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POLYMER VS. VINYL SIDING: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

  1. INTRODUCTION

Selecting the ideal siding for your home is a crucial choice. The first thing people notice about your house is the siding, which is the outermost covering that covers your walls. It should therefore be both robust and attractive. A reputable siding company can help guide you through the options. Two popular choices are polymer siding and vinyl siding. Both have their own benefits, but which one should you pick? To assist you in making a decision, let’s compare them simply.

  1. WHAT IS POLYMER SIDING?

Polypropylene resin is a type of plastic used to make polymer siding. It has a strong and complex structure that makes it durable and weather-resistant. Polymer siding is stronger than vinyl because of the way the molecules bond together. This siding is not as widely available yet, so it tends to cost more.

If you live in a place with extreme weather—very hot summers or freezing winters—polymer siding is a smart choice. It offers better insulation and holds up better over time. But if your area has mild weather, vinyl siding may be good enough and more budget-friendly.

  1. BENEFITS OF POLYMER SIDING
  • Improved Appearance: Polymer siding has a more fashionable and organic appearance. It often has a smoother, cleaner finish than vinyl.
  • Thicker Panels: Polymer panels are thicker, which means better insulation. This can help keep your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
  • No Visible Seams: Unlike vinyl, polymer panels don’t need to overlap, so they offer a seamless look.
  • More Strength: A polymer panel is generally stronger than a vinyl one of the same size.
  • More Eco-Friendly: Although both are plastic, polymer siding is considered better for the environment than vinyl.
  1. WHAT IS VINYL SIDING?

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a different type of plastic used to make vinyl siding. It has been around for over 50 years and is a very common choice for homeowners. Vinyl is robust and flexible but not as strong as a polymer. It’s also less environmentally friendly.

  1. BENEFITS OF VINYL SIDING
  • Cheaper: Vinyl is usually much more affordable than polymer.
  • More Style Options: Vinyl is easy to fit the style of your home because it comes in a wide variety of colors and designs.
  • Easy to Clean: Vinyl is low-maintenance. To keep it looking new, simply give it a regular wash.
  1. SIDE BY SIDE COMPARISON
  • Look: Polymer has a more natural and clean appearance. Vinyl can look shiny and more like plastic.
  • Cost: Vinyl is cheaper because it’s widely available. Polymer is more expensive.
  • Insulation: Polymer is better at keeping your home warm or cool.
  • Lifespan: Polymer can last over 60 years, while vinyl may last up to 40 years.
  • Maintenance: Both are easy to maintain, but regular cleaning helps avoid mold.
  1. CONCLUSION

So, which one should you choose? If you want a long-lasting, strong, and beautiful siding—and don’t mind spending more—polymer is a great choice. But if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that still looks nice and does the job, vinyl siding is a smart pick.