Living in a cold climate presents unique challenges for homeowners, including harsh winter weather that can damage a home’s exterior. Choosing the right siding is crucial for both aesthetics and protection.
In this article, we’ll explore three of the top siding materials for cold climates: vinyl, stone veneer, and fiber cement. We’ll highlight the advantages of each to help you make an informed decision for your home.
Vinyl Siding for Cold Climates
Vinyl siding is a popular choice for many homeowners and is commonly installed across the United States. It’s usually more cost-effective than other siding materials, and its low maintenance makes it a go-to choice. But if you live in the Northeastern region, you may wonder, “how does vinyl siding hold up in the cold weather?” Let’s explore the pros and cons of vinyl siding when used in cold climates.
The Pros of Vinyl in Cold Weather
The benefits of vinyl siding in cold climates are outlined below.
Moisture Resistance
Because vinyl is a type of waterproof plastic, it’s highly durable and moisture-resistant. Vinyl siding has a smooth design to shed water, which is perfect for areas with heavy rain and snow.
It’s important to note that the seams between siding panels are not water-resistant. They can be vulnerable to water seeping in and damaging the substrate. The same can be said for cracks or gaps in the siding.
Flexibility
Vinyl is a flexible material. This allows the siding to expand and contract when the temperature fluctuates, preventing cracking or buckling. It also helps the siding withstand minor impacts from hail and makes it less susceptible to wind damage.
The Cons of Vinyl in the Cold
Vinyl siding has one main disadvantage in cold weather, which is detailed below.
Freeze-Thaw Cycle Vulnerability
Winter weather in many regions features periods of freezing and thawing temperatures. This constant fluctuation, called a freeze-thaw cycle, can cause vinyl siding to lose flexibility. Although vinyl siding is flexible and designed to expand and contract slightly, panels can become brittle in freezing temperatures. This causes cracks or crevices and allows moisture to seep behind the siding.
When temperatures rise again, trapped moisture expands and contracts, which can cause the siding to warp, further crack, or even detach. If enough moisture penetrates the wood behind the siding, it can begin to rot.
It’s true that the colder it gets, the less flexible the vinyl. The good news is that it doesn’t typically begin to lose flexibility and become brittle unless exposed to extreme cold, below-zero temperatures for long periods.
How to Prevent Winter Damage to Vinyl Siding
Maintaining your home’s vinyl siding is key to preventing damage. Start with a professional siding contractor who can provide proper installation. Then, inspect your siding regularly for signs of cracks, dents, gaps, or loose panels. Seal cracks and gaps and repair caulking around doors, windows, and seams.
Trim trees and shrubs to prevent branches from hitting your siding, especially during windy periods. If the gusts are strong enough, branches and limbs can scratch, dent, or crack vinyl siding.
Other Cold Climate Siding Options
Vinyl siding is widely used and often recommended for most residences in the United States, even in the chilly Northeastern States. However, if you live in an especially frigid region with sub-zero temperatures, you might consider these materials instead.
Stone Veneer Siding for Harsh Winters
Stone veneer siding can often withstand climates too cold for vinyl. It’s incredibly strong and durable, and it fares well in freezing winter conditions like snow and ice. It also performs well against wind, hail, and tree branches that may scrape against it.
Like vinyl, however, it can be affected by freeze-thaw cycles. It’s important to note that some types of stones are more porous than others. If your siding is made from a porous stone, like limestone, sandstone, or travertine, water can seep into those pores.
After absorption, the water expands as it freezes, putting pressure on the stone. This can lead to cracks or pieces of stone breaking off, known as spalling. If water penetrates deep enough and reaches behind the stone, the veneer may loosen or detach from the wall.
Fiber Cement Siding for Sub-Zero Conditions
Fiber cement siding is an excellent choice for regions with extremely cold weather, frequently hitting sub-zero temperatures. Because fiber cement is exceptionally durable and resistant to harsh elements, it rarely rots, warps, or cracks. It is highly resistant to moisture, preventing water damage and mold or mildew growth. This resilience is essential in areas with heavy snowfall and frequent freeze-thaw cycles, where moisture can penetrate and damage traditional siding materials.
What Siding is Right for My Home?
Vinyl siding is a solid choice for most homes in the Northeastern United States, like Rochester, NY. With milder seasons and temperatures rarely reaching sub-zero, vinyl can withstand Western New York winters. Practice proper maintenance and inspections, and your vinyl siding could last 20 to 40 years.
If you need help choosing a siding material, talk to a professional roofing contractor who can assess your home and make an expert recommendation.
Oaks Roofing & Siding: Quality You Can Trust
If you’re thinking about new siding for your home, contact Oaks Roofing & Siding. With over twenty years in the industry, our team provides exceptional siding solutions to homeowners. Book an estimate today to see how we can install quality siding to help protect your home for years to come.