Factors That Can Influence the Lifespan of Vinyl Siding in Plymouth Michigan
From the siding to the sealant, there are many factors that influence how long your vinyl siding in Plymouth Michigan will last. You can extend its life by following proper installation and maintenance procedures. Here’s a look at the common factors that affect vinyl siding lifespan.
Factors That Can Influence the Lifespan of Vinyl Siding in Plymouth Michigan
The very first thing you’ll need to consider for your home’s vinyl siding is how well it is installed. Improper installation can mean problems right from the start. Proper installation is the number one way to extend the life span of your siding. It should be installed by a professional siding contractor who can ensure that it’s done correctly and meets your local building codes. Improper installation could expose your home or building to water damage, which can cause blistering and premature deterioration of the siding material.
Weather conditions
If weather conditions in your area are extreme with heavy rain, snow, hail, or high wind, you may want to consider holding off on having vinyl siding installed until these conditions pass. This will help reduce the risk of improperly fastened siding coming loose and exposing your home to moisture damage.
Maintenance and cleaning
It’s important for you to regularly inspect your vinyl siding and make minor repairs when necessary. If you find any cracks, holes or loose seams in the material, they should be sealed immediately to prevent moisture infiltration. You should also pay attention to your home’s gutters and downspouts so that water is directed away from the sides of your house.
The type of siding you choose
Choosing a thicker grade of vinyl siding will increase its longevity because it’s made with more material than other grades. Vinyl manufacturers use different formulas that include varying amounts of plasticizers, which are oils that help prolong the life span of the material by reducing cracking and other signs of age-related wear. Thicker grades cost more but tend to last twice as long as thinner grades.
Color
The color you choose can have a big impact on the lifespan of your siding, especially if it’s a darker hue. Exposure to sunlight for extended periods of time will cause dark colors to fade or even bleach out at a much faster rate than lighter colors such as tan, gray, and white. If you’re going to install vinyl siding in a darker hue, plan on having it resprayed every five years or so to help maintain its appearance.
The exterior finish it’s applied over
You should always apply vinyl siding over an underlayment that can protect your existing exterior surface from moisture damage and simplify any future repairs. For instance, wood requires the use of plywood, which is more susceptible to fungal decay, rotting, and termite damage.
The flashing used around your chimney
The most commonplace for leaks in vinyl siding is around the chimney. This is due to poor installation practices that aren’t corrected with flashing, which provides an extra layer of protection against moisture infiltration. When these types of problems are found early on, they can usually be resolved by applying additional pieces of flashing over the affected area. It’s best if you consult a professional roofing contractor to inspect this part of your home before getting new siding installed.
The climate where it’s installed
If you’re installing vinyl siding in a particularly harsh climate, such as one that experiences long, cold winters followed by hot, humid summers, you may want to consider paying a little extra for a more durable material. This will help offset the costs of having to replace your siding materials every few years.
Heat resistance
Vinyl siding has different heat resistance ratings that range from standard to low-heat grades. Choosing the latter will double the life span of your siding because it can withstand higher temperatures and is less susceptible to bubbling, cracking, and peeling in high-heat regions.
Vinyl siding is a popular choice for homeowners due to its low maintenance requirements and ease of installation, but it isn’t perfect. To maximize the lifespan of your vinyl siding and reduce the chance of costly repairs down the road, always involve an experienced professional and select the highest quality product for your specific climate. Be sure to call Home Pros Plymouth today at (734) 548-9911 for details on vinyl siding repair or replacement for your home. They offer free quotes and 24/7 emergency roofing and siding service for your home.
