There are two ways vinyl siding can be placed on a home: horizontally and vertically. Horizontal placement tends to be the most common, and homeowners often install siding this way by default. But if you're about to replace your home's siding, it's worth considering both the pros and cons of horizontal placement before you choose that option.
Pro: You have more siding choices.
Since horizontal siding tends to be more popular for residential use, more siding companies make it. Also, siding companies tend to make more varieties of horizontal siding than vertical siding. All in all, this means you will have more choices of color and pattern when you go with horizontal siding. If you want a very specific color or pattern, you're more likely to find it in a horizontal model.
Con: Dirt tends to sit along the bottoms of the siding pieces.
A lot of horizontal siding slopes out slightly towards its base. This makes the siding more wind resistant and durable. However, it also causes the horizontal siding to accumulate some dirt in this area. It's not hard to hose or power wash this dirt away, but it is important to be aware of this issue.
Pro: Horizontal siding is easier for contractors to install.
To install horizontal siding, your contractors can work their way down from the top of the home to the bottom. It's easier for two contractors to install a piece together, working side by side. This easier installation may mean your home gets sided faster when you choose horizontal siding. You may also pay less for the siding installation since the installers will finish faster.
Con: Horizontal siding allows more water penetration when it becomes damaged.
If your horizontal siding becomes damaged, it will leave a distinct gap that rainwater can trickle behind. The water will then be trapped behind the siding that remains, which can lead to mold and mildew growth. This means that if you do get horizontal siding, you will need to keep a close eye out for damage and have it fixed ASAP.
Before you simply opt for horizontal siding by default, consider the pros and cons above. Horizontal siding does come in more colors and options than other sidings, and it is easy to install. However, there are some minor cleaning issues and a potential for water damage which deserve your consideration. Talk to a siding contractor service such as YBR Group inc to learn more.
When you have something you like inside a jar, you probably put a lid on it — right? In a way, you can think of your house in the same manner. You like and value the items inside, along with the inside of the house itself. So, it only makes sense that you would protect the interior of your home with a lid. That lid is your roof.
Keep that perspective in mind as you read this blog. Learning more about roofing will feel more interesting if you remember what a roof does: it protects the inside of the home and the people who live in it.