Philadelphia Aluminum Siding

Aluminum siding has a long history in this country and was an integral part of giving the American home the look it has today. Initially made to be an alternative to wood siding, aluminum brought cost effectiveness and longevity to the siding table. Like Sly Stallone in Rocky, aluminum siding in Philadelphia homes has been going the distance for many years. Unfortunately, like Drago in Rocky IV, Philadelphia aluminum siding sales have fallen hard since the rise in popularity of less expensive vinyl siding. While definitely considered the underdog in the battle for cladding in the future, there are still some qualities of aluminum siding that keep it a contender in the world of building materials.

Vinyl vs. Aluminum Siding in Philadelphia
In this contest, the competition is very close. For the conditions present in Philadelphia, aluminum siding and vinyl siding both have something to offer. Aluminum generally lasts longer than vinyl. On the other hand, vinyl doesn't dent as easily and doesn't readily show scratches. Aluminum holds paint better and doesn't become brittle in cold weather, but vinyl is much easier to maintain and, though it's not good to paint on, as long as you're happy with the original color, you most likely won't ever need to paint it.

Basically, the pros and cons of both of these siding materials cancel each other out. What you're left with in the end is the price, where vinyl tends to win. Initial installation aside, vinyl is generally cheaper in the long run because it requires so little maintenance (and, therefore, fewer maintenance bills). The only real exception to this is when vinyl is installed improperly. Vinyl expands and contracts much more than aluminum. If it's not installed correctly, this can lead to damage to the siding itself as well as moisture issues that occur underneath the siding.

Steel vs. Aluminum Siding
Steel siding is much stronger than either aluminum or vinyl and has certain qualities that make it extremely well suited to certain situations. In general, however, steel siding doesn't have a very desirable look for a residential setting and feels more at home in commercial and industrial uses. If choosing between steel and vinyl or aluminum to cover a work shed, steel is a pretty good choice for Philadelphia conditions. On a house, however, aluminum is a much better option than its stronger, more expensive metal brother.

When to not Use Siding
In some cases, you might want to avoid both vinyl and aluminum siding. Philadelphia residences with homes that are already clad in brick are doing themselves and their community an injustice by covering it up. Brick, even if it's not in the best condition, is generally worth holding onto. It is an expensive material, it is extremely durable, and if you live in an older neighborhood where most of the houses are brick, covering yours up with just about anything could make your property less marketable.

Philadelphia Aluminum Siding Prices
Aluminum siding prices are comparable to that of vinyl and are in the $5,000 to $10,000 range depending on the size of the job. While it will probably last just as long or even longer, the upkeep prices of aluminum will be more than those of vinyl. On the plus side, aluminum siding tends to raise the market value of your property more than vinyl does, which might make it worth the extra effort!