The Convenience and Appeal of Cedar Vinyl Siding

Cedar shingles add visual appeal to a home's exterior; they impart a look of rich warmth and natural beauty. Some of the aspects of cedar can be problematic, however; genuine cedar is prone to splitting, cracking, rot, and insect infestation. In addition, cedar shingles are quite pricey in comparison with other home siding materials.

Homeowners who desire the look of cedar shingles without the upkeep and the high initial cost now have another option to consider. Advances in the technology related to vinyl siding production have resulted in cedar vinyl siding, which offers the aesthetic appeal of cedar but with the easy care and lower cost associated with vinyl siding products. The newer cedar vinyl siding looks so much like real cedar, it's actually difficult to tell it apart from the real thing. The vinyl mimics the grain and natural imperfections found in actual cedar shingles.

The best news regarding cedar vinyl siding is twofold: the initial cost is significantly lower than actual cedar and the ongoing maintenance is much simpler. Real cedar shingles are pricey to purchase and to install, while vinyl siding is economical and installs quickly due to its lighter weight. Instead of having to painstakingly attach each overlapping cedar shingle, cedar vinyl siding goes up easily in large sheets that, when installed, look like siding composed of individual cedar shingles.

Homes with natural cedar siding require regular inspections and prompt attention to siding issues, as cedar shingles can buckle, crack, and warp due to their exposure to the elements. In addition, natural cedar is highly prone to damage from moisture, which can cause irreparable damage to cedar shingles within a few short years. In contrast, cedar vinyl siding is naturally moisture-resistant and withstands weather-related wear and tear over the years. Most vinyl siding products require only an occasional soap-and-water washing to keep looking like new.

Insect pests are another common foe when it comes to natural cedar shingles. Many cedar products are specially treated with insecticides to reduce the chance that insects cause wood siding problems, but many homeowners dislike the idea of using unnecessary toxic products in and around their homes. Cedar vinyl siding is naturally pest-resistant; bugs don't care for vinyl, so they will leave it alone.

For the warmth and beauty of natural cedar shingles without the higher expense and ongoing hassles with upkeep, cedar vinyl siding is the obvious choice.