If your vinyl siding has taken a beating from a storm and has damage, you shouldn’t wait to replace it. However, if the siding on your home is starting to wear with age and you have some time to plan the project, you might want to wait for the optimal time for vinyl siding installation.
Pinnacle Home Improvements is a reputable siding contractor that can help you revive the look of your home and strengthen its structural integrity through new siding. In this blog post, we provide details on when the best time is to install vinyl siding and how to plan this project.
Vinyl Siding and Its Benefits
Choosing vinyl siding gives you many advantages, as this material is incredibly durable. It stands up to severe weather and temperature fluctuations, resists rot and pests, and is easy to take care of over the years. Vinyl siding can be cleaned by rinsing it off with a hose at a low-pressure setting, making it simple to wash away dirt and grass clippings.
Vinyl siding cost is low upfront and long-term, so you won’t constantly be throwing money at it to keep it in good condition. You can even follow vinyl siding installation tips and learn how to cut vinyl siding to install it yourself, though you will get the best results by hiring a professional.
The downside of vinyl siding is that it must be installed correctly, or else it could allow for water intrusion. Professional siding contractors know how to ensure it has enough room to expand and contract to avoid these issues.
When it’s installed properly, vinyl siding can last anywhere from 20 to 40 years, and in that time, it will uphold its aesthetic appeal. It comes in many colors, styles, and textures that can help you create the visual appeal you want for your home. Not only will you enjoy looking at it, but you’ll also increase your property value with this simple home improvement project, which is good news when you’re ready to move.
As a low-cost investment in your home, you’ll also wind up saving more money with vinyl siding. Adding insulated vinyl siding in particular can help you reduce your energy expenses while also helping you stay more comfortable indoors in summer or winter.
Factors to Consider When Planning to Install Vinyl Siding
When you have vinyl siding installed, there are several factors to think about that could impact the project, including:
Temperature
Since vinyl siding expands and contracts when the temperature changes, planning the project when it’s too hot or too cold could make the installation process more challenging. It’s certainly worse when the temperatures are frigid, though any extremely hot or cold temperature can cause it to crack or warp, or even turn brittle.
Moisture and Humidity
Moisture and humidity are major pains for siding installers, as the adhesive will be harder to cure. The added moisture in the air or from precipitation can also promote mold growth.
Windy Conditions
If the winds are too high, don’t be surprised if your siding installation needs to be rescheduled. High winds can make installation incredibly difficult, though the biggest reason is that they cause a huge safety hazard for installers.
The Best Time of the Year for Vinyl Siding Installation
Vinyl siding can be installed year-round, though there are certain seasons when the temperatures and weather are more balanced, reducing the likelihood of challenges during installation.
Therefore, spring and fall are the most preferred seasons for vinyl siding installation. This is due to:
Moderate Temperatures
In the spring as well as the fall, the temperatures are far more comfortable. Siding installers appreciate that, though the best benefits of these seasons are that they can see the material expand and contract properly during installation to ensure precision.
Reduced Chance for Material Buckling
When temperatures are high, vinyl siding can expand and has a greater chance of buckling if it’s installed too tightly. In the winter, it’s harder to get adhesives to adhere and caulk. Moderate temperatures and clear skies are the ideal setting for vinyl siding installation, and these conditions are more probable in the spring and fall.
Pros and Cons of Installing Vinyl Siding in the Winter
Installing vinyl siding during the winter months is certainly possible, and some homeowners find it to be the perfect time for this home improvement project.
The pros of installing vinyl siding during winter include:
Lower Costs
There’s less demand to get this project done in the winter, and as such, siding contractors may provide discounts and savings to fill their schedules.
Faster Completion
Since installation teams are likely to be less busy in the winter, they may be able to schedule your siding project right away.
Cooler Temperatures May Ease Installation
If you live in a climate where winters aren’t as frigid, the cooler temperatures may work in your favor. They can allow for a tighter and more accurate fit, and that will help with expansion issues down the road.
Dormant Winter Landscaping
Installers for siding do their best to avoid trampling on flowerbeds as they perform installations. In the winter, most plants are dormant, which means there will be less risk to your garden.
On the other side of the coin, there are some cons to be aware of when installing vinyl siding in the winter:
Limitations Imposed by Temperature
Extreme cold can work against vinyl siding installation, making it more brittle. It’s more prone to cracking during the cutting of panels during the installation process.
Longer Curing Times Required
Colder temperatures also mean that it may take longer for adhesives to cure, which can cause delays in the process.
Worker Safety Risks
Depending on how cold it gets in your area, the conditions may be too hazardous for workers. They will also need to have the right equipment to help them get your siding project done properly in the dead of winter.
While there are greater challenges, working on installing vinyl siding in the winter is possible. It requires an experienced siding contractor and planning for the project on the milder days in this season to ensure a precise job.
Tips for Maintaining Vinyl Siding in Various Seasonal Conditions
Once you have new vinyl siding installed, you’ll be better able to enjoy the benefits it provides your home. However, taking care of it throughout the seasons is vital for ensuring its longevity.
Plan on cleaning your siding at least once per year, ideally on days when the temperature is moderate. You can hose it off gently, but don’t use high-pressure washing. This can crack the material and lead to water intrusion that causes structural damage to your home. If there are stubborn areas of dirt, you can use a gentle detergent and a soft cloth to wipe them off, then rinse away the cleanser.
Another task for maintaining siding each year is to inspect it. You’ll want to look for any cracks, gaps, or warped boards that could allow water to get behind them. If a major storm comes through, you should also go check your siding afterwards. Making timely repairs to any damage you find is the key to protecting your home and avoiding more expensive issues.
Don’t forget to maintain your landscaping and keep trees and bushes trimmed back. They can scrape along the siding and cause damage over time. Any heat source should also be kept far from the perimeter of your home, as it can not only ruin the siding but also put your entire family in danger of a house fire.
What Sets Pinnacle Home Improvements’ Vinyl Siding Services Apart
When you need to schedule siding replacement, many contractors offer these services. Pinnacle Home Improvements stands apart from the others through our commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer care. We never cut corners and always seek out the best materials for the job.
Since we’ve established strong relationships with our suppliers, we can get these materials at fair prices, allowing you to get premium quality without the premium price. Our team is focused on ensuring that all your needs are met, starting from our initial consultation. We provide you with honest input and explain the differences in each grade of siding material to help you make the best decision for your home.
Most homeowners have never had to replace siding before and aren’t sure what will complement their home’s architecture. We help you see the colors, styles, and textures that will enhance your home. We’re also there for you even when the job is done by offering warranty coverage for added peace of mind and making sure you understand how to care for your vinyl siding over the years.
No matter the season, when you’re ready for new vinyl siding, contact us to schedule a free estimate and learn how our vinyl siding installers can help you love your home again.
