Vinyl Vs. Aluminum Siding
Choosing the type of siding to use on a house can be difficult. Both aluminum and vinyl siding are popular choices. It is important to know the benefits and drawbacks of each type of siding before deciding on what kind of siding to use for a remodeling project. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
-
Features
-
Vinyl siding is made from plastic materials formed and molded into the desired shape and width. Aluminum siding is made from sheets of aluminum cut into strips. In the past, aluminum siding was always used. However, in recent years almost 80 percent of all homes with siding were covered in vinyl. The main differences between the two are how they perform in adverse weather, weight, cost of installation and appearance.
Cost
-
For the most part. aluminum and vinyl siding are relatively close in price. Vinyl siding pieces cost about $3 a strip.Aluminum pieces cost about $4 a strip. However, the cost of the siding itself is not the only cost consideration. Vinyl is easier to cut. It does not bend out of shape either. Vinyl is much easier to install, which lowers labor costs. Aluminum takes special metal-cutting tools to install, which adds to the cost.
-
Style
-
Style makes a large difference between vinyl and aluminum siding. Vinyl siding will offer a slightly more modern appearance. The siding color is part of the original siding's appearance. It is not necessary to paint over vinyl siding. However, vinyl siding can fade in the sun and become mildewed. Aluminum siding creates an old-fashioned appearance. Aluminum siding must be painted. The paint can chip over time, which can create an unsightly appearance. However, aluminum siding can be repainted.
Environmental Impact
-
Vinyl is made of plastic materials that are not biodegradable. The development of vinyl requires the use of processes and chemicals that can be very hazardous to the health of the manufacturers. The disposal of vinyl can also be difficult because when the plastic is melted, harmful chemicals are released into the air. Because aluminum is a natural-occurring metal, there are not as many chemicals used in its production. Aluminum is also much easier to recycle.
Durability
-
Vinyl siding is almost twice as thick as aluminum siding. This means that vinyl siding is a little more durable. However, aluminum can bend slightly without harm to the siding, where vinyl siding is brittle and can break easily. Over time, aluminum siding can get dented and scratched, exposing the inner metal. Vinyl siding does not have this problem, because the color is used throughout the piece. However, vinyl siding does fade under direct sunlight.
-
