Types of Construction That Use Vinyl Siding

About Vinyl Siding

• Vinyl siding systems consist of vinyl planks or sheets attached to wall sheathing or framing with concealed fasteners. Applied to vinyl siding, the term "concealed fasteners" refers to nails or screws covered by overlapping siding materials. Vinyl siding systems commonly feature interlocking bottom edges. For example, the bottom edge of vinyl siding planks hooks and locks into the upper edge of the preceding plank. Overlapping, interlocked systems shed water and prevent moisture from contacting sheathing and underlayment.

Single-Family Residential

• Single-family residential structures are the most common application for vinyl siding products. The size, shape and texture of vinyl siding for residential structures imitates the appearance of traditional siding materials. For example, horizontally oriented vinyl planks resemble traditional lap siding, vertically oriented planks resemble tongue-and-groove siding, and vinyl siding sheets imitate board-and-batten siding. Additionally, manufacturers mold and press vinyl materials to create wood-grain textures.

Multifamily, Commercial and Alternative Use

• Vinyl siding manufacturers produce cladding products suitable for a broad range of architectural applications, including multifamily structures, such as apartments and condominiums, commercial buildings and agricultural accessory structures. The low maintenance requirements of vinyl siding appeal to commercial property owners. Many vinyl siding products receive integral color during the manufacturing process, eliminating the need for regular refinishing. Additionally, vinyl siding's resistance to deterioration and pest damage further reduces maintenance requirements.

Vinyl Cladding Framing Systems and Substrates

• Vinyl siding attaches to both metal stud walls and wood stud walls. However, most manufacturers advise that builders install vinyl cladding only over an approved sheathing material, such as plywood or orientated strand board. Installers fasten vinyl siding to metal studs with screws and to wood studs with either nails or screws. Alternatively, vinyl siding fastens to masonry surfaces, such as concrete walls, with concrete nails or anchoring hardware.