Siding on your property does a lot more than boost curb appeal; it also protects your property from the elements as well as maintain internal temperatures. However, over time, siding can lose its appeal as well as its performance, depending on the type of siding on your property.

In fact, unless there is an urgent issue with a property’s siding, replacing or repairing siding may not be on the top of a homeowner’s to-do list. But maybe it should be…

Stinson Services, a siding contractor, located in Edina, MN weighs in on siding materials, lifespans and level of maintenance below.

Wood Siding – 20-40 years – Heavy Maintenance:

Wood siding is traditionally a popular choice for its look and appeal, not for its price tag. Wood siding is one of the most expensive types of siding, but it can last decades with regular maintenance.

Homeowners who choose wood siding should inspect it each year for rot, mold, and pests and even re-do caulking around exterior trim to limit the damage, prevent leaks, and prolong its life.

Additionally, wood siding will need to be repainted or stained every 5-7 years to keep wood siding looking vibrant and new.

Aluminum Siding – 30-40 years – Medium Maintenance:

Aluminum siding is another long-lasting type of siding, lasting up to 30 years or more with regular maintenance which includes an annual pressure washer session. After a decade, the exterior enamel can begin to fade and weather and may require repainting, but not as frequently as wood.

Additionally, aluminum siding can also dent, scratch or become pitted, which can require a little more maintenance and minor repairs by the homeowner or exterior siding contractors.

Vinyl Siding – 20-40 years – Light Maintenance:

Finally, vinyl siding is indubitably one of the most common forms of exterior siding simply because it has a similar look and appeals to wood, but with less maintenance. A pressure washer cleaning once or twice a year should take care of the maintenance.

Vinyl siding can last 20 years or longer, it can still lose its look, appeal, and performance, leading to cracking, fading, and even leaks, especially if a property is located in a harsh climate.

Although vinyl siding requires minimum maintenance, it is important to care for vinyl siding over the long term to ensure its long-lasting appeal.

All in all, the expected lifespan of vinyl siding – or any type of siding – depends on upkeep and maintenance. After all, siding serves as your property’s shield against the elements and weather – protecting the property from wind, rain, other forms of precipitation and even extreme heat and cold; therefore, keeping your property’s siding properly maintained will only ensure its longevity.

If you are interested in learning more about repairs or new installations, be sure to contact your local siding companies and exterior siding contractors for help in maintaining your property’s siding or to select the right type of siding for your property.