Did you know that the average cost to side a house is $10,404? If you are currently looking for a way to refresh your home and are considering a new exterior look, we are here to help. Below we will discuss more about metal vs vinyl siding.

Keep reading to learn more in order to move forward with this exterior remodel. 

Vinyl Siding Basics

This is one of the most popular types of siding because it is a great price and it is durable. There are several vinyl grades to choose from which vary in thickness and in texture. The thinnest grades are less than .04″ thick and usually cost around $3 per square foot for material and install. 

The thinner vinyl options will last anywhere between 10-12 years. Thicker and better vinyl grades are around .055″ and they cost around $5 per square foot installed by someone like American Made Windows of the Upstate (whose siding work you can see here https://americanmadewindowsupstate.com/services/siding/) With a higher grade you do not have to worry about the color fading.

Vinly is also a lot more energy efficient than other siding materials because it has the ability to reduce air infiltration into your home. Vinyl can also be combined with certain materials to make it airtight.  

Metal Siding Basics

There are quite a few benefits of metal siding including higher durability. When this siding became popular, it was because it was being used as an alternative to wood siding. Nowadays metal siding has better paint than it used to, which means that you do not have to worry about chalking and fading like before. 

There are different grades of steel siding panels to choose from. The higher the grade is the better it will withstand against denting and scratching. Usually, metal siding will cost up to $7 per square foot installed. 

Durability

Metal is a durable siding option for those that live in areas of high winds and where it rains often. It is able to keep water and dirt out, and also withstand against high winds. 

Vinyl is also very durable and some companies offer a vinyl siding that is certified to be fade-resistant. When debating on which one will be most durable you have to evaluate the weather in your area into the equation before making a final choice. 

Unlike wood, vinyl is also termite resistant so you do not have to worry about dealing with any structural issues in the future. It also will not corrode or rust like some metal siding materials. 

Style

Metal siding has different shade options to choose from. Most companies carry a blue, barn red, or green color. There are other metal sidings that have a wood grain look and feel to them if you prefer a more natural outdoorsy look. 

One nice thing about metal siding is that you can always repaint it. If you change your mind on the exterior color of your home you can change up your house color yourself or hire a professional painter. 

If you want even more options, then vinyl might be best for you. There are unlimited colors to choose from, and plenty of style options such as cedar shingle look-alikes. You can also choose from plenty of different trims. 

Material

Metal siding can be made to match the home around it and on top of it, it is also environmentally friendly because this material can be produced with very little energy. Also, if you ever remove the siding, for one reason or another, it is recyclable so you do not have to worry about it ending up in a landfill.

Metal siding material is also able to reduce heat absorption which can equate to lower heating and cooling costs for your home during the winter and summer months. Metal siding is also fire-resistant and extremely durable in cold temperatures.

You really do not have to worry about mold or mildew invading your home because the material is able to withstand this. Something else that you do not have to worry about is any swelling of the material or any rotting. 

Vinyl also is a durable material which is why it became more popular than metal siding at one point in time. There are plenty of material options and many manufacturers have started making them more “green.”

In most cases it is easier to take care of vinyl siding because you can simply pressure wash it or use a scrub with soap and water and keep it looking new. 

Price

Opting for metal siding will cost you more than vinyl. The reason is that it will last you longer and companies will offer better warranties as well. Some companies might offer a 30-35 years warranty against chalking or fading or extra coverage for things such as hail for 50 years. 

Vinly siding will rarely come with such a long warranty. Typically, this siding will last you around a decade. If you maintain it well then it might last you a little longer. If you are on a tighter budget then vinyl might be the best option for you. 

If you can afford a higher price tag and would prefer the option with the best long-term value, then metal siding is it. 

Feeling Like a Metal vs Vinyl Siding Pro?

We hope that now that you know more about metal vs vinyl siding, you can make an informed decision on which siding you prefer for your exterior remodel. And no matter which material you choose, make sure you only hire a reputable company.

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