
5 best reasons to buy premium-gauge vinyl siding
If you are considering buying vinyl siding, you are faced with the problem of deciding what gauge, or thickness, of cladding is best for your home. New vinyl siding is sold from standard to premium gauge, and the costs rise considerably for the more expensive materials. But do you really need a top-of-the-line product?
Let's take a look at the benefits of manufacturer's premium cladding lines.
5 ways to evaluate new vinyl siding
When buying new vinyl siding there are five compelling reasons to get a premium grade product:
- Strength. Top-of-the-line cladding is the thickest on the market and is much more wind resistant than less expensive products. Premium vinyl wall covering is typically rated to winds of 200 miles per hour or greater.
- Architectural integrity. Lower-grade vinyl cladding is thinner, and when nailed to your home's studs, it can show any irregularities in the framing and produce an undesirable "wavy" look. The best vinyl siding is extremely rigid and hides imperfections in the framing.
- Energy efficiency. Many premium cladding lines are sold with a layer of foam insulation attached to the back and can raise the energy efficiency of your home.
- Sound dampening. Because it's thicker, premium-gauge cladding blocks outside noise better than other types of vinyl wall covering. It's a small, but important, bonus.
- Durability. Because of its strength, premium cladding can better withstand the pounding of wet winter and hot summers. All new vinyl wall covering is sold with a warranty, but using the best products on the market helps guarantee you are not going to need any servicing on your new purchase.
Premium-gauge cladding is sold in many different colors and textures that mimic real wood cladding, such as cedar. It also can typically return a higher percentage of your investment when you go to sell your house.
Vinyl siding costs vary according to grade
Lower-grade cladding products can be purchased for as little as $3 per square foot, excluding installation and necessary accessories, such as starter strips, corner pieces and j-channels. Premium products can cost as much as $7 per square foot -- more than double. Consult with a pre-screened and certified contractor, such as those found through this site, to help you determine vinyl siding costs and find the right type of cladding for your home and budget.
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