Source: REPLACEMENT CONTRACTOR Magazine

By E.L.

Vinyl siding has long been a sensible choice for consumers who want to refurbish the exteriors of their homes. Now, new technology and fresh ideas are making vinyl siding not just practical but aesthetically appealing, as well. More and more, homeowners are choosing vinyl based on color and trim options, says Jeff Landon, of Atlantis Building Products. Manufacturers have responded to this trend with gusto.

Vinyl siding makers are finding ways to spin “wood” from PVC. The new grains and textures on vinyl siding panels look realistic — and not just from afar. This means more choices for homeowners who don't want the high maintenance required with wood but fear “artificial” siding will make their house look like plastic. It's simply not the case anymore, and consumers should be made aware of the advances in the industry.

Another wood imitator that's improving all the time is fiber cement. Contractors are happy with this composite of cement, sand, cellulose fiber, and other additives because it can be worked like wood — you can nail it and paint it easily — but it lasts much longer. Installers should note that fiber cement generates a lot of dust and is hard on saw blades. In the long run, however, it's a good choice because it resists termites and doesn't rot.

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