Vinyl siding is durable, resistant to mold, eco-friendly, and relatively easy to maintain. The list of vinyl siding benefits could go on and on. But the truth is that no matter how great this type of siding is, it will wear out eventually.
So if you’re in the market to replace your vinyl siding, you may be wondering what to expect. How often should you replace vinyl siding? And how long will it last? What type of siding should you choose?
We have answers to all your most common questions about replacing vinyl siding. Check out our guide to learn more.
How Often Should You Replace Vinyl Siding?
The answer to how often you should replace vinyl siding depends on the climate in your area, how well you maintain the siding, and several other factors. For example, vinyl siding that is cleaned with a pressure washer several times a year will last longer than siding that is never washed.
But on average, you can expect to replace your siding roughly every 20 years. And even if it technically lasts up to 40 years, it won’t protect your house from the elements as well as it should (and it might start looking a little dilapidated).
What Is the Life Expectancy of Vinyl Siding?
Most vinyl siding lasts around 20-30 years. But some siding can last even longer, depending on how much sun hits the side of the house and how extreme the weather is in the area. Keep in mind that you may eventually end up wanting to replace your vinyl siding because it is faded and worn-looking, even though the siding may still be effective after 20 years.
Signs You Need to Replace Your Siding
Clearly, the life expectancy of vinyl siding varies a lot. How do you know when you need to replace your particular siding? Fortunately, there are many telltale signs that will help you determine when the timing is right.
Here are 10 common clues that tell you your vinyl or wood siding should be replaced soon.
1. Rot
Rotting is never a good thing when it comes to your home, and your siding is no different. It may take some time to spot rotting siding, so look underneath the boards and look out for warped areas. You may find soft, rotting wood underneath, which tells you it’s time to replace your siding.
2. Crumbling
Are bits of your siding falling to the ground? Or maybe you notice holes or fragile areas of siding? This is another sign that it’s probably time to replace it.
3. Cracking
Sometimes, vinyl siding can become cracked and loose, especially after a harsh storm. If just a few boards are cracking, you may be able to replace them, but if most of your siding is damaged, it’s best to replace all of it.
4. Gaps
Gaps might show up in your siding if there’s excessive moisture on the exterior walls of your home, which can be particularly troublesome if you have wood siding. Anywhere water is collecting is a spot where bugs and mice might be able to come in the house too. This can be an important sign that it’s time to replace wood siding with vinyl.
5. Higher Energy Bills
You may not see any visible signs of damage to your siding, but there are other clues that may indicate it’s time to replace it. For instance, higher energy bills could be a sign that your insulation and siding aren’t doing their job as well as they could and need to be replaced.
6. Lots of Required Upkeep
If you’re letting things slip when it comes to cleaning and maintaining your siding, it’s best to replace it with something lower-maintenance. Fortunately, vinyl requires little to no upkeep, so you won’t have to worry about costly damage if you don’t refinish or clean your siding regularly.
7. Bulging Panels
Bulging panels are easy to spot—and a clear sign that it’s time to install new siding. As with cracks and gaps, bulges are an indicator that water is trapped underneath your siding, which could cause more trouble down the road.
8. Mold
If you can see mold growing on the outside of your siding, you can assume there’s even more mold growing underneath. Mold growth means your siding is retaining water, and if left untreated, it could lead to more expensive replacements later on.
9. Interior Paint Is Peeling
When your vinyl is really in need of replacement, you may even see signs from the inside of your house. So if you notice peeling paint or wallpaper, look to the outside of the house. Your siding may not be protecting your home from rain and snow as it should.
10. Faded Siding
The color of all siding fades over time, but if your siding has completely faded, it must be really old. This means your siding probably isn’t effective anymore and should be replaced soon.
Should You Install Siding Over Existing Siding?
It’s never a good idea to install new siding over existing siding. Why? Because doing so could compromise the performance of your new siding in the long-term. The only way to guarantee that the job is done right is by taking off old siding before you install the new siding. Doing so will let you know what’s going on underneath, and you may find more damage that needs to be taken care of before replacing the siding.
Reasons to Hire a Professional
You know your vinyl needs replacing, but you may be debating about whether or not to hire a professional. Here are just a few reasons why it’s always in your best interest to invest in professional installation.
1. Make Sure the Job is Done Right
Your vinyl will last decades when installed correctly, but it’s important to make sure the job is done right the first time around. Hiring a professional will ensure you get expert installation that will stand the test of time. No amount of DIY videos on YouTube can make up for the years of experience a professional has gathered over time.
2. Save More Money Over Time
You may think you’re saving money by installing vinyl yourself, but in reality, you may end up spending more over time. Why? Because an amautuer job could be a costly mistake in the long run. If you end up installing the vinyl incorrectly, your vinyl will not be as durable and long-lasting, meaning you’ll have to re-install it sooner. Or worse—your home could require costly repairs as a result of mold, rot, and other water damage.
3. Professional Appearance
Vinyl siding isn’t just popular for its functionality—it also greatly enhances the curb appeal of your home. Yet if you attempt to install siding yourself, you may end up with a less-than-impressive final product. To ensure the siding looks straight, even, and aesthetically pleasing, hire a professional to complete the job.
4. Get an Expert Opinion
Sometimes your home requires more than just new vinyl siding. Or, on the other end of the spectrum, you may not need to replace as much vinyl siding as you thought. You might be able to do some research on the internet, but you can only know for sure if you bring in a professional to take a look. Someone experienced in vinyl siding installation will help you know exactly what your home needs.
5. Save Time
Most people don’t want to spend their precious weekend replacing vinyl siding. And when you hire a professional, you won’t have to. Your time is valuable, and you can earn back your leisure time by letting an expert take care of the task for you. You’ll be glad to have more time to dedicate to other important projects or to spend time with those you care about.
6. Lasting Results Backed up by Warranty
With all the time and effort it takes to install vinyl siding, you certainly don’t want to have to turn around and do it again a few years later. Yet this can sometimes happen if you’re a novice trying to install siding on your own. Get guaranteed lasting results by bringing in a professional who stands by their work by offering a warranty on their services. See how DMG Exteriors’ warranty, financing, materials, and installation stand up to the competition.
Hire a Professional Today
Don’t want to spend all your spare time replacing vinyl siding? Let the professionals at DMG Exteriors handle the job for you. We’re experts in repairing and replacing all types of siding. Contact us today to learn more about our siding services and affordable financing options.
