Which Is of Higher Quality: Aluminum or Plastic Siding?

Paint

• Both aluminum and vinyl siding come in a variety of colors and styles. However, according to This Old House, you have to prepare aluminum siding very carefully to increase the life of the paint job. Vinyl siding does not need to be painted, because a broad spectrum of colors is available. You can paint vinyl siding if you decide that you want to change colors, but you must use special paint to ensure even coating and adequate coverage, as noted by Sherwin Williams.

Maintenance

• Both aluminum and vinyl are low-maintenance siding materials. For general cleaning, both materials can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a cleaning towel. According to the Home Depot, you should clean your vinyl siding regularly if it is an imitation wood product. Routine cleaning will make the wood appearance more authentic. If your vinyl siding develops mold or fungus, clean it with a specialized commercial product or a mixture of white vinegar and water. When you clean aluminum siding, do not use abrasive sponges or other items that may cause scratches, since aluminum is not scratch-resistant.

Strength

• Generally speaking, aluminum is a stronger material than vinyl and resists warping and sagging, as noted in Black and Decker's book "The Complete Guide to Roofing, Siding and Trim." Vinyl siding is sensitive to temperature fluctuation, which makes it more prone to buckling caused by expansion and contraction during weather changes. However, although aluminum is not prone to temperature-related damage, it is more prone to impact damage such as dents and scratches.

Rot and Other Damage

• Vinyl siding is sensitive to insecticides and herbicides, so avoid spraying these products directly on your siding to avoid damage. However, both vinyl and aluminum are resistant to insects, rot, and fungal or mold problems. Impact damage is the primary concern with aluminum siding. If you want to use an environmentally friendly siding material, avoid vinyl, which is hard to recycle and releases harmful toxins during the manufacturing process. Aluminum is a greener option, because it is a recyclable material.