How Long Does Vinyl Siding Last?

Vinyl siding is one of the most popular exterior cladding options for homes today. Made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resin, vinyl siding is prized for its durability, low maintenance, and customizability. A key question many homeowners have when considering vinyl siding is, “How long does vinyl siding last?”

The lifespan of vinyl siding can vary quite a bit depending on the quality of the product, proper installation, and ongoing maintenance. With proper care and barring any accidents, quality vinyl siding is expected to last between 20-50 years or more.

Here’s a more in-depth look at the lifespan of vinyl siding and the factors that impact its durability:

Thickness and Quality

The thickness and quality of the vinyl siding product is a major determinant of its longevity. Here are some thickness guidelines:

Standard vinyl siding is 0.035 to 0.042 inches thick and offers a lifespan of 20-25 years. This is considered lightweight budget siding.
Premium vinyl siding ranges from 0.044 to 0.052 inches thick and can last 25-40 years or more. Mid-range in price.
Ultra-premium vinyl siding is 0.055 inches and above. It carries a lifetime warranty and can last 40-50 years or more with proper care. This is high-end siding.

Thicker siding is more impact-resistant and able to stand up to weathering over time. Look for premium or ultra-premium grade products for maximum durability. Avoid the thinnest budget siding if you want it to last decades.

Quality of PVC Resin

The type of PVC resin used in the siding also impacts its lifespan. Look for products made from 100% virgin resin for the most weather-resistant, long-lasting performance. Recycled or filler content can diminish durability. The best vinyl siding has a high concentration of titanium dioxide in the PVC resin to prevent fading.

Structural Design

How the siding is engineered and constructed affects its longevity as well. Triple certified siding that meets or exceeds ASTM standards for wind load, impact resistance, and quality assurance will be the strongest. Look for sturdy lock designs that securely connect the panels. Backed insulation also boosts the siding’s ability to withstand weather and impacts.

Installation Quality

Proper installation following the manufacturer’s instructions is vital for getting the full lifespan from vinyl siding. Trained professionals should attach the siding securely to the house sheathing using recommended fasteners and spacing. The panels must be hung straight and allowed room for expansion and contraction. Poor installation can lead to sagging, cracks, and water infiltration that will shorten the lifespan.

Climate and Environmental Factors

Vinyl siding holds up best in temperate climates without extreme weather swings. Heating and cooling cycles cause the siding to expand and contract, which can loosen the panels over time. Siding exposed to intense heat or cold will degrade quicker than siding in moderate environments. The direction the siding faces also impacts durability. South/west exposures receive more sun and heat while north faces see more moisture and potential icicle damage.

Maintenance

Ongoing maintenance is key for maximizing the lifespan of vinyl siding. The siding should be cleaned at least annually using a soft brush and mild detergent to remove dirt and grime. Trim back bushes and trees touching the siding. Inspect for damage and reattach loose panels. Repair cracks or accidents right away to prevent water infiltration. Properly maintained vinyl siding will last for decades.

Color Selection

Lighter vinyl siding colors hold up longer than dark colors which absorb more heat. Whites, creams, light blues, and grays show less wear and resist fading better than dark browns, greens, reds and blues. Colors are formulated by adding pigments to the PVC resin which can speed weathering in darker shades.

By selecting high-quality, premium-grade vinyl siding properly installed and cared for, most homeowners can expect their vinyl siding investment to last 30 years or longer. With extra diligence, 50+ year life from vinyl siding is achievable.

How Long Does Vinyl Siding Last Compared to Other Siding?

How does vinyl stack up to other siding options like wood, fiber cement, stucco, brick, and metal in terms of longevity? Here’s an overview:

Wood siding – Cedar and redwood siding can last 30-75 years with ongoing maintenance. Painted wood siding lasts 10-20 years before requiring refinishing.
Fiber cement – Can last 50+ years but requires painting every 10-15 years. Vulnerable to cracks and moisture damage.
Stucco – Lasts 40-50 years with proper installation. Can crack and needs ongoing patching/repairs.
Brick – Extremely durable for 50-100 years but higher cost. Requires repointing mortar over time.
Metal siding – Steel and aluminum siding can last 50+ years. Vulnerable to dents/scratches and needs regular repainting.
Vinyl siding – Offers comparable or longer lifespans of 40-50+ years with easier maintenance than many siding options.

While wood siding offers beauty and character, it requires heavy maintenance and has shorter lifespans than vinyl. Inorganic siding choices like fiber cement, stucco, brick, and metal can all outlast vinyl but require much more maintenance. For the best combination of long-term performance and easy care, vinyl remains a top siding choice.

Factors That Can Shorten the Lifespan of Vinyl Siding

While quality vinyl siding holds up beautifully for decades, there are some factors that can potentially decrease its lifespan:

Sun exposure and heat: Constant sun baking and heating/cooling cycles can cause vinyl siding to expand, contract, warp, and fade more rapidly.
Moisture issues: Poor drainage, leaky roofs/gutters, ponding water, and high humidity can warp vinyl and cause mold/mildew growth.
Impact damage: Vinyl siding is susceptible to cracking and denting from impacts by objects. Hail, rocks, fallen tree limbs, lawn equipment, and animals can damage siding.
Poor installation: Vinyl siding improperly installed loosens over time and allows moisture infiltration and pests behind the panels.
Inferior quality: Budget siding is thinner and made with lower grade PVC resin, shortening its lifespan.
Lack of maintenance: Overgrown vegetation, buildup of grime, and ignoring problems like cracks can accelerate deterioration.

Avoiding these common problems will help ensure vinyl siding lasts as long as possible. Proper installation and care is key.

Signs Your Vinyl Siding Needs Replacing

How can you tell when aging vinyl siding has reached the end of its lifespan and needs full replacement? Watch for these warning signs:

Fading/discoloration – Once vibrant siding has faded, yellowed or its color has become chalky. Darker siding shows fading effects first.
Cracking/bubbling – Brittle, cracked panels that are warped, bent or bubbled indicate vinyl breakdown.
Pests/decay – Holes, trails, or nests from pests like ants, termites, wasps signal damaged siding. Mold or mildew growth is also problematic.
Moisture damage – Water pooling, leaking, rotting from inside out. Drop in insulation value.
Impact damage – Multiple dents, gouges, holes that expose the house sheathing. Hail damage with extensive pitting.
Sections detaching – Panels or shakes coming loose, falling off the house. Missing pieces of siding.
Difficult repairs – Having to constantly replace warped, cracked sections signals systemic issues.

If your vinyl siding shows multiple signs of age-related wear and damage, replacement will provide a fresh new look with improved weatherproofing.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace Vinyl Siding?

The cost to replace vinyl siding on an average sized house ranges from $8,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on these factors:

House size – larger homes cost more.
Siding complexity – multi-story, unique architectural details cost more.
Accessibility – multi-level roofs, high exterior walls increase costs.
Siding layers – removing multiple old siding layers adds labor time.
New siding type – ultra-premium, thicker products cost more.
Geographic area – labor rates vary regionally.
Additional repairs – fixing damaged sheathing/insulation adds cost.

Always get multiple quotes from reputable local siding contractors for the most accurate price estimate.

Is It Worth Repairing or Replacing Old Vinyl Siding?

Once your vinyl siding is 10+ years old, signs of wear become evident. At this point, you’ll need to decide whether you want to repair, replace sections, or do a full replacement.

Spot repairs – Reattaching loose panels, sealing gaps, fixing small cracks can extend good siding’s lifespan 5-10 years. Best for newer siding.
Section replacement – Swapping out the most damaged areas is cheaper than full replacement. Blending new and old vinyl can be tricky though.
Full replacement – For widespread cracking/fading and moisture issues, full tear-off and new siding does the job best. Provides maximum longevity.

Consider how much life your current siding has left, what condition it’s in, and your budget. Repairs make sense for mildly aging siding. But replacement is better for siding in poor shape.

How to Make Vinyl Siding Last Longer

You can maximize the lifespan of your vinyl siding with these proactive care tips:

Select thick premium or ultra-premium grade vinyl siding that contains high-quality virgin PVC resin, UV inhibitors, and impact modifiers. Go for at least 0.044 gauge and triple certification. The higher initial investment will pay off in decades of performance.
Hire a qualified professional siding installer with years of proven experience. They’ll properly attach the siding to the house sheathing allowing for expansion and contraction. Never let handymen tackle siding replacement.
Inspect siding yearly – clean panels with soap and water using gentle pressure. Check for cracks, damage, loose areas. Immediately fix any issues.
Keep vegetation at least 12 inches back from the siding. Trim back tree limbs and bushes touching the siding.
Ensure adequate drainage and slope around the home so moisture doesn’t pool near the siding. Keep gutters and downspouts clear.
Repaint or re-coat vinyl siding every 8-12 years to renew UV protection and refresh the color.
Wash siding gently. Never pressure wash vinyl siding. Use a soft brush and mild detergent.
Handle siding carefully during any exterior projects to avoid impact damage which can shorten its lifespan.

With proper installation, materials, and care, you can keep quality vinyl siding in peak condition and get 40 years or more of performance in most climates.

How Long Does Vinyl Siding Last? Key Takeaways

Quality vinyl siding typically lasts between 20-50+ years depending on product quality, installation, climate, maintenance and more.
Go with the thickest, premium-grade vinyl siding for maximum durability. Look for virgin PVC resin and triple certifications.
Proper installation by qualified professionals ensures the siding lasts.
Ongoing maintenance like cleaning, inspections, vegetation trimming keeps vinyl siding beautiful.
Harsh climates, sun exposure, impact damage can shorten vinyl siding’s lifespan.
Fading, cracking, pests and decay signal vinyl siding replacement needs.
With proactive care, you can keep vinyl siding performing for decades as a wise home investment.

Frequently Asked Questions About How Long Vinyl Siding Lasts (FAQs)

How long does vinyl siding last compared to other sidings?

Vinyl lasts longer than wood siding (which needs frequent staining/painting) but not as long as materials like brick, stucco, and fiber cement. With proper maintenance, vinyl matches or exceeds the lifespan of most other sidings at 20-50 years.

Does vinyl siding have to be replaced all at once?

No, vinyl siding can be replaced in sections or phases over time. But it is more cost-effective to do full replacement all at once rather than piecing it out over years.

Can old and new vinyl siding be mixed?

It is possible to mix old and new vinyl siding, but an exact color, pattern and texture match can be difficult. Better to replace all siding for a consistent look.

Can you make vinyl siding last 100 years?

While some premium vinyl siding warranties may claim 100 year lifespan, most vinyl will show wear after 40-60 years in normal environments. Selecting ultra-premium thickness and grade products, combined with meticulous care, gives you the best shot at nearing 100 years.

How long does insulated vinyl siding last?

Backed insulation provides added structure and protection that can extend the lifespan of vinyl siding. Insulated vinyl siding is estimated to last 35-50 years or longer when properly installed and maintained.

How long does solid vinyl siding last compared to hollow vinyl siding?

Solid vinyl siding is more impact resistant and holds up better than hollow siding in extreme weather. Solid vinyl siding will generally last 5-10 years longer than standard hollow siding when exposed to hail, extreme winds, temperature swings and moisture.

Does vinyl siding fade over time?

Yes, all vinyl siding will experience some degree of fading over time from sun exposure. Higher quality vinyl contains more UV inhibitors to better maintain color. Periodic re-coating can refresh fading siding. Darker colors tend to show fading faster than lighter colors.

Can hail damage vinyl siding?

Yes, vinyl siding can be dented and damaged by a severe hail storm, especially the thinner budget grades. Inspection and immediate repairs help prevent further water damage.

How long should quality vinyl siding last?

Quality, thick vinyl siding properly installed and maintained should last 30-40 years or longer before needing replacement. Premium products with high standards can last 50+ years.

What is the best siding for longevity?

While fiber cement, brick and stucco siding can last 50-100 years, they require intensive maintenance. Vinyl siding offers comparable or superior longevity with lower maintenance when properly installed and cared for over decades.

How often should vinyl siding be replaced?

With proper care, vinyl siding should only need full replacement every 40-50 years. Basic maintenance like washing, inspections, and minor repairs can extend the lifespan further.

Can you replace just one piece of vinyl siding?

It is possible to replace just one vinyl siding panel, but the new piece must exactly match the existing siding in color, profile and texture to avoid an obvious patchwork look.

How long does vinyl siding take to install?

For an average sized single-family home of 2,000-3,000 square feet, professional siding installation typically takes 2-7 days from start to finish. Larger homes with multi-story, hard to reach areas will fall at the higher end of that timeframe.

Conclusion

When shopping for vinyl siding, remember that thicker, premium-grade products will provide the longest-lasting performance, even though they have a higher initial price tag. But the forty-plus years of durability you’ll get from high-quality vinyl far outweighs the cost difference compared to having to replace budget siding every 20 years. With proper installation, care, and maintenance, vinyl siding is one of the wisest investments you can make for your home’s exterior that will keep it beautifully clad for decades to come.