When you’re considering making changes to your home that include new vinyl siding or even installing new windows, it’s understandable that you’d have some burning questions. To answer a few of our frequently asked questions from customers about installation & maintenance, the home improvement experts at Kingsford Home Improvements have put together this “how-to” list below for vinyl siding, windows, and more!
FAQs For Vinyl Siding & Windows
Is Vinyl Siding Right For My House?
Many homeowners love vinyl siding because it’s attractive, easy to care for, and an overall low maintenance option. When correctly installed, quality vinyl siding is weather resistant in windy areas and helps insulate your home for better energy efficiency. Combine this with its affordability and it’s no wonder it is such a popular option for homes across the United States. Contact one of our experienced decorators, contractors, or consultants to learn whether vinyl siding is right for your house.
How Do I Choose The Right Vinyl Siding For My Home?
The right vinyl siding for your home depends on your unique needs. For example, if you live in a windy area, you may want vinyl siding that holds up well to tornado-force winds of up to 240 mph. If you need to give your home a makeover on a tight budget, vinyl siding is one of the most cost-effective options available. Before your consultation, make a list of your needs and preferences to discuss with a salesperson at Kingsford who is knowledgeable about the range of vinyl siding options.
What Color Should I Pick For My Vinyl Siding?
Vinyl siding comes in a range of subtle traditional and bold modern colors. The best color depends on your aesthetic preferences, the style of the building, and your environment. You should also consider the colors of any existing fixtures like your roof, doors, and window treatments, as you may be happiest with siding that complements the existing features of your home.
The best way to see which colors look best with your home’s current features is to ask for swatches to take home and see how different colors look at different times of the day. Once you’ve found the color you like, the next step is calling the experts at Kingsford Home Improvements.
How Much Vinyl Siding Do I Need?
Vinyl siding comes in square footage. To measure how much siding you need to order, you first must measure the square footage of the wall surface you plan to cover. For best results, hire a skilled contractor from Kingsford Home Improvements who can measure your home to determine the right amount of siding you will need.
How Can I Make My New Vinyl Siding Last?
When maintained well, your new vinyl siding will last for years and continue looking great. The first step to making your siding last is to order the correct quantity and have it carefully installed, as professional installation minimizes unnecessary wear & tear for longer-lasting siding. Other than that, plus some occasional “as-needed” cleaning, the maintenance is pretty low, which is why vinyl siding remains such a popular option for our customers.
How Do I Know When It’s Time To Replace My Vinyl Siding?
Quality vinyl siding often lasts 20-40 years depending on its thickness, how it was installed, and the surrounding environment. You’ll know it’s time to replace your siding when you begin noticing warping of the siding, mildew, holes, and other visible damage. Even if there isn’t any damage, some homeowners also choose to replace their siding early if they’re looking to give their home a makeover. Consult with a contractor if you are not sure whether it is time to replace your vinyl siding. The experts at Kingsford Home Improvements can tell you tell when it’s time for replacement and help you put together a plan to accomplish it.
How Do I Clean My Vinyl Siding?
Homeowners love vinyl siding because of how low maintenance it is. However, it is still important to clean it regularly to remove built-up dirt, mildew, mold, or debris. To best clean your siding, use a garden hose with the nozzle set to medium. Set the spray to a wider, more dispersed spray – as opposed to a more narrowly focused jet – to gently clean the surface. Be sure to start at the bottom and work your way up once the lower levels of your vinyl siding are clean.
How Often Do I Need To Clean My Vinyl Siding?
Many customers ask us how often they should clean their vinyl siding to keep it looking new. The answer depends on a variety of individual factors, but for general maintenance purposes, cleaning it once a year is usually sufficient.
What Is The Best Cleaning Product To Use On Vinyl Siding?
To tackle the cleaning needs of your vinyl siding, the best solution is one you can make yourself! Diluting one-third of a cup of laundry detergent in a gallon of water will create a mild cleaning solution that will properly clean your siding without damaging it.
Some homeowners prefer to use a solution of white vinegar and water to clean their vinyl siding as it works well to remove mold and mildew. Be sure however to always check your manufacturer’s instructions as they may have specific recommendations.
When Do I Know It’s Time To Clean My Windows?
How often you need to clean your windows varies by your personal environment and lifestyle. Though you should perform regular weekly/monthly maintenance on the insides of your windows when you are distracted by smudges, smears, or dirt, most homeowners prefer to do a full cleaning on the outside of their windows at least twice a year. Performing a more thorough clean of them is the best way to allow in the maximum amount of brightness and natural light.
What Is The Best Way To Clean My Windows?
- Wash with a long strip applicator and a bucket of a mild cleaning solution like dishwashing liquid or white vinegar in water.
- Wipe clean with a squeegee using a reverse-S movement pattern.
- Wipe dry using a soft dry chamois.
How Do I Know When It’s Time To Replace My Windows?
There are lots of signs that will tell you when it is time to replace your windows. If you notice any obvious damage, such as cracking, splintering, or sticking of the windows that make it difficult to open and close them, you’ll know they are wearing down too much to be useful to you anymore. Other signs include a feeling of dampness or drafts in your home, or looking through a window to find that the view on the other side is warped. Overall, replacing damaged windows with energy-efficient ones restores the beauty and comfort of your home and makes it easier to both heat and cool it throughout the year.
Call Durham, NC’s Vinyl Siding & Window Experts Today To Learn More
With so many vinyl siding options out there, the best decision you can often make is to refer to the experts. Kingsford Home Improvements has been serving satisfied homeowners throughout the Raleigh-Durham, NC area for almost 30 years, and we are confident in our abilities to recommend and install the right siding and windows for your unique needs. For a free consultation, call [phone] or fill out a contact submission form today.