PVC has been used for piping, insulation, and other construction components for years, but homeowners are now becoming more familiar with this material in another role: exterior siding. PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride, and – as the name suggests – this manufactured product is actually a composite plastic.
Because of its controlled fabrication process, PVC lap siding can be made with lots of different styles and surface appearances, including a wood-inspired look. PVC lap siding offers unique advantages that natural resources like wood can’t, so homeowners who like the style of wood siding are looking for modern materials, like PVC lap siding, that can recreate that particular aesthetic. PVC lap siding is just one of many modern materials that is made to look like wood, so it’s important to shop around and find the best option for PVC lap siding.
With that said, ballpark estimates for PVC lap siding fall at around $12.50 per square foot – a hefty price tag compared to other siding options. Of course, the final cost can vary depending on the particular style of PVC lap siding selected. You’ll also want to factor in labor and installation costs, as well as the removal of old siding, which can be costly.
When it comes to purchasing the right siding, homeowners should weigh several factors into their decision.
While the cost is generally considered a drawback, PVC lap siding does have several advantages. Take a look at the pros of PVC lap siding:
The cost of this PVC lap siding is quite high compared to other exterior siding options, but perhaps one of the most frustrating parts of pricing PVC lap siding is that it is difficult to get a clear-cut answer on how much you can expect to pay. PVC lap siding manufacturers aren’t always transparent on how much the material costs, which makes it difficult to factor into a project budget.
PVC lap siding is nowhere near as susceptible to moisture damage as natural wood, which is prone to rot and weaken with long-term exposure to the elements.
Termites, wasps, carpenter ants, and rodents love to consider natural wood siding as an ideal place to nest. Because of its manmade composition, PVC lap siding does not have that same appeal!
PVC lap siding is generally considered a low-maintenance material because it does not need the same upkeep as real wood.
PVC lap siding is not as flammable as wood, which plays a significant role in fire safety.
Though precise numbers are unclear, the R-value of PVC lap siding is estimated to fall between .80 to 1.25, making it fairly good.
Unfortunately, PVC lap siding is far from perfect. In reality, there are other products that have the same advantages, but without the major drawbacks of PVC lap siding, which are elevated cost and an overall lack of information about the product.
PVC lap siding is considered an expensive exterior material when compared to other products that offer similar advantages and styles.
With many manufacturers, finding detailed information about PVC lap siding – including the warranty information – can be extremely challenging, meaning homeowners aren’t always able to be properly informed prior to purchasing this siding material.
