Answers To Your Siding Questions

How long can I realistically expect siding to last on my house?

Most people are under the impression that all vinyl siding is the same. However, there are many different levels of quality. The standard rule is, “the cheaper the price, the shorter the life of the product.” At Master’s Roofing, all of our siding products come with a 25-year warranty on the installation, and our product warranties vary based on the product you choose to have installed. All of our products are priced to fit your budget.

How much can vinyl siding increase the value of a home?

People love maintenance free siding (or anything, for that matter!) You might want to look into the various styles of vinyl siding – there are various grades and some are even insulating!

How does vinyl siding compare with other siding materials?

It’s almost no contest. When compared to wood, brick, stone, stucco, and metal sidings on the basis of initial cost, maintenance costs, appearance, durability and value, vinyl siding is clearly superior. You can expect the highest quality and lasting beauty. And most vinyl siding never needs painting or staining. It doesn’t chip, peel, dent or rot, so you can forget costly repairs. Just rinse occasionally with a garden hose. And because vinyl is the preferred siding for more and more homeowners, it retains most of its installed cost. Moreover, premium vinyl siding provides all the beauty of expensive wood sidings with your choice of smooth or grained surfaces; rich, low-gloss colors; and a variety of classic siding profiles.

Isn’t it less costly to just repaint my home?

If you plan to move within the next three years, the answer may be “yes.” But if you plan to stay in your home longer than that, the calculations begin to heavily favor vinyl siding. Compare the ongoing costs of painting every three to five years to a one-time investment in new vinyl siding. For most homeowners vinyl siding is by far the better long-term value.

How does the cost of vinyl siding compare to the added resale value it provides?

In terms of adding resale value to your home, vinyl siding is one of the best investments you can make. In its annual survey of project cost versus added value, Remodeling magazine said, “the highest payback comes from projects that give an older home the same features that have become standard in new homes.” Exterior improvements such as the installation of vinyl siding also make a home more attractive on the market. Another point to keep in mind: if, like many homeowners, you add insulation to an older home at the same time you’re having vinyl siding installed, you add even greater value and market appeal to your home.

Are there any other materials that are better than vinyl?

Not when it comes to siding. Vinyl siding’s outstanding features and benefits have made it the most popular siding material in America today. And because vinyl is the preferred siding for more and more homeowners, it retains most of its installed cost.

Is vinyl siding really as durable as everyone says?

Yes. The correct technical name for the material used in vinyl siding is polyvinyl chloride. It’s a strong, durable, proven material that has earned a solid reputation for its beauty and permanence. It is used in automotive applications, medical devices, defense weapons, appliances, floor coverings, and of course, home construction. It’s ideal as an exterior material because vinyl siding doesn’t rot, crack, dent or warp. Plus it never peels or blisters. And because the color goes completely through most siding, it never has to be scraped, sanded or painted.

How do I choose a reputable siding contractor?

First and foremost, make an informed decision. Get references and look at previous work. Word-of-mouth recommendations from neighbors or friends who have recently re-sided their houses are an excellent start. You may also want to ask about liability insurance, customer satisfaction policies and professional credentials. The relationship you have with your contractor is extremely important. Choose someone whose skills you trust, someone qualified to perform the task required, and someone you can work with comfortably.

If painting isn’t required, how do I maintain my vinyl siding?

There really is no maintenance, just occasional cleaning. Ordinarily, the cleaning action of rainfall will be adequate to wash your vinyl siding. However, vinyl siding and soffit should be washed periodically by hosing with a garden hose and clear water, particularly in those areas not exposed directly to rain. If you desire to do a more thorough cleaning, or where high soil collection conditions occur, use a soft-bristled, long-handled washing brush. It attaches to your garden hose and makes washing your siding easier.

Is one season better than another to have my new siding installed?

Not really. You can have your vinyl siding installed in any season, as your schedule and budget allow. But keep in mind that some contractors are more available during the off-season. Regardless of when you have your new siding installed, you’ll enjoy the immediate benefits of improved appearance, as well as the long-term benefits of durability and easy maintenance.