What Is Vinyl Siding?

close up of home siding

When you are updating your siding, you have a lot of different options to choose from. Vinyl siding has long been a popular option for a reason. But what is vinyl siding and how does this benefit your home?

Vinyl siding is primarily made from PVC and is used to wrap around the home. This siding is used for both weatherproofing and to add aesthetic appeal to the home. Due to the materials used and the construction of the vinyl siding, this is a durable choice that is resistant to the weather and is less likely to fade in the sunlight. 

By reading on, you can learn about the most popular options to consider, as well as everything that you need to know about vinyl siding. This will help you decide whether or not vinyl siding is the best choice for your siding upgrade.

Is Vinyl Siding Better Than Wood?

Wood siding and vinyl siding are both options that homeowners consider when getting siding. This section will take a closer look at some of the differences between wood and vinyl siding.

Difference in Appearance

Wood siding has this elegant and incredible look to it, which is one reason why homeowners consider this option. There are different types of wood that you can choose from, which can vary in the sizes of planks and the different styles that you can choose from. If the paint fades, you can more easily repaint the wood siding.

However, vinyl siding does offer various customization options that you won’t necessarily get with wood siding. This is a durable option that can last for a long time, but if the vinyl fades you won’t have the option of repainting it.

Difference in Durability

Durability is another area where there is a major difference to consider. Wood siding is relatively durable, but it can be more vulnerable to weather conditions. This can mean that you will need to go through a process of stripping, sanding, and repainting the wood siding every couple of years. Wood is also more vulnerable to insect infestations, which can impact its durability.

This is where vinyl siding shines. This is an incredibly durable siding option, which doesn’t rot, warp, or anything else as a result of the weather. It can withstand most things and can last for sometimes over 40 years with proper maintenance and cleaning. 

Difference in Energy Efficiency

These days, people are concerned about energy efficiency so it’s important to select the right siding. Wood siding does decently well with insulation, which helps with energy efficiency. The problem is that it can expand and contract with different weather, which means it doesn’t keep that tight seal for proper efficiency.

As previously mentioned, vinyl siding doesn’t warp or get altered by weather patterns, so it won’t leave your insulation as vulnerable. Adding a foam layer between the siding in your house can further improve energy efficiency.

Differences in Cost/Maintenance

Lastly, you need to look at the differences in cost/maintenance. Wood materials can get increasingly expensive with the higher quality materials. You should also factor in that this is a high-maintenance material that can be costly to maintain as well. It also doesn’t last as long as vinyl, meaning you need to cost out repairs or new siding.

Vinyl siding is far cheaper than wood. Even if you get the highest quality vinyl possible, it is still cheaper than most wood options. It’s also easier to maintain, only really requiring cleaning. You can buy a pressure washer to take care of this yourself, or you can hire someone to clean your siding regularly.

What is Vinyl Siding?

Vinyl siding has been around since the 1950s, where it became an alternative to the traditionally used aluminum siding. However, the technology of the early types of vinyl siding has greatly improved and it has become a popular choice for siding.

Primarily created from PVC resin, these materials are made specifically so that they don’t fade due to the weather or sunlight. Today’s vinyl siding comes in a variety of different styles, colors, and designs that you can choose from. Many options mimic different siding types to give you the look of the other siding with the benefits of vinyl siding. 

How Long Does Vinyl Siding Last?

Typically, vinyl siding can last between 20 and 40 years, though it can sometimes last even longer than 40 years. There are a few reasons why vinyl siding can last this long. For one thing, it is resistant to the elements, which means that it doesn’t require as much maintenance. These are made to not have the color fade due to the sun. You just need to wash the siding once or twice a year.

It also isn’t susceptible to issues like insects, rotting, or warping. Insects can eat away at some siding types, which can cause moisture to get underneath, leading to issues like mold or rot. 

Vinyl is a durable option that will last you for years to come.

What are the Benefits of Vinyl Siding?

There are plenty of benefits that you can get from choosing vinyl siding. This section discusses the top benefits of having vinyl siding.

Do Not Require Painting

Many other materials that are used for siding often require repainting, whether it’s because the paint has faded or chipped. Vinyl siding has its color “baked-in”, which means that many of these issues don’t affect the siding. You won’t have to worry about repainting your vinyl siding, and all of the headaches and costs associated with that task.

Cost-Effective

This is also the most cost-effective siding option. Vinyl siding is one of the least expensive options for siding materials. This will not only be the cheapest siding option, but the costs associated with maintenance is also cheaper. Aside from cleaning the siding, you don’t need to do much to maintain the siding. The only costs really associated with the maintenance is purchasing the supplies to clean the siding or hiring a professional to take care of this task for you.

Low Maintenance

Homeowners have a lot that they have to deal with when it comes to the maintenance of their home. They don’t need any more on their plate. This is why a low-maintenance siding option like vinyl can be a great decision for your home. 

Durability

Vinyl siding is among the most durable of the siding options. This is especially true when you compare it to options like wood. Vinyl siding can last you for decades before it needs to be replaced, especially when you invest in quality siding and a reputable contractor to install the siding for you. If you want siding that you can count on for as long as you’re in your home, vinyl siding can be the best choice.

Versatility

These days, vinyl siding comes in so many options that you can select something that really works for your design ideas for your home. For instance, maybe you like the look of wood shaker siding, but want the durability of vinyl siding. You can get both with vinyl siding.

Energy Efficiency

Energy costs are always seemingly on the rise. Getting proper insulation from your siding can help with the energy efficiency of your home. Vinyl siding offers the best protection for your insulation and prevents issues like mold and rot, which can impact how efficient your home is.

Conclusion

As you can see, vinyl siding is a clear choice when you are selecting siding materials for your home. This is the low-cost option that offers durability, versatility, and little maintenance so that you can spend more time focusing on enjoying your home. When you talk to your contractor, they can help you decide on the right vinyl siding for your home.

Can You Paint Vinyl Siding and What Paint Should You Use?

close up of home siding

Replacing vinyl siding is a very costly aspect of house maintenance for a homeowner so of course, we want a better way of keeping the outside of our homes tidy and protected. One way homeowners, like yourself, can save some money is by painting vinyl siding instead of replacing it, but is it really cost-effective, or even possible to do?

Property owners can absolutely paint vinyl siding as a normally cheaper alternative to replacing the siding and as a regular form of maintenance to existing siding. When painting, homeowners should use acrylic and/or latex urethane-based paints, not water-based paints, because water-based won’t stick to vinyl or be durable against the elements.

If you would like to learn more about painting vinyl siding, and what it would take to make it work well, then please read the information below. 

Can You Paint Vinyl Siding and How Long Does it Last?

Experts from professional companies in the siding or paint industries such as Sherlin Williams or T-N-T Home Improvements will tell you that, yes, you can paint your vinyl siding. There are a few factors that will help you determine whether or not it would be a good decision for your house, but commonly, repainting vinyl siding is actually part of recommended regular maintenance for vinyl siding. 

Vinyl siding normally lasts for 30 years before any serious work has to be done to it to maintain it or replace it. Once you have repainted the siding, you can expect the paint to last anywhere from 5-10 years before it’s time to repaint again, based on the quality of your vinyl siding and the severity of the weather in your area.

What’s the Best Paint for Vinyl Siding?

When it’s time to paint your vinyl siding, you need to use “vinyl safe” paints. The best vinyl-safe paint to use is exterior acrylic latex paint, made with latex urethane and acrylic resins for its stretch and durability. Paints that are acrylic-based tend to stick to vinyl the best because it will expand or shrink according to the weather just like the plastic siding will, while latex urethane both stretches and is chip-resistant, acting as a shield for the paint.

If you can, try to find the color you want with a satin finish instead of matte or high gloss. This is because satin mimics the original finish that vinyl siding comes with the best. Of course, if you don’t want to replicate the original vinyl finish, the other finishes should adhere to the siding just as well. 

Lastly, try to design your home in a similar or lighter color, NOT a darker one. We’ll flesh out the reason for this in the cons of painting vinyl siding, but for now, I’ll just say you will likely only do more damage to your siding than if you left it alone.

Does Vinyl Siding Need to be Primed Before Painting?

The reasons for using paint primer, especially on plastic surfaces, are

  1. To cover a dark color if you intend to replace it with a lighter one. This saves you time and money, sparing you from having to apply coat after coat of the actual paint color you wanted. 
  2. To cover stubborn imperfections like mildew stains or permanent markers that tend to show through the paint.
  3. To smooth out porous surfaces for a smoother finish
  4. To help the paint you use to bind to the painted surface better. It would be devastating to put in all the time, energy, and money into painting your whole house, only to see the paint chipping away in a few weeks. 

Primer isn’t a requirement when painting vinyl siding, but if your siding is quite old and has divots, pits, and has become porous because the original finish is long gone, primer is just the thing to smooth out the surface. 

Also, because vinyl is plastic, priming is a wise thing to do to make sure the paint you use sticks to the vinyl. While priming isn’t entirely necessary, washing the siding thoroughly IS, so keep that in mind.

What are the Cons of Painting Vinyl Siding?

If you have a warranty on your siding, read it again carefully. Many warranties won’t allow you to repaint your vinyl and keep the warranty because it would violate their rules on maintaining the siding. Manufacturers will also commonly have certain stipulations about redesigning vinyl siding, such as what kind of paint you can use, and even what color you can paint it. Do you live in a suburban neighborhood? You’d better double-check the Homeowners Association (HOA) to see what colors and materials they allow you to use, as well. 

If your current siding is old and extremely worn out, it won’t do you any good to try to repaint it because there comes a point when the paint just won’t stick to the vinyl. I would say after 20 years vinyl should just be replaced.

If you live in an area that frequently has harsh weather conditions, such as many areas of the east coast, your siding will inevitably endure much more severe damage, to the point where repainting won’t improve the damage or extend the life of the siding. 

The next con is that you don’t have the choice of every color when you repaint. Vinyl is plastic and dark colors absorb much more heat than light colors, so if you choose a color that is very dark, you may overheat the plastic beyond its limit and cause the siding to warp noticeably in places. 

Finally, we must acknowledge the fact that painting is a much more temporary solution than a full replacement, especially if you have thin, lower-grade vinyl siding. You will absolutely extend the life of your vinyl if you use the right paint, but if repainting will only give you a few more years before you have to repaint it again or replace it, or if repainting is almost as costly for you as replacing the vinyl, it would be better to replace it the first time.

How to Fix the Problems With Vinyl Siding

Quite honestly, most of the cons associated with vinyl siding come from poor quality. That’s why it’s a good idea to ask for help from experts, like my team at T-N-T Home improvements, who can give you advice for your home improvement project. Or, even better, we can install quality siding for you. Why should you call my team?

Because we can solve ALL the common problems with vinyl. Without being too proud, our siding services are second to none as we have the best siding contractors, and our obsession with quality is dynamite. You can be assured that we will install a vinyl that resists extreme weather, exterior damage, and will stand the test of time.

This way, you don’t have to invest in a more expensive material and you don’t have to worry about costly maintenance or repairs. There’s no risk in calling us either because we offer free estimates. 

Conclusion

In short, painting vinyl siding is a very practical thing to do to maintain it and protect it against the sun and the elements, to an extent. If you don’t use quality siding the first time you are doomed to spend time, money, and effort on frequent maintenance and repairs. Don’t accidentally install a money pit, let us help! If you are located in the Northern Colorado/ Southern Wyoming area, you can give us a call today at 970-663-2868 or visit our siding services page and fill out the contact form to make an appointment.

How Much Does It Cost to Reside a House?

Residing your house is a major project that can increase your property value and curb appeal. And if you do it right, you might be looking at a home that can sustain its impressive exterior look for years and years to come.

But how costly is it to replace the siding on a house? The average cost to reside a house is around $2 – $50 per square foot. It can go higher or lower depending on the size of your home, the number of stories, and the siding materials you choose.

Nonetheless, it is a pretty huge investment. But despite the substantial financial demand, it also has great returns considering how much it upscales your home. With that, hiring reliable professionals to reside your house is your best option to make sure you get your money’s worth.

If you’re planning to reside your house, here’s everything you need to know regarding costs, materials, and installation.

What Is the Purpose of Residing a House?

There are essentially three major reasons why you should reside your house.

1.      To upgrade exterior protection.

Your house’s siding or wall cladding is not just for show. It has a critical role in protecting your home. A durable siding can keep your house away from the damages caused by weather changes or other extreme conditions like hurricanes or tornadoes. In addition, it keeps the entire structure sturdy along with the primary foundations.

2.      To improve your house aesthetics.

Everyone loves a beautiful house. And with beauty comes higher value.

You may choose to reside your home if you want to update its exterior design. It could be out of preference, or you may want to put your house up for sale.

3.      To repair deteriorating sliding.

If your house is 30 to 50 years old and the wall cladding is clearly hanging on for dear life, then residing your house is a much-needed home improvement project. It could improve the structure’s integrity and increase your house’s appeal.

Siding that starts to deteriorate creates holes that can let in moisture and even unwanted critters.

How Long Does Siding Lasts?

A house siding can last for an average of 50 to 60 years. However, the specific lifespan of siding depends on its materials.

For example, bricks and stone siding can last for up to 100 years. At the same time, vinyl and fiber cement can stay in good condition for 60 years.

Of course, this is mainly dependent on the quality of installation. If it is done haphazardly, you can expect minor to major defects in the future. But if it was put up impeccably, then you’ll have to wait decades before the next residing.

How Much Does It Cost to Reside a House?

You can reside your house with a budget ranging from $2,500 to $16,000. The average expenses would run at $10,000, give or take. Naturally, this would include all the construction materials for residing and labor.

However, the exact cost to reside your house depends on the size, type of siding, and design you wish to adopt. Check out the specific estimates for residing depending on the house size.

1000 Sq Ft House: A 1000 square feet house often needs a budget of $1,000 to $3,000 for residing.

1500 Sq Ft House: It will cost you at least $3,000 to reside in a 1500 square feet house.

1,800 Sq Ft House: You have to prepare more or less $4,599 for residing if you have a 1,800 square feet house.

2000 Sq Ft House: The cost of residing a 2000 square feet house is between $4,300 to $15,800.

2500 Sq Ft House: If your house is about 2500 square feet, prepare a budget between $5,750 to $32,500. The type of material primarily impacts the overall expenses along with labor.

How Much Does It Cost to Put Siding on a 2-Story House?

The average cost of residing a 2-story house is about  $7,000 to $16,000. That is if you are planning to have vinyl siding. The expenses will most likely increase if you go for wood or stone siding.

Aside from the materials, the installation cost is another critical element of the budget. Again, you might find it pricier if you opt for removing and replacing the existing siding.

In some cases, you can simply ask the contractor to put new siding on old ones. But this is conditional and requires a thorough assessment of the existing siding first.

How Does Vinyl Siding Increase Home Value?

Vinyl siding boosts your home value by 63% of the project’s cost.

You can associate this increase with the added and updated look and protection of your home. Not only will it enhance the exterior protective layer of your house, but it will also ensure its durability and longevity.

Moreover, adding new siding improves the house’s aesthetics, making it more appealing to potential homeowners if you are trying to sell your house.

What Should I Look for When Residing a House?

When planning to reside your house, factors such as type of siding materials, your budget, the overall theme, and the architectural design of the structure should be considered.

Since residing is a major home renovation, it requires considerable planning. Part of which includes choosing materials that suit the weather and climate in your area.

Likewise, you have to assess if said materials fit the general design of your home, unless, of course, if you’re planning to change your home’s style. For example, contemporary houses can use wood or vinyl sidings.

Nonetheless, you’ll have plenty of options for siding that might fit right for your exterior. Check out some of the most popular siding options below.

Types of Siding

1.       Vinyl

If it’s practicality you’re after, then a vinyl siding would be on top of your list. Materials for this type of siding are low maintenance and incredibly affordable, with average prices that go between $3 to $8 per square foot. 

Moreover, vinyl siding has a longer lifespan of 30 – 40 years. So, it should last you a while before needing to be replaced.

Despite their synthetic nature, you can find many vinyl sidings mimicking wood, stones, and other styles. You can also find vinyl sidings in different colors and designs. They can also be shaped like fish scales or arranged in panels, shingles, and more.

2.       Wood

Wood is a perfect choice if you’re going for traditional siding. It comes in different styles and has an inert versatility that gives you plenty of options for design. The average price for wood siding is between $5 to $14 per square foot.

Likewise, its natural looks and charm stand the test of time. Plus, it’s pretty easy to install.

However, one huge downside of wood is that it needs high maintenance as it is prone to water and weather damages.

So, it is absolutely important to choose the right wood. Or better yet, consult an expert so you can avoid colossal mistakes.

3.       Brick

Are you looking for sidings that could last for a century? Then, you can never go wrong with brick sidings. You can have your house exterior installed with full brick sidings that typically cost about $14 to $30 per square foot. But if you go for brick veneers, the costs could be lower.

Brick sidings are also low maintenance. However, the installation may be a bit pricier, considering how intricate the process is.

4.       Stone

If you have a luxurious taste that leans more on a classic design, then you might find stone sidings to be appealing.

You can choose different types of stones like granite and limestone. That is, if you’re going for a natural, earthy look for your façade.

But aside from aesthetics, stone sidings are also effective in protecting your home from any damage caused by the weather.

However, just like bricks, stone can also be expensive, costing around $30 – $50 per square foot. Stone veneers are less pricy in the $4 to $10 per square foot range.

5.       Metal

Metal sidings are often associated with retro houses. But these durable exteriors can match any other design depending on how you plan to style it.

Nonetheless, metals sidings are durable and reliable in protecting your exterior from damages like insects and physical damage.

Just make sure that you choose the right kind of metal and have it installed by professionals. Otherwise, you might encounter rust in the future. If you’re going for the long-term, stainless steel often leads the pack.

You can expect to spend an average of about $4 to $8 per square foot if you choose a metal siding.

6.       Concrete

If you’re living in an area prone to hurricanes, flooding, and wildfires, then having a concrete exterior can be a great way to defend your home. 

Concrete is a mixture of cement, water, and gravel that turns into a paste. The paste hardens over time, fortifying the wall. 

One of the many strengths of concrete siding is its longevity. You can expect it to last for generations. 

The estimated cost for concrete siding is between $3 to $6 per square foot. Installation could be pricier compared to other types of siding.

7.       Fiber Cement

Choosing a siding that you like can be tricky, especially if budget and style conflict. Or if you want a natural look but don’t want the maintenance of wood. 

Fortunately, you can still get the natural looks of wood siding without the yearly upkeep, thanks to fiber cement.

Fiber cement is an artificial exterior cladding made of cement, sand, and some wood fibers. 

The form and bits of its texture copy that of wood. Fiber Cement can come with different styling options and costs an average of $6 – $13 per square foot.

What Type of Siding Lasts the Longest?

Bricks and stone sidings are known to last the longest among different siding materials. They can even last for a hundred years provided that they’re maintained well. This is pretty obvious with comes Victorian houses that withstood the test of time. 

However, the issue with these natural sidings is that they can be significantly expensive.

If you’re on a budget but are looking for siding materials that can last for decades, then your best option can be vinyl or fiber cement siding.

A vinyl siding is cheaper, but if you’re going for the durability of concrete, you’ll have your best chances with the fiber cement.

What Color Siding Fades the Least

White is known to fade the least when it comes to color siding. However, more often than not, lighter colors don’t fade fast.

On the other hand, darker colors tend to go dull over a long period. This can result from sunlight exposure or weather changes that diminish the paint or the embedded color of the siding.

Therefore, when choosing a siding material, it is best to consider factors such as the type of weather you have in your area. If fading is inevitable, you can always go for siding materials that can be repainted instead of replaced entirely.

What Color Siding Has the Best Resale Value?

You can get the best resale value if your siding has a neutral, lighter color. It could be in the shade of gray, blue, beige, light brown, or taupe. White is also a great option if you want to increase your home’s value.

These colors are a hit in the market because they give an inviting, relaxing vibe. You can also mix and match depending on the exterior design you like.

On the other hand, strong outdated colors only interest a few people. So, it’s best to stir clear from swatches that include mustard yellow, pink, orange, and purple.

Nonetheless, there’s a slight caveat with this rule. If you can design the colors tastefully, it might give you high resale value. But this would take a lot of work and creativity on your side.

How Is Siding Installed?

The difficulty level of installing siding on your house’s exterior will depend on the type of materials you have.

For example, if you go for vinyl siding, you will notice that each panel has built-in slots where you can hammer the nail that attaches the vinyl on the wall.

However, there’s more to installing wall cladding than nailing them onto the wall. First, it needs proper leveling and cutting of angles. Not to mention the very job-specific equipment needed to get you and the siding up into the air beside your house safely.

Hence, if you’re inexperienced in this task, the best way to ensure that your residing project remains fail-proof is to hire a contractor like us right here at TNT Home Improvements to do it.

Can You Put Siding Over Old Siding?

Yes, in some circumstances you can opt to cover your old siding with new ones and use it as a substrate. But you can only do this if the existing siding is in good condition, free of wear or any critical damages.

However, you must have an expert looking into the quality and condition of the existing siding before you install new siding over it. When you assess it yourself, you might miss some damaged or deteriorating parts, leading to horrible incidents concerning your siding.

Simply put, even though it is acceptable to put new sidings over existing ones, without professional assessment, it can lead to further damages that may cost you more than the average residing expenses.

Is It Better to Remove Old Siding?

It is always better to remove old siding than have it covered with new ones.

Although the former is cheaper, retaining your old siding and having the new one sit on top of it has some drawbacks.

For example, if the old siding could have undetected water damage and placing new siding on top could potentially collapse the entire structure in the future. Likewise, wood rot can happen without knowing it, as the old siding is hidden completely. Similarly, it can be prone to pests and insect damage.

Some siding manufacturers will actually void the warranty of their product if you install it over the old siding and not just directly to a good quality OSB.

Moreover, it is cleaner and smoother to remove the old siding first. Keeping it around can lead to sloppy installation, compromising its look altogether.

Summary

Residing your house may be a big investment, but because you are upgrading the outermost layer of protection and aesthetics, the payoff always justifies the upgrade. This is because your property value increases, plus you get to live in a house that looks and feels good.

With the considerable budget it requires, it is best to hire professionals to install your new siding. This way, you’ll have the confidence that the residing project is done with care, precision, and quality in mind.

If You Are Located in the Northern Colorado/ Southern Wyoming Area, Then Give Us a Call Today at 970-663-2868 or Visit Our Siding Services Page and Fill Out the Contact Form to Make an Appointment to Discuss Your Next Home Improvement Project.

What Is The Best Siding For A Home?

Making the decision to put sidings on the walls of your home is not one that should be taken simply for décor purposes, although most modern siding materials can enhance the outward appearance and even the value of your home. Siding materials also offer protection to you and your home. There are various types of siding materials available, which sometimes makes the choice of material a difficult one.

Polymer sidings are the best siding materials for your home. Polymer sidings provide a greater choice in design and colors and offer superior durability and visual appeal. The low maintenance factor and their neutral chemical composition make them a better choice for your home and the environment!

Buying a family home is a long-term investment that is quite a substantial financial commitment. It makes sense to look after your investment as much as possible to ensure it remains in top condition. The changes and improvements you make to your home can be simply to preserve your investment, while others can help to improve the resale value of your home.

What Is The Purpose For Siding On A Home?

Sidings have multiple purposes for the homeowner and what it offers your home. The degree of these benefits will often be determined by the type of material that you choose for your siding, but we will get to that topic shortly.

Sidings provide the following enhancements to your home.

  • A fresh look for your home. Installing siding on your home can immediately give the exterior of your house a facelift that will make your home look fresh and new.
  • Protection from bad weather. Siding material is not only intended to improve the look of your home but also to offer protection to the walls of your home from the elements. Sun, rain, snow, wind, and cold weather can quickly cause the walls of your home to look old and worse for wear. Siding material not only protects your home but can offer the residents additional protection from heat and cold due to the additional insulation benefits that the siding material offers.
  • Wide range of designs. The broad range in the styles and design of siding material gives you the freedom to choose the particular look and texture that you want for your home siding.
  • Add value to your house. Adding a durable, good quality siding to your home can increase the value and, therefore, the resale value of your home. Of course, the amount of the value increase will be dependent on the siding material that is used.

What Is The Best Siding Material Choice For Your Home?

Traditionally, sidings were made of wood shingles or panels, or sometimes even stone. These natural materials have their beauty, but their lifespan and beauty fade very quickly and require frequent maintenance and upkeep to keep them looking good. The difficulty with stone, which is sometimes called cladding, is that it is expensive, difficult to work with, and heavy. 

Modern siding materials offer more durability, less maintenance, cheaper cost, and a wider range of choices with regards to design and texture.

When it comes to modern siding materials, your only really have two main choices that make sense, and out of the two, there is one that stands out as the obvious choice!

Vinyl and Polymer cladding are the most commonly available siding materials that most homeowners will choose between for their home.

From our perspective here at TNT Home Improvements, there is only one sensible choice for siding material, and that is polymer siding material. 

We have an article that details the specifics of why polymer is a better siding material than vinyl if you would like to read an in-depth comparison, but here is the summary of polymer siding benefits.

  • Durability. Polymer sidings offer greater durability.
  • Customizable. There is a greater choice in style and visual effect in polymer sidings.
  • Low Maintenance. Because of its durability, the level of maintenance required is low.
  • Greater visual or curb appeal. The wider range of design choice allows you to give your home a unique appeal.
  • Seamless joints. Polymer sidings have less visible seams than vinyl sidings, and the seams are more easily hidden.
  • Environmental awareness. Polymer is a more neutral substance, unlike vinyl, which has large amounts of chlorine in its makeup, which poses an environmental risk, especially in the event of a fire.

What Color Siding Provides The Best Resale Value?

As a rule of thumb, lighter, neutral color sidings offer substantially more resale value to your home than very dark or bright flashy colors.

This, however, is a general statement that is usually true to form, but there are other factors that could impact your color choice. You should consider these before choosing a siding color. These are some of those other factors of your home and your neighborhood that you should investigate before deciding on a siding color.

  • Neighborhood trends. If your neighborhood has other houses that are more brightly colored, and you go with plain, neutral colors, your home will not stand out. People looking to buy in a bright, colorful neighborhood will be looking for brighter colors on the home, which could jeopardize your sale options and resale value.
  • Location of your home. If your home is a coastal home, the general trend is either for brighter colors or pastel blues and greens. If you live in an inland area that has more trees around, the appropriate color choices would be more earthy, natural colors and styles.
  • Architectural style of your home. If your home is Victorian style or colonial style, the buyers for these homes usually have a particular color palette in mind when they go shopping for a new home. If your siding color scheme does not match the architecture, a potential buyer may not give your home a second look.
  • Homeowners Association regulations. Some neighborhoods have an H.O.A. that sets regulations to maintain a certain level of quality, style, and design of homes in order to help keep up the overall value of the homes in the area and to keep a certain look and feel across the neighborhood. Going outside these regulations could result in costly fines or the cost of changing the siding. If you have a homeowner’s association in your neighborhood, it would be worth your while to consult the regulations to find out if your color choice is acceptable before you go ahead with the project. 

If there is no real particular style or color trend in your neighborhood, then you are free to add the siding color of your choice to your home. Just be aware, before you go too wild, that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. If you choose bold colors that appeal to you, the next potential buyer may not like the color combinations. 

For the purpose of retaining or improving resale value, it would be prudent to go with more traditional colors for your sidings.

What Color Siding Fades The Least?

Color is not only an important décor decision when choosing the siding color for your home, but also how good your home will look in years to come.

All cladding types will fade over time, but you can limit the visual effect that this will have on your home by making a wise color choice from the outset.

Dark colors are more susceptible to fading, and the fading becomes more apparent sooner than with lighter colored sidings. This is another reason that more delicate colors and gray colors are more popular color choices for sidings than black or other dark or bold colors.

Conclusion

Giving your home a facelift will not only make your home look good and save you on maintenance costs, but it has the potential to improve the desirability of your home and thus the resale value.

If you are still finding the question of siding choice, style, and color to be a bit of a minefield, then that is what we at TNT Home Improvements are here for. We can assist you with professional advice on the right color and style choice of siding for your home.

We have been helping homeowners make these choices since 2005, and our expertise can be a valuable asset in making the right decision to get the best siding for your home!

What is Polymer Siding?

Do you see shake and shingle claddings with cedar patterns on different houses? These are usually polymer siding. Made from polypropylene resin, polymer siding enhances the beauty of your home’s exterior by giving it a unique rustic look. 

They are made using an injection molding process that gives the final siding a three-dimensional pattern in various styles and sizes. The experts inject the molten compound inside the mold and then heat it at a high temperature. Once the molten compound takes shape inside the mold, the experts will cool the mold before taking the siding out.

Polymer molding came into the market in 1990 and became instantly popular because of its designs and low cost. They offer a wide range of color and design options; much more than what other siding materials can provide. Some of the most common types of polymer siding designs include half-round shingles, rough-split shakes, sawmill shingle, and traditional shingles. 

Polymer Siding vs. Vinyl Siding

Many people confuse polymer siding with vinyl siding because they look similar. The main difference between polymer and vinyl siding is the material. 

The primary difference is that Vinyl consists of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resin while Polymer siding contains polypropylene resin. Vinyl is a type of plastic polymer. Polypropylene resin has two essential elements: hydrogen and carbon, making the plastic more neutral. 

On the other hand, PVC resin consists of 30% chlorine. This means vinyl siding is not good for the environment because chlorine produces toxins when incinerated. 

Most vinyl siding is vertical or horizontal. Now, you can make similar-looking polymer siding also, but where Polymer really shines is in making custom molded shapes that emulate other building types like shingle cladding or shake cladding styles.

Another difference between polymer and vinyl siding is their making process. Polymer follows an injection molding process that can turn to three-dimensional designs with different textures, styles, colors, and sizes. Vinyl only makes vertical or horizontal siding.

One of the reasons why people choose polymer siding over vinyl siding is because of their durability. The polypropylene resin used to make the siding lasts for years without requiring monthly maintenance. They are easy to clean and don’t require frequent sealing, repainting, or re-caulking. 

Benefits of polymer siding

Polymer siding not only enhances the beauty of your house but also offers several other benefits:

    • Durable – Polypropylene resin hardens once it cools down. Once a professional finishes installing polymer siding, you can expect it to last for years or even decades. Polypropylene resin is one of the hardest materials in the industry, making polymer siding the toughest and most durable. They don’t crack, chip, peel, warp, or fade away with time. Most importantly, they are suitable for extreme weather conditions and can resist impacts like hailstorms.

    • Customizable – You can ask the expert to customize the polymer siding according to the design of your doors and windows. Or maybe some other design that you have in mind. These siding are customizable because you can mold them into any shape you want. Experts can even mimic the appearance of wood or stone to give a natural look to the siding without compromising the durability or quality. 

    • Low maintenance – The color of polymer siding gets baked at the time of making the siding. This ensures that the color stays for years without requiring repainting or frequent cleaning. It also ensures that the siding looks freshly painted without any regular upkeep. The monsoon rain usually washes away accumulated dust and debris from the siding, thus making sure that you don’t have to invest time in cleaning them manually.

    • Curb Appeal – Polymer siding more closely emulates actual wood because it’s basically a 3d cast created from a mold and then painted to put on those finishing wood-like touches on. Because of the look it can give your house, whether used everywhere or just as an accent piece, it can really up your curb appeal.

    • Seamless – Vinyl siding is very easy to spot by it’s lack of texture and especially by it’s seams. Unlike vinyl siding that is overlapped at different staggered joints, Polymer siding panels are usually designed to but up against each other usually continuing a pattern and/or texture making it very hard to find the seam.

Polymer siding ideas

The exterior of your house is equally important as your interiors and the foundation. You should select siding designs that complement your home’s aesthetics. Since you can customize polymer siding, you can discuss the designs with a professional after showing him pictures of your house. This would not only help to decide the style but also the colors. Contrasting colors may not suit the look of your house when it comes to polymer siding. Therefore, you need to select something that improves the look of your home’s exterior.

But what are some of the designs that you can implement with polymer siding? Here are a few ideas that you can keep in mind.

1. Cool and classical

Sometimes, less is more for your dream home. You don’t need to be colorful with polymer siding. Just stick to two colors, preferably white and dark grey, to make them stand out and make your house look beautiful from a distance. Too many colors may reduce the focus of your home’s exterior color and that’s not what you would want if you have guests coming or maybe buyers who want to buy your house. Keep the colors simple to make your house look classy.

2. Charming and traditional

Horizontal polymer siding won’t look good on narrow, vertical windows. And if you are selecting narrow, vertical siding, then make sure you follow the same patterns for your doors also. A traditional look means following similar patterns to make your house look charming. For this type of style, it’s best to select the same color for your polymer siding as your home’s exterior. 

3. White on white

There is something unique about white exteriors with white siding. Once the professional finishes installing the siding, you will start appreciating the beauty of this combination. Houses with arched windows and doorways are suitable for dome-shaped siding. This is another combination that makes your house look traditional. 

4. Textural elements

Does your house have a stone or brick-designed exterior? If yes, you can go for textural elements in your polymer siding. This will give the siding a similar look to your home’s exterior. It balances the aesthetics, provided you choose similar colors. 

With so many designs available, it won’t be hard to find a polymer siding that fits your house. Just make sure it adds to the aesthetics and doesn’t make your house look odd from a distance. Buyers may not approve of the color or design of the siding if you make the wrong choice. And therefore, always take help from professionals while choosing siding.

If you need high-quality polymer siding, get in touch with us. We can show you some unique designs and colors that would make your home look incredible. Click here to learn more about our siding installation services.

Give TNT a call today at 970-663-2868 or click here to contact us.

The Best Home Siding Options

Exterior siding is a great way to add color and definition to your home. If you are searching for the best home siding options for your house, you have come to the right place. With more than a dozen options out there to choose from, you should be mindful when choosing the best home siding option. There are many things to look for when choosing the best siding option for your home. Some of them include durability, aesthetics, versatility, ease of installation, and water resistance.

Insulated siding options will add an extra layer between your home and the elements. It will prevent the wind and cold from making your loved ones uncomfortable and reduce the monthly energy bills in the process. Most exterior siding options don’t require painting. You don’t have to scrape and paint your home every few years when you install the right siding. If you have a three-bedroom home, you may have to spend over $10,000 to paint it. You will save this cost when you opt for the best exterior siding. This article highlights some of the best exterior siding options for your home.

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl is the most popular exterior siding option in the United States today. It’s low-cost, easy-to-maintain, and versatile. Even though some homeowners are put off by the “plastic looks” of vinyl siding, the wide variety of designs, shapes, and colors of vinyl siding make it one of the most popular options in the country. If you want to install siding yourself, vinyl is the best option for you. It’s easy to install with a few common tools. You can buy vinyl siding at most home improvement stores in the Northern Colorado area. An experienced DIY homeowner can install vinyl siding by following the instructions of the manufacturer. You can save a lot of time and money if you invest in vinyl siding for the exterior of your house.

Brick Siding

Brick siding is made from fired clay and comes in different shapes and sizes. This siding material has been used for centuries and stood the test of time. Mortar is used to hold the brick siding together when installing outside of your home’s wood-frame structure. A membrane is installed between the brick siding and your house to prevent water from penetrating the siding and causing damage over time. When installed properly, brick siding will last a lifetime with a little maintenance on your part. But brick siding installation isn’t a DIY job. It’s labor-intensive and will cost more than most of the other siding options to install. If you want to improve the curb appeal of your home and prolong the lifespan of the siding, you could opt for brick siding for your property.

Wood Siding

Wood siding is another popular exterior siding option for your house. It improves the aesthetics and durability of your home when installed and maintained properly. You may have to maintain the siding by chalking, staining or painting regularly to prevent weather damage over time. Wood siding can easily last the lifetime of your house when maintained properly. Wood siding comes in clapboard, shakes, and shingles. Clapboard uses planks of wood horizontally to enhance the aesthetics of your home. Shingles offer a smooth and consistent look for your home. Most shingles are treated with fire-resistant chemicals to lower the risk of fires.

Stucco Siding

Stucco is made using Portland cement, sand, water, and lime. A galvanized metal screening and a waterproof barrier paper are applied over the exterior of your house before stucco siding is installed. This will provide a great base for stucco siding and protect the walls from underneath. Careful installation is needed to prevent cracks over time because stucco is quite rigid. When stucco siding is installed and maintained properly, it can also last the lifetime of your home.

Fiber-Cement Siding

Fiber-cement siding offers the look of stucco, wood or masonry at a much lower cost. Fiber-cement is a popular siding option for many homeowners. It is termite-resistant, low-maintenance, and non-flammable. Fiber-cement siding is available in a wide variety of styles and textures. You should opt for factory painted siding when investing in fiber-cement siding for your home. Moisture issues are quite common in fiber-cement sidings. Other than that, fiber-cement can last between 20-50 years when maintained properly. You should opt for a quality brand when buying fiber-cement siding for your next home upgrade.

Aluminum Siding

This is another popular siding option for your home. It became popular after World War II. You may hardly tell the difference between aluminum and vinyl siding unless you touch them. Aluminum siding can get dented and the color can fade over time. It may also contract and expand depending on the temperature in the area. Aluminum siding should be painted on a periodical basis to maintain the looks of your property. You should opt for an oil-based paint when painting aluminum siding.

The type of exterior siding you choose should accentuate the character and design of your home. Repairing or replacing exterior siding can be time-consuming and costly. That’s why you need to choose the right material the first time around. Your research plays an important part in this regard. Siding will enhance the overall appearance and beauty of your home. It will completely transform the looks of your home and increase the resale value of your property. Most of the siding materials require little or no maintenance at all. You will spend less time maintaining the exterior of your home with the right siding option.

Installing siding on your property should be done by professional home improvement experts. Make sure you choose TNT Home Improvements for your next home upgrade. We’ve been helping homeowners in Loveland, Fort Collins, Greeley, and the Northern Colorado area upgrade and update their homes since 2005. For more information about our siding upgrade and installation services, click here. We can also help with your next deck, patio cover, pergola, or window upgrade. Call us today at (970) 663-2868.

Proper Siding Installation Can Greatly Enhance the Exteriors of a Home

This is home siding

When you are looking for ways to improve your home, you will look at painting walls, adding new windows, redoing the kitchen and bathrooms and even improving the landscape. One way you can give your home an absolutely new look is with siding installation that can completely change its external appearance. There are a wide variety of options available, nowadays, and you can choose from vinyl, metal, wood or stucco. Your choice can depend on your personal preference, budget and your neighborhood homes, but any material that you choose must be easy to install and maintain. A properly carried out installation can last for years and always have your home looking fresh and neat.

Vinyl siding has improved vastly over the years and you can now get siding with different configurations and shapes, colors and finishes. You can have it looking just like wood, and it is quite easy to fit vinyl siding over any old siding or even over plain plastered walls. It is a siding that never requires being painted as any color that it has is throughout the material. It resists the sun, rain, high humidity, and air pollution. It has a great durability and these sidings have been known to last as long as 40 years. Installed with a proper backing, vinyl siding can also add to the insulation of a home and help to reduce heating and cooling bills.

Metal sidings can be made from steel or aluminum and can even be made to look just like wood. They may be more expensive than vinyl siding, but this siding installation will be better able to resist any fire. Most metal siding can be given permanent coatings that will never require any repainting. Wood siding gives a home a more traditional look but requires careful attention to prevention of rot, termites and may require constant maintenance over the years. Stucco siding is applied over a lath base and makes for siding that is durable and seamless. It is a material that also naturally resists fire.

It is essential that before you start any siding installation, you ensure that your exterior wall surfaces are even and any cracks or defects in it are repaired. You need to take proper care to applying flashing for all openings where water is likely to penetrate. A proper framework or strapping also called furring, is essential to give the siding, immaterial of the chosen material, a proper and firm base on which it can be fixed. Wood strapping is made from a minimum 1″X3″ section and fixed at approximately 16-inch centers. Vertical siding must have the strapping fixed horizontally, while horizontal siding will do better with strapping running vertically. You will require such strapping on all the sides of an opening. It can be a good idea to fill the gap between strapping with some insulation material so that it adds to the insulation value of the walls and thus helps you to reduce utility bills for heating and cooling.

While installing siding is a job that you can undertake if you have the right tools and sufficient DIY skills, it is always advisable to give the work to an experienced contractor, as they will also have the proper equipment and know the various points that have to be taken into consideration during siding installation. This has to take into consideration likely expansion, especially for metal siding, weatherproofing joints, ensuring proper junctions with foundations and roof eaves and many other small points that will give the completed installation durability and make it free of any problems for maintenance. Give us a call and we can advise you on the right material for your home, depending on your requirements and budget.

For more information please visit our Siding page.

The Advantages of New Siding Installation in Loveland, CO

pic of example siding

The health and comfort of your home’s interior is largely dependent on the condition of your home’s exterior. Your roofing and siding play an important role in protecting your home’s interior from the elements, preventing structural water damage and insulating your home from the temperatures and conditions outside. It can be easy to put off new siding installation in Loveland, CO, but it’s always best to take care of siding replacement right away. There are many advantages to getting new siding for your home:

  • Increased energy efficiency: Siding that isn’t installed properly or that is especially old doesn’t do a great job at keeping your home insulated from outside temperatures. New siding tends to be designed to provide efficient insulation so you can better control your home’s temperature and comfort level and save money on your monthly energy bill.
  • Structural protection: Sometimes, your home’s siding can incur damage from rainy or stormy weather, impacts from debris or just from regular wear and tear over time. While these problems might start as a surface issue, the damage can become exacerbated over time and eventually cause major structural issues in your home. By addressing damaged siding promptly, you can avoid paying a hefty price to repair more extensive damage to your home. Additionally, if your home has already had some structural damage, you can often fix the problem during a siding installation project. During the installation, your old siding will be stripped off, making it easier to access and repair structural damage.
  • Improved appearance of your home: Siding that is old, worn down or damaged can be a major eyesore. If you’re feeling unhappy with the appearance of your home’s exterior, new siding can make a huge difference. Your options are wide open when it comes to selecting new siding, so you can customize your choice depending on your home and the materials, colors and features that you like the best.
  • Increased home value: If you anticipate that you might list your home on the market in the future, making an investment in your home’s exterior can really pay off. Generally, the outside of your home is the first impression that potential buyers will have, so it’s important that your home’s exterior is in good condition. New siding can make your home look a lot better to potential buyers, and it can also save them the time and money it would take to replace it themselves, which might make them more likely to buy at a better price.

With so many benefits that come along with having new siding installed on your home, what are you waiting for? You can get the ball rolling on siding installation in Loveland, CO with help from our team at TNT Home Improvements. We provide exceptional home improvement services that include siding installation, patio and deck construction, window installation and deck cover construction to help you improve the appearance, safety and value of your home. We offer free estimates for our services—just give us a call today to get started!

Click here to learn more about our siding installation services.

Cleaning Tips for Vinyl and Polymer Siding in Fort Collins, CO

vinyl siding home example

It is time to get the winter grime off your vinyl and polymer siding in Fort Collins, CO! You may be tempted to spray it down with a power washer or use a harsh spot cleaner, but that is not recommended. Your siding stands up to weather conditions, but cleaning chemicals can damage it. If you want to clean your siding thoroughly and keep it intact at the same time, follow these five tips:

  • Avoid harsh handling: Using an abrasive scrubber like steel wool can scratch or dent siding. Choose soft cloths or brushes for scrubbing. Your best tool for cleaning is a long-handled soft-bristle brush that covers more area and reaches high places.
  • Choose the right cleaning solutions: You do not need to spend lots of money on a cleaning solution. A mix of 70 percent water and 30 percent white vinegar works well on siding. This solution removes dirt, light mold and mildew stains as well as any product you purchase at the hardware store. If you need something stronger, mix one-third cup of laundry detergent, two-thirds cup of powdered household cleaner, and one-quarter cup of bleach. Mix this combination in one gallon of water. If you have extensive landscaping around your house, a green cleaner like Simple Green will clean your siding without killing your plants.
  • Try this technique: Start at the foundation and work towards the roof. Rinse as you wash to avoid streaks and marks as siding dries. On a clear day, siding will dry quickly, which is why you never want to let the cleaning solution linger.
  • Be careful with spot cleaners: If you find a spot that will not come out of your siding, avoid detergents like Windex or Lysol. Not only will they fail to measure up to tough stains like grease, grass, ink or crayon, but they will compromise the surface as well. Use a bleach and water solution and rinse it as you clean the stain. If you find rust, try a product like Super Iron Out or Instant Rust Out. Before you clean, find the stains first, so you have the right spot cleaner prepared. Never use straight bleach, grease removers or solvents like nail polish remover. Organic solvents are no better.
  • Do not rely on pressure washers: Siding manufacturers do not recommend pressure washers because homeowners tend to set them too high. However, it is likely you have few options for covering the exterior of your home thoroughly—especially during the rinsing stage. Keep the stream flat and do not set to full pressure. That will dislodge siding and dent it. Use caution around plumbing connections, windows and gutters. You want to use the pressure washer only when necessary because there is a high probability that the water will get behind the siding and grow mold. This is not a hasty hose-off job; it requires some refinement.

Do you need help with your vinyl and polymer siding in Fort Collins, CO? If so, call TNT Home Improvements for repair and installation of home siding this summer.

Click here to learn more about our siding installation services.

What Type of Siding Installation Is Right for Your Home?

home featuring siding in the winter

Whether you’re building a new home or considering having your home re-sided, you’ll be faced with some tough choices. There’s a dizzying array of siding options out there, mainly due to how many materials are available to be used for this purpose. How do you choose the best one for your home?

You’ll want to consider a number of factors when choosing siding installation in Fort Collins, CO. These include energy efficiency, climate, aesthetics, durability and cost. Each homeowner has a different idea of what they’re looking for. Read on to find the best option for you and your family:

  • Metal: Aluminum or steel siding will give your home a modern appearance. It’s very low maintenance, durable and fire-resistant. However, improperly installed metal siding may rust or fade. It can also be more expensive than some other options. It’s also prone to dents and scratching.
  • Stucco: This is common with Spanish-style homes and requires three coats of mixture affixed to wood and mesh. This unique look comes in a variety of different colors, is very durable and is easy to fix if damaged. However, the effects of weathering are often evident on stucco, and it’s not a good option in wet climates.
  • Wood: Whether it’s pine, spruce or redwood, this is a popular option because of its classic aesthetic. It’s energy-efficient and easily customizable. The light weight may also reduce labor costs. Drawbacks include the possibility of termites damaging the wood and the fact that any stain or paint will need to be replaced every couple of years. Using fiber cement mimics the look of wood, but without many of these issues.
  • Stone: Unfortunately, stone is very costly to install. At the same time, once it’s installed, it will last a lifetime. Real stone is considered to have a timeless look, although stone veneer provides a similar aesthetic at a lower cost. This is because it is much lighter than real stone, bringing down labor and transportation costs.
  • Vinyl: This is a popular option because it’s inexpensive, comes in a variety of colors and is easy to maintain. Some people don’t love the generic look of vinyl siding. It’s also not waterproof and may be damaged in extreme weather conditions. Still, about one third of American homes have vinyl siding for a reason.
  • Brick: Many people love the look of a brick home—and they know this material will withstand the test of time. Brick is so solid that it may bring down your home insurance costs. However, it isn’t customizable because it can’t be repainted. It’s also one of the more expensive options for siding installation. Veneer brick can bring down these costs.

TNT Home Improvements is the leader in siding installation in Fort Collins, CO. Our licensed and trained team offers excellent customer service and expert craftsmanship for every homeowner we work with. Contact us today for a free estimate and to learn more about our exciting siding options, one of which is sure to be perfect for your home.

Click here to learn more about our siding installation services.