s available in a variety of styles, including lap siding, board and batten, and cedar shakes.
The type of wood used can greatly influence the appearance and durability of the siding.
Keep reading to discover all the pros and cons of wood siding.
The Pros of Wood Siding
Versatility
Wood siding is highly customizable, with a wide range of style options and installation choices.
It’s not affected by extreme temperatures and can maintain its value well, making it a good return on investment.
Environmentally Friendly
Wood siding is an eco-friendly choice for your home, as it is a renewable and biodegradable material.
Many wood siding options come from sustainably managed forests, ensuring that the environmental impact of your choice is minimal.
Variety of Styles
Wood siding is available in numerous styles, such as traditional clapboard, shiplap, tongue and groove siding, board and batten siding, split log siding, and more.
The variety of wood siding styles allows you to choose a style that complements your home’s architecture and your personal taste.
The Cons of Wood Siding
Requires Regular Maintenance
Wood siding, while beautiful, requires more maintenance than vinyl. It’s susceptible to wood-eating insects and can be impacted by moisture, leading to potential rot.
You can learn how to maintain wood siding, or you can try low-maintenance sidings such as LP SmartSide (an engineered wood) or James Hardie HardiePlank (a fiber cement siding).
Installation of wood siding can also be more complex and costly than vinyl due to its weight and other factors.
Lower Fire Resistance
Wood siding generally has a lower fire resistance rating than other siding materials like brick or fiber cement.
This can be a concern for homeowners in areas prone to wildfires or those looking for the highest level of fire protection.
Susceptible to Pests
Wood siding can be susceptible to damage from termites and other wood-boring insects, leading to costly repairs or replacements.
You can learn how to repair wood siding on your own, or you can choose a wood species naturally resistant to pests (such as cedar siding, or have your siding treated with a pest-resistant coating.
Higher Initial Cost
Compared to other siding options, such as vinyl or wood fiber cement siding, wood siding can be more expensive initially.
The cost of materials and installation can add up quickly, especially if you choose a high-quality, durable wood species.
Here’s a table summarizing the pros and cons of both vinyl and wood siding:
| Vinyl Siding | Wood Siding | |
|---|---|---|
| Pros | ||
| Cost-Effective | More cost-effective than other siding materials, including wood. | Depending on the type of wood, it can be a cost-effective option. |
| Low-Maintenance | Requires very little upkeep and can easily be washed clean with a hose. | Can last for decades with proper maintenance. |
| Easily Repaired | It can usually be quickly fixed by replacing the affected area with a new board. | Individual wood panels can be removed and replaced without affecting the entire siding system. |
| Variety of Colors | Comes in many different colors, allowing for a personalized look. | Can be painted or stained in any color, allowing for a personalized look. |
| Cons | Vinyl Siding | Wood Siding |
| Requires Proper Installation | Must be properly installed by a professional to ensure longevity and appearance. | Installation can be more complex and costly than vinyl. |
| Less Durable | Less durable than other materials when it comes to extreme weather conditions. | Can be impacted by moisture and is susceptible to wood-eating insects. |
| Environmental Concerns | Made from petroleum-based plastic, which is non-biodegradable. | More eco-friendly than vinyl, especially when sourced from sustainably managed forests. |
Comparing Vinyl and Wood Siding
Now let’s take a closer look at how the two siding types compare when it comes to a variety of factors that homeowners look for in quality siding.
Appearance and Customization Options
Both wood and vinyl siding offers a range of styles and colors.
However, wood provides a more natural and subtle grain appearance and is available in different plank sizes.
Vinyl, while offering a faux wood grain, has more visible seams and fewer style options.
Durability
Vinyl siding is less susceptible to pests and is not affected by moisture, making it a durable choice.
Wood, on the other hand, can warp with humidity changes and is susceptible to pests, but certain types of wood and treatments can mitigate these issues.
Price
Vinyl siding is generally less expensive than wood siding, making it a budget-friendly option.
However, the type of wood and the style of siding can greatly affect the cost of wood siding.
Ease of Installation
Vinyl siding is easier and faster to install than wood siding, as it locks into place without fasteners and doesn’t need to be sanded, primed, or painted.
Wood siding requires more labor, increasing the installation time and cost.
Maintenance
Wood siding requires more maintenance, including regular painting or staining to prevent rot.
Vinyl siding, on the other hand, requires less maintenance, needing only occasional cleaning and replacement of damaged boards.
Length of Life
With proper maintenance, wood siding can last 20 to 40 years, while vinyl siding can last up to 60 years or more.
Sustainability
Wood siding is more eco-friendly than vinyl, especially when sustainably harvested.
Vinyl siding, while recyclable, is often difficult to recycle and can release harmful chemicals during manufacturing.
Energy-Efficiency
Neither wood nor vinyl siding is particularly energy-efficient on its own.
However, with added insulation, both can contribute to a more energy-efficient home.
Pests
Wood siding can be susceptible to wood-eating insects, while vinyl is not.
However, gaps in vinyl siding can still allow pests to enter and damage the home’s structure. This is why it is crucial to get your vinyl siding installed by reputable contractors.
Sound Performance
Neither wood nor vinyl siding significantly reduces the amount of sound entering your home.
However, adding insulation beneath the siding can help reduce noise.
Extreme Temperatures
Exterior wood siding can swell and contract with humidity changes, which could eventually warp the wood.
Vinyl siding, on the other hand, can crack in extreme cold and soften or melt in high temperatures.
Environmental Concerns
Wood siding, when harvested sustainably, has a lower environmental impact than vinyl.
Vinyl siding, being a type of plastic, can release harmful chemicals during manufacturing and is difficult to recycle.
Resale Value
Both wood and vinyl siding can increase your home’s resale value.
However, in some areas, homes with exterior wood siding may fetch a higher price than those with vinyl siding.
Wood Siding vs. Vinyl Siding: Which Should You Choose?
Choosing between wood and vinyl siding for your Ashwaubenon home depends on your specific needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences.
Both materials have their pros and cons, and understanding these can help you make an informed decision.
At Urban Exteriors, we understand the importance of quality siding for your home.
We’re here to help you navigate these choices and find the best siding solution for your needs.
Ready to start your siding project?
Fill out our contact form today, or give us a call. We’re excited to work with you to enhance your home’s exterior.