Frequently Asked Questions about Siding
At Roof Right, a residential roofing company in Carroll County, MD, we have many frequently asked questions about siding. Today we’d like to take a look through some of those questions and provide some insight into the different types of siding we offer and use.
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding was introduced in the 1950’s as an alternative to aluminum siding. Today it has become the most frequently used siding option in the United States. It consists of two layers, the top layer or cap stock and a second layer known as the substrate. These layers predominantly consist of polyvinyl chloride and resin. The top layer uses a titanium dioxide for both coloration and protection against UV light damage. The second layer contains limestone to aid in the manufacturing process and decrease costs. Vinyl siding comes in a variety of colors and can mimic architectural details that were once made of other siding materials.
Does it require any maintenance?
Vinyl siding does not require much, if any, maintenance. It never needs to be painted, and if it is damaged, it can be easily replaced. To maintain a fresh appearance, it should be washed at least once a year.
Is vinyl siding durable/weather resistant?
Vinyl siding is made to last a very long time. Warranties typically last from 20 to 40 years depending on the thickness, with many manufacturers now offering lifetime warranties that can be transferred to the next owner. It is resistant to heat, cold, and moisture with certification to handle winds up to 110 miles per hours.
How much does it cost?
Vinyl siding is by far the most affordable siding option on the market. The value-added advantages of vinyl include its low total installed cost–lower than all other materials because vinyl siding goes up faster and doesn’t need painting. Also, on average, homeowners who remodel with vinyl will recoup nearly 80% on the cost of the installation, thus increasing the value of the home.
Insulated Siding
Insulated siding is essentially vinyl siding with rigid foam insulation that is laminated or permanently attached to the panel. Insulated siding is installed on the exterior of a structure and helps reduce energy loss through framing or other building materials.
Does insulated siding make a home more energy efficient/green?
Described by developers as “green building/” insulated siding may make homes more environmentally friendly. By reducing energy consumption, insulated siding can reduce air pollution. According to manufacturers, insulated siding is manufactured to last over 50 years, potentially reducing landfill contributions. Some products also include an organic, non-toxic termite and insect repellent. Besides reducing energy consumption, insulated siding is breathable, allowing water vapor to escape, which can provide protection against mold, rot and mildew and help maintain healthy indoor air quality.
What does it cost to install insulated siding?
Not all insulated vinyl siding is created equal. The higher the siding grade, the more colors, styles and options are available. However, the key driver in determining the price of the siding is going to be the size of the home. Typically, insulated vinyl siding will cost 20-30% more per square foot than traditional vinyl siding.
Is it more durable than traditional vinyl siding?
Insulated vinyl siding is manufactured to withstand harsh weather and will not buckle under impact of any sort very easily. The rigid foam laminated on the back of the panels allows insulated siding to be set symmetrically, which helps the panels not cave at the joints. It also requires very little if any maintenance and never needs painting.
Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber cement siding as the name implies is made from cement, wood fiber (cellulose), sand and other components. Fiber cement siding can be manufactured to have the realistic appearance of wood, stucco or masonry. In appearance, fiber cement siding most often consists of overlapping horizontal boards imitating wooden siding, clapboard and shingles.
How long does it last?
Fiber cement siding is said to be more durable than wood, but does require some maintenance. It is termite and water resistant, non-combustible and can be warrantied for as long as 50 years. Some fiber cement siding may be required to be painted every 4-5 years depending on the top coat applied.
How wind resistant are cedar roofs?
Cedar roofs are naturally wind and weather resistant. Cedar shakes and shingles have been tested for their quality and durability against wind/weather damage. Cedar roofs also do great with hail and ice conditions.
Is fiber cement siding environmentally friendly?
Fiber cement is known as a sustainable or green alternative to traditional vinyl or aluminum siding. With its overall durability and low maintenance requirements, fiber cement siding offers little if any waste. Also, some manufactures are now using fiber cement siding made from recycled materials. Is it appropriate for all climates? It is appropriate for all climates. It is water and rot resistant, making it ideal for hot and humid climates. It also has weathering characteristics, strength and impact resistance, making it a superb choice for more harsh climates.
Cedar Siding
Cedar siding is simply siding cut from (most commonly) the Western Red Cedar. It features great dimensional stability, which allows it to keep its shape while also taking to nailing and staining well. Western Cedar will help keep warmth during the winter months and keep interiors cool during the summer.
Is it expensive?
Cedar siding usually has a mid to high range cost. Since there is maintenance required with cedar siding, this should also be taken into consideration when determining cost.
How long does it last?
Cedar siding endures the elements well, and if maintained properly, can last many years. Some manufacturers offer warranties of 25 years or more. Cedar is classified as a durable species. The proper application of a finish coat will allow it to last decades. As with all wood, avoid having it touch the ground.
Is there a lot of maintenance?
Cedar siding requires maintenance. It is recommended that cedar siding be washed with a low-pressure washer to remove cobwebs, dust and other dirt particles. Cedar siding also requires staining every few years. There will be no difficulty to determine when it is time to re-stain. How well the siding as weather the elements determines how often to re-stain. The most damaging element to cedar siding is moisture. It is recommended that you inspect the siding regularly and make any minor repairs to help prevent moisture damage.
About Roof Right
At Roof Right we have realized customer service and trust are poorly lacking in the roofing industry. That is why our roofing company takes pride in our exceptional service which includes showing up when we say we will, providing a thorough 17-point inspection, listening to you so we can make a quick and thorough diagnosis of your roofing problem, and cleaning up after ourselves as we work. In addition to offering residential roofing services and roof repairs in Maryland. Roof Right is proud to offer the following services:
Roofing & Gutter Maintenance – Your roof, just like your car, should get routine inspections. Your roof gets more abuse from the elements than any other part of your home and preventative maintenance is a key element to
Skylights & Solatubes – Brighten your home with natural sunlight with skylights &
Gutters – Installing a new seamless gutter system is one of the most critical aspects of all home repairs. Improving the drainage around the home can have a significant impact on the stability of the foundation and the life of your home. Roof Right installs gutters and gutter guards that will efficiently channel water away from your home. Learn more about gutters.
Siding – Looking to add curb appeal along with improving your homes energy efficiency? No paint. No stain. No hassles. Vinyl siding delivers strength, durability, and beauty of real wood with a variety of design options and multiple color options. Based on an average size home, repainting can cost thousands of dollars every few years. Vinyl siding never needs painting, caulking or patching because, unlike wood, it won’t crack, peel, rot or split. Roof Right carries siding from the best manufacturers in the industry, including Mastic, CertainTeed, James Hardie. Learn more about siding.
Windows – Reduce your energy bills & increase the curb appeal of your home with energy efficient windows installed by Roof Right! There are hundreds of vinyl window brands on the market today – but they are not all created equal. Many ordinary vinyl windows are designed only for low cost, not for value. We install top-of-the-line, energy efficient windows for long-lasting great looks. We carry a wide selection of energy efficient products from trusted manufacturers. Learn more about windows.
Doors – Roof Right and ProVia® are dedicated to making entry doors the professional way. ProVia entry doors are energy efficient, built to quality standards and gives you many choices to entry-level doors that are sold through box stores. Roof Right installers have attended entry systems and storm door training with ProVia®. We have software that will allow you to build your new entry door on our computer so you can see the many different options and price ranges available. ProVia® builds
Decks & Patios – We can help you design a deck for your home that can bring you many years of enjoyment and improve your home’s value. Let us guide you through the design and construction of your dream deck. From designing the deck for your needs and