Vertical Vinyl Siding: A Comprehensive Guide

Having a home, it's essential you ensure its exterior looks beautiful while the interior remains secured and energy-efficient. One brilliant way to achieve both is by applying horizontal or vertical panels of vinyl siding to your home. Today we'll focus on Vertical Vinyl Siding.

What is Vertical Vinyl Siding?

Vertical vinyl siding, also referred to as 'Board and Batten', provides particular architectural aesthetics to the exterior of any property through its distinctive, vertical patterns. Unlike traditional horizontal siding, vertical siding gives homes a unique and eye-catching appearance.

The Unique Characteristics & Design of Vertical Vinyl Siding

Vertical vinyl siding features long, broad planks arranged and fastened vertically. The look is created using alternating wide and narrow vertical panels. This design adds a unique sense of depth and dimension, creating a timeless, attractive aesthetic.

• Its distinctive exterior look is perfect for certain architectural designs and styles--particularly for homes that have high peaks or prefer a farm-style or rustic aesthetic.
• Generally, the wide panels simulate the look of cedar boards, while the narrower ones replicate the batten strip used to seal the spaces between the boards.
• The batten also creates a pronounced shadow line, contributing to the unique depth and satisfying visual contrast of the siding.

The Composition of Vertical Vinyl Siding

So what does vertical vinyl siding consist of? Let's take a look:

• The core ingredient is PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), a highly durable and robust material.
• The siding includes 80% PVC and 20% other different ingredients that aid in its durability, color retention, and resistance to multiple elements.
• To make the siding more resistant and hard-wearing, manufacturers often add components like titanium dioxide, an agent that helps to prevent ultraviolet degradation.

The Cost of Vertical Vinyl Siding

Installing vertical vinyl siding is a bit more costly than its horizontal counterpart; this is due to the additional labor required for its installation. Extra steps like applying the underlayment flat and horizontal mean more work-plus the process requires more specialty pieces, thereby increasing the costing.

However, it is yet cheaper than other siding materials like wood or brick. It provides excellent durability and little maintenance needs. Therefore, vertical vinyl siding is an extremely cost-effective long-term investment for your home.

How to Maintain Vertical Vinyl Siding

While vertical vinyl siding needs little maintenance, homeowners can follow a few steps further to prolong its longevity:

• Regular Cleaning: The primary maintenance starts with cleaning the vinyl siding once or twice a year to prevent mold, mildew, and grime build-up.
• Handling Damages: If there are any cracks or damages, they should be handled immediately to prevent more severe problems in the future.
• Avoiding Heat: Avoid direct exposure to high heat as it could lead to warping of the vinyl siding.

Frequently Asked Questions about Vertical Vinyl Siding

How Important is the Quality of the Vertical Vinyl Siding?

The quality of vertical vinyl siding is extremely crucial. Higher quality vinyl siding not only lasts longer, but also maintains color better and can withstand harsh environmental conditions, such as UV light and extreme temperatures. High-quality siding usually has warranty coverage, and investing in quality upfront is generally more cost-effective in the long run.

What are Some Maintenance Tips for Vertical Vinyl Siding?

The maintenance for vertical vinyl siding is relatively straightforward and easy. It is highly stain-resistant, which means dirt or grime can be cleaned off with a simple solution of mild detergent and water. For tougher stains, a soft brush with gentle rubbing will serve the purpose. It is advisable to rinse the siding at least once a year, especially if you live in a high dust or pollen area.

How is Vertical Vinyl Siding Different from Horizontal Vinyl Siding?

While both the types of vinyl siding serve the same purpose—they protect your home from the elements and rough weather conditions—the main difference lies in the aesthetic appearance. The direction of siding (vertical versus horizontal) can drastically change the look of your home. Vertical vinyl siding is often chosen for a more distinctive, rustic or contemporary look.

Does Vertical Vinyl Siding Fade Over Time?

Like any other exterior building material, vertical vinyl siding can fade over time due to exposure to the elements. However, modern vinyl siding often includes anti-fading technology and UV-resistant coatings that can significantly slow down this process.

Is Vertical Vinyl Siding Good for Weather Insulation?

Vertical vinyl siding is an excellent choice for weather insulation. It has insulating properties that can keep your home warm during the winter and cool during the summer, helping to reduce energy costs. Many types of vertical vinyl siding also come with foam backing for an extra layer of insulation.

How Cost Effective is Vertical Vinyl Siding?

Vertical vinyl siding is quite cost-effective especially when considering maintenance and replacement costs. While upfront costs may be higher than other siding options, its durability, low maintenance, and potential energy cost savings in the long run make it a cost-effective choice.

How to Repair Cracked or Damaged Vertical Vinyl Siding?

Repairing cracked or damaged vertical vinyl siding is a reasonably straightforward process. Minor cracks can often be repaired with caulk or sealant. For more significant damage, the damaged section of the siding can typically be replaced without having to redo the entire wall.

How Long Does Vertical Vinyl Siding Last?

The lifespan of vertical vinyl siding significantly depends on its quality and maintenance. Barring severe weather conditions or accidents, most high-quality vinyl siding could last between 20 to 50 years. Regular maintenance can keep your siding looking its best while maximizing its lifespan.

Can Vertical Vinyl Siding be Painted?

Yes, vertical vinyl siding can be painted. However, it's crucial that the right type of paint is used and that it's applied properly for a lasting finish. The employing of a light color is recommended as darker colors can absorb more heat and cause the vinyl to warp.

What Factors to Consider When Choosing Vertical Vinyl Siding Colors?

When choosing colors for vertical vinyl siding, consider the overall appearance of your home, the style, the roof color, and the environmental surroundings. You might also want to consider how the color might change throughout the day with different lighting conditions and whether the color might fade over time.

What is the Installation Process for Vertical Vinyl Siding?

While the exact process can vary, installing vertical vinyl siding typically involves removing any old siding, preparing the wall with house wrap or insulation, installing the new siding from bottom to top, and sealing all seams and edges. Depending on the size and style of the house, professional installation might take a few days to over a week.

Pros of Vertical Vinyl Siding

Durability and Maintenance

Long-lasting Material

Vertical vinyl siding is known for its enduring resilience against weather conditions and damage. This type of siding can last for years without showing signs of wear or tear. Its construction is amenable to various harsh conditions, such as heavy rain, strong winds, heat, and cold without peeling, cracking, or rotting.

Low-maintenance

Another considerable benefit of vertical vinyl siding is its low maintenance requirements. This siding is practically self-sufficient once installed. It does not require annual painting like wooden siding, reducing owners' future expenses and effort in upkeep.

Aesthetic Versatility

Variety of Colors and Textures

Vertical vinyl siding offers a large palette of colors and textures to choose from. The availability of multiple finishes gives homeowners the flexibility to customize their exterior home design to their liking, increasing curb appeal and resale value.

Unique Design

The vertical installation of these sidings provides a distinctive look compared to the traditional horizontal style. This unique design can contribute to an aesthetically pleasing facade making homes stand out in the neighborhood.

Easy Installation

Hassle-free Setup

Vertical vinyl sidings are relatively easier to install compared to other types. Their lightweight nature and straightforward setup method assist in reducing the time and labor required for installation.

Cons of Vertical Vinyl Siding

Higher Installation Cost

Expensive than Horizontal Vinyl Siding

Though generally less costly than brick or wood, vertical vinyl siding tends to be more expensive than horizontal counterparts. The pricing discrepancy is largely due to the additional labor and materials needed for proper drainage and weatherproofing.

Extended Maintenance

Regular Cleaning

Vertical siding is significantly more prone to harbor dirt and debris than horizontal siding. The grooves and seams can collect grime over time, requiring regular and thorough cleaning to prevent staining and ensure the longevity of the siding.

Potential for Water Damage

Vulnerability to Moisture

Because vertical siding is arranged in an up-and-down configuration, rainwater can potentially infiltrate the seams, leading to possible water damage over time. Proper installation and maintenance are necessary to prevent this issue, increasing upkeep requirements.

Potential Installation Issues

Mastery Required

While vertical vinyl siding is relatively easy to install, it does require some expertise. Errors in installation such as misalignment can lead to aesthetic problems and functional issues like water penetration. Opting for a professional installation could therefore be preferable, adding to the overall project cost.

Limited Insulation

Inferior Energy Efficiency

One of the primary drawbacks of vertical vinyl siding is its limited insulative qualities. Unlike certain other types of siding, it may not aid significantly in maintaining interior temperatures, which could result in higher heating or cooling costs for the homeowner. While insulative versions of the material are available, they tend to be more costly.

Myths and Misconceptions about Vertical Vinyl Siding

Often when it comes to home improvement, there are many narratives and misconceptions that get passed around as fact. One area where this is the case is with vertical vinyl siding. There are many myths out there about this siding option, and this misinformation can sometimes lead homeowners to make decisions that aren't in their best interest. Therefore, this section aims to clear up some of these myths and misconceptions.

Myth #1: Vertical Vinyl Siding Does Not Last Long

Myth

One common myth about vertical vinyl siding is that it doesn't last as long as other types of siding. This could not be further from the truth.

Reality

In reality, vertical vinyl siding is long-lasting and durable. Most vinyl siding products these days are made to withstand the elements and last for several decades. The lifespan of your siding can be further extended with regular cleaning and maintenance.

Myth #2: Vertical Vinyl Siding Is Prone To Color Fading

Myth

Many homeowners believe that vertical vinyl siding fades quickly in the sunlight and therefore loses its good looks within a few years.

Reality

While older vinyl siding might have had this problem, modern vinyl sidings are engineered to resist color fading, even in intense sunlight. Most manufacturers now imbue the entire thickness of the siding with color, not just the surface, so the color remains vibrant even if the surface gets scratched or worn out.

Myth #3: Vertical Vinyl Siding Looks Cheap and Unattractive

Myth

Another myth regarding vertical vinyl siding is that it is not aesthetically appealing. People tend to associate it with cheaper housing options or consider it outdated.

Reality

Vertically installed vinyl siding, in fact, is becoming increasingly popular due to its clean, modern look. It comes in a variety of colors, textures, and styles, including options that mimic the look of wood, brick, or stone. Depending on the installation and styling, vertical vinyl siding can actually add a distinctive, contemporary look to a home.

Myth #4: Vertical Vinyl Siding Is Not Energy-Efficient

Myth

There is a myth that vertical vinyl siding is not as energy-efficient as other siding options, such as wood or aluminum.

Reality

Quite to the contrary, vinyl siding, when combined with appropriate insulation, can effectively reduce thermal bridging and improve the overall thermal performance of the building envelope, making it an energy-efficient choice.

Myth #5: Vertical Vinyl Siding Is Difficult to Install

Myth

Some people mistakenly believe that vertical vinyl siding is harder to install than its horizontal counterpart.

Reality

The installation process for vertical vinyl siding isn't inherently more difficult than installing horizontal siding. Any competent siding contractor should be able to perform either job with equal efficiency. In fact, vertical installation can sometimes be faster because the panels are longer.

Myth #6: Vertical Vinyl Siding Is Bad for the Environment

Myth

Another misconception is that vinyl siding is harmful to the environment because it is a plastic product, contributes to the waste stream, and cannot be recycled.

Reality

Contrary to this belief, vinyl siding is one of the more environmentally friendly options for siding. It has lower embodied energy and a smaller carbon footprint compared to brick or cement. Moreover, vinyl siding isn’t typically replaced frequently, which reduces waste. If it isn't landfilled, it can also be melted down and recycled into new products.

These are just a few of the many myths and misconceptions that are commonly associated with vertical vinyl siding. If you're considering this option for your home, make sure you do your own research and consult with a professional, rather than relying on hearsay or outdated information. Vertical vinyl siding has a lot to offer, don't let untruths steer you away from considering it.

Summary

Vertical vinyl siding is a fantastic option when you're looking to spice up your home's exterior appeal, or simply needing a durable, low-maintenance option. Its longevity, cost-effectiveness, and ease of installation make it a perfect choice for homeowners who wish to embark on a do-it-yourself home improvement project. Remember, these aren't your only benefits, vertical vinyl siding also equip your home with top-notch insulation features, which surely bring tangible energy savings.

One of the perks of vertical vinyl siding is about its endless design possibilities. There's a wide variety of textures and colors you can choose from! This means you can easily customize your home’s look, making it as unique as you want it to be. So, for all those looking to strike a balance of durability, affordability and aesthetic appeal, vertical vinyl siding might be a solution to consider.

So, we've seen what vertical vinyl siding can offer. Ranging from being weather-resistant to noticeably increasing your home's resale value, it almost seems like it's the ideal siding solution. However, like any other home upgrade, it requires careful consideration of your specific needs and circumstances. Through this, you'll surely recognize if vertical vinyl siding is the right choice for your home update project!

About US Quality Construction of Columbus

US Quality Construction of Columbus is your go-to construction company right here in Columbus, OH! We're your friendly, local professionals specializing in both large scale commercial and residential projects, as well as smaller home renovations. Since our inception, we've been a name synonymous with trust, integrity, and above all, impeccable quality. Our talented team of dedicated professionals is committed to making your construction dreams a reality. Whether you're looking to build a new home, renovate an existing one, or expand your business premises, US Quality Construction of Columbus has got you covered. Stick with us for stress-free construction, money-saving solutions and timely project completion. Remember, if it is quality you want, it is US Quality Construction of Columbus you need!