When it comes to replacing or remodeling a home’s exterior, many homeowners are looking for a product that is durable, looks good, and requires little maintenance. Vinyl siding fits this bill nicely. With a variety of colors, textures and designs to choose from, this type of cladding gives homeowners an opportunity to tailor their homes’ aesthetics to match their preferences. There is also the fact that the material is relatively inexpensive. This means that homeowners are able to achieve their dream homes at a fraction of the cost they would have spent on a more expensive option, such as natural wood.  In addition, vinyl is extremely tough and can withstand a number of environmental conditions, such as rain, sleet, snow, hail and high winds. This is why most manufacturers offer a 50-year warranty on their products. This is a very long guarantee, particularly for any building materials. As with any material, there are a few things that homeowners should be aware of before purchasing vinyl siding. It isn’t a one-size-fits-all option, so it may not be ideal for a particular climate. The reason for this is that the planks aren’t glued to the wall, instead being fastened with a partial nailing system that allows for float created by expansion and contraction due to temperature changes. Another consideration is that the product will not withstand a direct hit from a baseball, golf ball or other object of similar size. This isn’t to say that the vinyl cannot be damaged, but it should not be subjected to abuse that could cause harm. Finally, a homeowner should always work with a professional when installing vinyl siding. Attempting to do this on one’s own can result in gaps that let in water, moisture and pests. This can cost more in the long run than