Vinyl siding is one of many different types of exterior cladding that can be put on a house. Long known for its economical advantages, it is also durable and easy to clean. Its main purpose is to create a barrier between the home and the outdoors to prevent heat, cold, moisture and pests from entering the structure.

Care

Vinyl siding is easy to clean. It can be done by the homeowner with a garden hose or pressure washer. Depending on the climate and weather, this can be done once or twice per year. For stains and dried-on debris, soap and water with a nylon scrubber or brush will clean most problem areas. Vinyl siding does not need to be painted, as it retains its coloring and protective surface.

Popularity

According to data recently released by the US Census Bureau, vinyl siding is still the first choice in external cladding for new single-family homes. This material has been the front-runner since the mid-1990s, when it overtook wood as the preferred material for home exterior coverings. In Southern states, such as Virginia, statistics show a 2 percent increase to 30 percent in the material used for new homes sold. For new residential construction valued up to $300,000 as well as those valued between a half million and $749,000, it is the homeowner’s first choice in its category. It is the preferred exterior covering method over brick, stucco, wood and fiber cement siding.

Colors

The South is statistically one of the busiest regions in the country for new single-family homes. Vinyl siding in Virginia Beach, for example, is available in a variety of colors and several different types of architectural style to both new home buyers and those remodeling. Colors vary from coordinating neutrals to greens, blues and deep reds, popular hues in the southeastern portion of the state. Vinyl trim in Virginia Beach is also available in a number of coordinating and contrasting colors so that the home exterior cladding will have a uniform look.

Durability

When it comes to durability, homes on the Southeastern coast of the US need to be durable in case of hurricanes and nor’easter storms that plague the region. Vinyl siding in Virginia Beach, for example, must be sturdy enough to stay intact in foul weather, but still look attractive during the rest of the year when fair weather abounds. Wood and stucco homes in the area are prone to moisture damage due to the high humidity in Virginia.