Deciding between aluminum siding vs. vinyl siding for your home involves various considerations. From durability to aesthetics, siding is key to your home’s overall appearance and protection. Aluminum and vinyl siding stand out for their practicality and widespread use. The National Association of Home Builders says that, in 2023, over a fourth of new single-family homes used vinyl siding. But which siding is right for you?
Aluminum Siding vs. Vinyl Siding: What’s the Difference?
Let’s talk about the key differences between aluminum and vinyl siding. Then we can discuss durability, maintenance, and cost.
Aluminum Siding
As the name suggests, aluminum siding is made from aluminum sheets. These sheets are typically coated with a layer of enamel to help prevent rust and fading. Aluminum siding is popular. It’s lightweight and easy to install.
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic. It is made in large panels that interlock. This creates a seamless look on your home’s exterior. Vinyl siding is low-maintenance. It comes in many colors and styles. This has made it popular for residential homes.
Both aluminum siding and vinyl siding are durable and weather resistant. Both sidings can mimic the look of more expensive materials, like wood. However, how these materials are constructed and how they perform over time varies significantly.
Durability of Aluminum Siding vs. Vinyl Siding
Durability is one of the most important factors when selecting siding for your home. It is important to have a material that will withstand the elements and protect your home for years to come.
Rust
Aluminum siding rusts when it contacts water or moisture over time. This can be a serious concern, especially in areas with high humidity or heavy rainfall. While aluminum is treated with coatings to help prevent rusting, the protection can wear off over time. This leaves the aluminum exposed to corrosion.
Vinyl siding does not rust. Because vinyl siding is made from plastic, it is impervious to water damage and will not rust or corrode, even in wet climates. This makes vinyl siding a more durable option when it comes to exposure to moisture.
Dents
Aluminum siding is more prone to dents than vinyl siding. Aluminum siding is lightweight but soft. It dents easily. Dents may occur from hail, falling tree branches, or accidental contact with outdoor equipment. Dents can be challenging to repair without replacing the damaged panels.
Vinyl siding is more flexible and resistant to dents than aluminum siding. And while vinyl siding can better withstand impacts, it is not immune to damage. Extreme impacts, such as heavy hail, may cause cracks or holes in vinyl siding. But denting in vinyl siding is far less common than denting in aluminum siding.
Scratches
Both aluminum siding and vinyl siding can be scratched by sharp objects or rough handling. Aluminum is more susceptible to visible scratches, which can leave marks on the surface. These scratches may also expose the aluminum to rust if not correctly sealed.
Vinyl siding is more scratch-resistant than aluminum. While vinyl can still show scratches, these are typically less noticeable. The color of the vinyl is uniform throughout the material, making scratches blend in better.
Fading
Both aluminum and vinyl siding can fade from sun exposure. Aluminum siding tends to fade more quickly than vinyl. This is especially true in areas with intense sun exposure. Aluminum’s enamel coating can degrade over time, leading to a dull, worn appearance.
Vinyl siding is more resistant to fading. Vinyl materials are often treated with UV inhibitors to help prevent the color from fading. This ensures that the siding retains its vibrancy for extended periods.
Fire Resistance
Aluminum is non-combustible. It won’t catch fire or spread flames. This is a key consideration for those living in an area prone to wildfires or other fire-related risks.
Vinyl siding is made from plastic, and it is flammable. Vinyl siding can melt and catch fire under extreme heat. However, vinyl siding is treated with fire-retardant chemicals. This can slow the spread of fire.
Maintenance Required for Aluminum Siding vs. Vinyl Siding
Both aluminum siding and vinyl siding require some level of maintenance to keep them looking their best. The care needed for each material varies.
Cleaning
Aluminum siding needs more frequent cleaning than vinyl siding. It attracts dirt, grime, and mildew. Aluminum surfaces can accumulate stains and discoloration over time. Aluminum siding may require more intensive cleaning methods, such as pressure washing.
Generally, vinyl siding is easier to clean. It tends to resist dirt and stains more effectively. Vinyl can be cleaned with a simple hose and a mild detergent. It is less likely to attract mildew, making it a low-maintenance option for homeowners.
Repair
In the event of damage, aluminum siding is typically more difficult to repair than vinyl. Scratches, dents, and rust spots in aluminum siding may need pro repair or new panels. Aluminum siding can often be patched but it may not look as seamless as it did initially.
Vinyl siding is generally easier to repair. Small cracks or holes can be patched with a vinyl repair kit. Replacing damaged vinyl pieces is relatively straightforward. Vinyl siding comes in many colors and textures. This can make it hard to find a perfect match for replacement panels.
Painting
Typically, aluminum siding requires repainting every few years to restore the appearance. This is particularly true if the original paint has worn off or faded. Repainting aluminum can be time-consuming and costly.
Vinyl siding does not need to be repainted. The color is integral to the material itself. There is no need to touch up any faded spots. Changing the color of vinyl siding requires replacing the panels entirely.
Washing
Regular washing keeps aluminum and vinyl siding clean and maintained. Vinyl siding requires less frequent washing. Vinyl siding can be cleaned with less effort.
Aluminum Siding vs. Vinyl Siding: Cost Considerations
When considering siding costs for your home, check both the initial cost and the material’s long-term value.
Initial Investment
In regards to affordability, vinyl siding is than aluminum siding. Vinyl is less expensive to manufacture. The installation process is simpler and faster. This reduces labor costs. As a result, homeowners often find that vinyl siding is more cost-effective in terms of upfront expenses.
Long-Term Value
Aluminum siding can be more expensive over the long-term. Aluminum has the cost of regular maintenance, repainting, and repairs. Vinyl siding is low maintenance. This offers better value in terms of longevity. The savings on maintenance and repairs for vinyl siding can make it a more cost-effective option in the long run.
Additional Expenses
Aluminum siding may incur higher expenses over time. Aluminum requires an additional expense for frequent repainting or patching. Vinyl siding often saves money over time due to its durability and minimal maintenance needs.
Appearance of Aluminum Siding vs. Vinyl Siding
The appearance of your siding plays a crucial role in the curb appeal and overall aesthetics of your home.
Style Options
Both aluminum siding and vinyl siding come in a variety of styles. Siding is available in traditional horizontal panels, vertical panels, and shakes. Vinyl siding generally offers a broader range of design options. Modern vinyl siding can mimic the appearance of wood or other high-end materials. Vinyl siding offers more versatility in terms of style.
Color Choices
So, vinyl siding is available in a wide range of colors. Because the color is baked into the vinyl material, it is more resistant to fading. Aluminum siding is also available in a variety of colors. But aluminum tends to fade more quickly under sun exposure. Aluminum requires repainting to maintain its appearance.
Texture
Aluminum siding has a smooth, sleek texture. Vinyl siding offers more texture options. Vinyl siding can be made to resemble the grain of wood. This adds a more natural, rustic appearance to your home.
Visual Appeal
The overall visual appeal of both types of siding is largely subjective. Consider personal preferences and the architectural style of your home. Vinyl siding tends to offer a more modern, polished look. Aluminum siding can appear more traditional.
Consider Your Specific Needs When Choosing Between Aluminum Siding vs. Vinyl Siding for Your Home
Choosing between aluminum vs. vinyl siding for your home is important. The siding material impacts the longevity of your home’s exterior. Siding is a factor in your home’s aesthetic appeal and the overall maintenance involved. If you are building a new home or upgrading your siding, know the differences between aluminum and vinyl siding. It will help you decide.
Your Window Solutions is ready to discuss your siding options and choices so you can choose what is best for your home. Our team will walk you through the pricing, options, and installation process. Call us at (833) 367-9687 to tell us about your project or complete our contact form to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.