Which siding is better: vinyl or acrylic? What is the difference between vinyl and acrylic siding Vinyl or acrylic siding which is better.

Finishing a house can radically change its architectural appearance. Among modern facing materials, siding is popular. These are polymer, metal, cement or wood panels of various colors and textures. Each material gives the siding its properties, and also determines its cost. Durability, lightness, affordable price - these are the advantages of plastic trim. For its manufacture, two types of polymers are used - vinyl and acrylic. To choose vinyl or acrylic siding, you need to figure out which one is better. . An objective assessment will be given by a comparison of the appearance and functional features of the finish.

Faced with the need to choose cladding panels, consumers pay attention to several parameters, by comparing which you can decide on the best option:

• the cost of the product is an important criterion for the product, often it turns out to be decisive;
• lining durability;
• purpose of siding - external or internal placement, installation technology;
• type and shape of panels;
• resistance to external factors: temperature fluctuations, exposure to ultraviolet radiation, mechanical strength;
• ease of maintenance.

Detailed information about each type of finish will help you decide which siding is best. .

Vinyl panels - production and characteristics

Vinyl siding is decorative panels made of polyvinyl chloride. This polymer forms the basis of the material, in addition, calcium carbonate is present in the lower layer, it helps to give the structure the necessary rigidity. The outer structure of the coating is strengthened by titanium dioxide. The outer layer is 20% of the thickness of the panel, it provides moisture and UV resistance. Various modifiers increase the resistance of vinyl to external influences. Coloring pigments give vinyl products the desired shade. Siding is made by extrusion. The polymer is extruded through the molding hole, cut into pieces and receives a working profile. The standard sheet thickness is 0.9-1.2 mm.

Products of three types are produced: spotlights, basement blocks, wall panels. The latter option is offered smooth or with an imitation of the structure of a tree. By form factor, the sheets are divided into three groups:

• S - single;
• D - double;
• T - triple.

The most common finishes are: "herringbone", "ship board", "block house". The basis of the color scheme is made up of light pastel colors. This is due to the tendency of PVC to slightly fade in direct sunlight. Buying vinyl in rich dark colors will cost more due to the addition of special components that prevent fading.

Siding that imitates blockhouse trim

Benefits of PVC finishes

The popularity of vinyl siding is due to its decorative appeal, functionality, low price. The material reliably protects the house from wind, moisture and other external factors. Among the advantages of PVC panels:

• democratic value;
• wide operating temperature range from -50º to +50º C;
• lack of toxicity;
• mechanical strength;
• resistance to moisture, decay, chemicals;
• when exposed to open flame, the material does not burn, but melts;
• a wide range of colors and textures is provided by each manufacturer;
• service life of 25-30 years;
• ease of installation and maintenance.

Installation of vinyl panels does not require special tools and skills. The physical and material costs of finishing a house are lower than those of materials such as wooden lining. Special latches guarantee a secure and easy connection of the panels. Each product is fixed on the crate with self-tapping screws. They are used for the restoration of buildings in need of facade repair, in private and industrial construction, for finishing balconies, loggias, garages.

Acrylic siding - the advantages of modern cladding

Acrylic panels are highly resistant to mechanical and climatic loads. The advantages of finishing are associated with the raw materials for its production, as well as the technology used. Panels are made from ASA acrylic polymer by extrusion or injection molding. Their surface acquires a durable gloss, resistance to ultraviolet, moisture or heat. Coloring pigments give products a bright saturated color, they have no restrictions on shades, like a vinyl counterpart. The special coloring technology of the top layer reduces heat absorption.

The house is finished with acrylic panels in rich berry color.

As additives, substances are used that increase resistance to mold, antistatic agents that reduce electrical conductivity, flame retardants that prevent combustion. Advantages of acrylic panels:

• increased resistance to heat, the operating temperature range is from -50º to +80º C;
• resistance to impact and mechanical stress allows the use of the material on the basement floor;
• the action of ultraviolet does not change the intensity of staining;
• the addition of flame retardants will reduce the fire hazard;
• acrylic is not susceptible to chemical compounds;
• the service life of the finish is 50 years;
• easy installation and minimal maintenance.

Features of installation and operation

Acrylic siding is installed vertically or horizontally. For installation, it is necessary to make a crate of wood. Polymer panels do not load the building, their weight is distributed over the frame. Finishing can be mounted on a building with any surface and height.

Vertical siding in home decoration

Fastening technology provides the ability to insulate the building and leave a gap for ventilation. In this case, the resulting condensate is discharged along the back wall of the panels and does not moisten the insulation. Installation begins with fixing the starting bar, framing slopes, openings and corners. Products are connected by locks and fastened to the crate through the holes of the perforated edge. Rigid fixation of the panels is not allowed, they must expand freely when heated. The installation technology provides for the screwing of self-tapping screws not completely, but with a gap of 1 mm.

Comparative characteristics of polymer panels

Having studied the characteristics and properties of facing materials, we can conclude which one is better. Analyzing the difference between products point by point, it is worth noting the more affordable cost of vinyl siding. Finishing a PVC house will cost less than acrylic. But this factor is not a decisive argument, because this is the only advantage . Acrylic siding is superior to the opponent in several ways:

• last longer, the difference between the service life is 20 years;
• it is 10 times more resistant to ultraviolet radiation, which means it will not lose its original color brightness;
• withstands high impact loads.

Before choosing an acrylic or vinyl finishing material, you should evaluate the degree of illumination. The decoration of the building, located in the shade of trees, will not suffer from the sun's rays. PVC panels will be an excellent material for him - aesthetic and inexpensive. If one part of the building faces the sunny side, the best option would be a combined finish, when the heated area is lined with expensive acrylic.

Acrylic siding outwardly gives the impression of a respectable and reliable finish, and the characteristics confirm its functionality. The high cost of the material is fully justified by the durability of operation without loss of decorative appearance.

Vinyl finishes are as good as acrylic by most criteria, and with a limited construction budget, they have the edge.

The materials have a similar installation and maintenance technology. They are attached to the crate without rigid fixation. In case of damage during operation, the panel can be easily replaced.

Maintenance of the cladding consists in rinsing it with a hose 1-2 times a year, adding detergent if necessary and using a brush. If the building is located near a highway or other area with a high level of pollution, you will have to wash the polymer finish more often. For stubborn stains, a composition with an abrasive is used, which is thoroughly washed off.

Even a specialist will not give unambiguous recommendations about which of the polymer sidings is better. Each consumer, having weighed all the pros and cons, assessing their financial capabilities, the location of the house, the material of its walls, makes their own individual choice.

In contact with

Recently, the decoration of buildings and structures with siding has become increasingly popular.

The purpose of the siding

The purpose of this material is not only to decorate the facade, but also to protect the outer surface of the walls from negative external influences. Among other things, this material is able to hide surface imperfections, providing condensate drainage along the inner surface of the finish. Deciding to choose siding for finishing, you can take advantage of a huge range of materials that can have different colors and textures. Siding is considered a durable material that is ready to last for three decades or more. Due to the fact that the described finish is on sale in a large assortment, consumers often ask themselves the question of which siding is better - vinyl or acrylic.

Criterias of choice

The cost acts as the main point when choosing a finishing or building material. However, consumers also pay attention to technical features, as well as quality characteristics. These include parameters, among which are the durability of the finish, its service life and the ability to maintain its original appearance for a long time. Thinking about which siding is better - vinyl or acrylic, consumers also pay attention to resistance to temperature changes, which can be daily and seasonal. Weather resistance and ease of installation are also important.

Features of vinyl siding

If you do not know what to choose - acrylic or vinyl siding, then you should consider each type of material separately.

For example, vinyl siding is produced using high quality PVC using extrusion technology. The panel includes two layers - internal and external. The first one is impact resistant, while the second one is highly resistant to sunlight. Among the strengths of vinyl siding are ease of installation, as well as unpretentiousness in operation. Thinking about which siding is better - vinyl or acrylic, it is worth considering that the first type of material can be installed on any frame, and you can do without outside help, which becomes possible due to the insignificant mass of a separate panel. This attracts home craftsmen for the reason that they have the opportunity to save on the expensive services of professional craftsmen.

Operation features

By choosing vinyl material, you will not need to periodically touch up the panels or maintain their appearance. For 10 years, you can count on a finish that looks great and requires little to no maintenance. Such material almost does not burn out with time and is resistant to destruction when exposed to extremely low temperatures, the same can be said about high temperatures reaching +50 degrees.

If you decide to opt for vinyl siding, the advantages and disadvantages of this material need to be considered. Among the first, one can additionally highlight the fact that the material is not subject to infection by fungus and mold. It is not attacked by harmful insects. The material does not rot or rust. Owners of private houses choose vinyl siding for the reason that it does not conduct electricity, which is important for free-standing buildings.

Features of acrylic siding

If you still have not decided which siding is better - vinyl or acrylic, you should consider the latest type of material, which is made on the basis of acrylic polymers. Experts recommend choosing an acrylic material for the reason that it has all the advantages of a vinyl material and has some other advantages. Among them, a higher resistance to ultraviolet radiation can be distinguished. This material does not reduce its strength characteristics during the entire period of operation. The panels have no loosening at the fixation points. This material can be operated at a higher temperature, the mark of which reaches 85 degrees. This facing is absolutely not afraid of the effects of chemical solvents, which allows cleaning with synthetic detergents. If you are thinking about the question of which siding is better - acrylic or vinyl, you should read the reviews about these materials before purchasing.

Fire safety

It almost does not burn, and if it is affected by a flame, then the lining begins to emit harmful substances, but in the most minimal quantities. There is a downside, which is expressed in higher finishing costs compared to vinyl siding. However, it is important to take into account a longer service life - half a century or more. That is why it is easy to see the final benefit.

Having decided to choose such a product as a finishing material, use the entire range, which is distinguished by a variety of textures and shades. Siding is a durable material, it is able to reliably retain its original properties for three decades. Since the finishes are presented with choices, homeowners want to know which material is better to use for a wooden house - vinyl or acrylic, or maybe metal.

Applications

Such material is used not only for decorating the facade. It is also used as a protection of walls from negative atmospheric influences. Siding hides the flaws of the facades, it removes condensate along its inner plane. By choosing just such a finish option, the homeowner gets a huge variety of decor options - with different structures and color schemes.

It is precisely because siding is represented by such a large assortment of retail chains that homeowners are perplexed about what material to choose - vinyl, or maybe acrylic or metal.

Criteria for choosing material for sheathing

To choose the right finishing material, carefully understand how the options for its execution differ, evaluate all the operating factors:

1. Price. The decisive parameter that usually influences the choice. The difference in this regard is decent: vinyl material is cheaper. If you calculate the total area of ​​​​finishing, which will turn out when facing the entire facade, it turns out such a huge difference that homeowners stop doubting what to prefer.
2. Accessories. It is imperative to take into account the need to purchase additional accessories for installation. If you choose an acrylic finish, they will also cost more, which will increase the total cost.
3. Climate. Of no small importance in the choice of skin is the nature of the climate for a particular area. When ultraviolet rays actively affect the cladding, prefer a material that is resistant in this regard. Acrylic is better then. To save money, we recommend that when buying a material, make a calculation so that only those surfaces that face the sun are sheathed with expensive plates. Cover the rest of the walls with vinyl siding, choosing the appropriate combination of shades.
4. Mounting option. Although the principle of assembling any lamellas is almost the same, there are, nevertheless, slight differences in different materials. They are in different mounting locks. Since this parameter does not affect the overall functionality of the cladding, it can be ignored. The installation algorithm is almost identical: first, the walls are prepared, then the frame is created. After they are attached to the facade of the strip.

Regarding further operation, the requirements are identical: it is allowed to wash any material with mild, non-aggressive detergents. If necessary, damaged elements are easily changed without disturbing the rest of the surface at all.

Summarizing the listed properties, it is necessary to emphasize that the acrylic material wins only in terms of a greater variety of colors and resistance to ultraviolet rays. Only the homeowner decides whether such benefits are worth paying more for them.

Features of vinyl siding

When vinyl material is chosen for cladding, the homeowner will not have to worry about the appearance of the facade, periodically tinting it. At least 10 years, an excellent look of such a finish is guaranteed, you will have to spend minimal effort on care.

Vinyl practically does not burn out, it perfectly resists low temperatures (as well as extremely high temperatures, reaching +50 °). When deciding to purchase vinyl siding, consider its advantages and disadvantages in advance. Advantages:

• the material is not afraid of mold infection, it does not let in harmful insects;
• the material is not afraid of moisture, does not rot at all;
• Homeowners are attracted to vinyl because it is a dielectric, so it is safe to run electrical wiring over it.

Features of acrylic siding

Connoisseurs recommend acrylic material because of its certain advantages over vinyl material. At the same time, it has other advantages. Among them, high resistance to intense ultraviolet radiation. The material perfectly retains the strength parameters for the entire long period of operation.

Acrylic panels do not weaken in the places where they are fixed. Such material freely withstands high temperatures (up to 85 °). The cladding is absolutely not afraid of chemical solvents, so it is allowed to clean it with synthetic, fairly aggressive detergents. Although acrylic siding is not as combustible, a fire will still completely engulf the house in flames.

Features of metal siding

Any metal siding is recommended only for facing non-residential premises. Such a material has increased strength, it perfectly resists shock loads. The color palette of metal products is represented by a full palette. Such panels are indispensable if the structure is subject to increased requirements regarding fire safety, resistance to mechanical damage and durability.

But metal weighs much more than vinyl with acrylic, so it is allowed to use it for facing a residential country house, but only if there is a powerful foundation designed for increased loads. It is easy to maintain the material, it allows the use of any type of detergent.

If you decide to use metal cladding, it is better to choose aluminum siding. It perfectly resists corrosion, has a low specific gravity, the degree of combustibility of the material is low. To prolong the service life of aluminum cladding, it is recommended to periodically perform anti-corrosion measures. They consist in applying a PVC film to the panels or painting them.

The color range of aluminum panels is represented by all shades of the rainbow, their surface is found smooth or embossed. A significant drawback of such products is poor resistance to mechanical stress, after which noticeable dents remain on the skin.

Metal siding is an airtight material that can corrode. Also among the shortcomings is a lot of weight, a considerable cost of panels.

Solving the difficult question on the topic of what kind of siding should be purchased for facing your own residential building, you need to compare all the advantages and disadvantages of each of the recommended materials. It is required to clearly decide for yourself which parameter to take into account - one-time costs or a long term of operation. We hope that the publication will help you make the right and informed choice.

Acrylic siding is a convenient material that is designed for facade cladding. With it, you can add presentability, luxury and modernity to the appearance of the building. Also, this material serves as an excellent protection for the walls of climatic influences, which prolongs the life of the structure. Reliability, variety of colors and ease of installation make acrylic siding the most popular method of exterior cladding.

Purpose

Siding is a special-purpose cladding panel with which the facades of buildings, basement structures and gables of buildings are finished. Installation is carried out on a special crate using self-tapping screws or metal hanging fasteners.

Today, acrylic siding is very popular among private buildings.(dachas, baths, cottages, etc.). Designed for wall cladding, it gives the building a very original design. In addition, the panels serve as an excellent protection for the walls of the house from environmental influences. Buyers are also attracted by the fact that siding is much simpler and more budgetary than, for example, brick.

Peculiarities

The most important characteristics of acrylic siding are the shape, shades and dimensions of the panels.

According to their external characteristics, the panels are divided into three types:

• ship timber;
• vertical siding;
• block house.

The materials come in a wide range of colors that are deep rich, delicate pastels or real wood imitations. Add-on parts, initial and connecting strips for siding, as a rule, are white. But at the request of the client, components can be made in any color.

The high quality of acrylic materials is directly related to individuality. their components and refinement of processing. The basis for the panels is Acrylnitril-Styrol-Acrylester, which is a modern polymer. This facing material has a lot of advantages compared to its counterparts. It makes the panels much more resistant to UV radiation and high temperatures.

One of the significant advantages of acrylic siding is its high color fastness, which is ten times superior to other facing materials. Vinyl siding burns out faster, that's the difference.

In addition, acrylic is very resistant to chemicals, detergents and all kinds of atmospheric manifestations. The temperature of use ranges from minus to plus eighty degrees. The main advantage of acrylic siding is its high performance, due to which the life of the facade is extended several times. The stability of acrylic siding is directly determined by how high-quality and reliable materials were used for their manufacture.

In addition, the siding is filled with special composite components that fulfill their specific purposes:

• dyes - add shades;
• titanium dioxide - fixes colors;
• chemical components - add elasticity;
• flame retardants - serve as protection against fire in case of fire;
• modifiers - increase mechanical resistance;
• antistatic agents - guarantee the complete absence of static electricity in the panels and safety in case of a thunderstorm.

Pros and cons

Acrylic siding has many positive qualities that make it a great option for finishing facades.

• Its main difference is reliability and resistance to mechanical damage.
• The geometric shape remains unchanged even at a temperature of + 80 degrees.
• Does not contain harmful components.
• The panels have a low degree of flammability (combustibility group G2).
• Durability of color, resistance to ultraviolet rays.
• Very easy to install and easy to maintain.
• The small weight of the material, which does not significantly increase the overall weight of the building.
• Resistant to acids and alkalis.

One of the main disadvantages of acrylic siding is its rather high cost.

The remaining disadvantages of this material appear only when mistakes were made during its production, old-style equipment was used, or the correct ratio of components was not observed. These oversights can expose the material to cracking and rapid discoloration. If the installation of acrylic panels was done incorrectly, this can lead to the fact that after a while the panels will lose their original shape. If the rules of production and installation are followed correctly, then acrylic siding will not cause any inconvenience for many years.

Dimensions

Sidings are divided into vertical and horizontal, which directly depends on the type of their fastening. Standard siding of the type of ship timber has a length of 366 cm and a width of 230 mm. Vertical siding is 310 cm long and 205 mm wide. Acrylic blockhouse panels are identical in length to vertical ones, but the width depends on their variety: a single-fracture blockhouse is 200 mm wide, and a double-fracture blockhouse is 320 mm wide.

Acrylic siding panels are 1.1 mm thick. Also, sizes may vary depending on the lines that produce these materials. For example, the AltaProfil company produces panels of a standard size: their length is 3660x230 mm, and their thickness is 1.1 mm. The Quadrohouse line has an original style and has dimensions of 3100x200 mm. And the Ortho brand is engaged in the production of blockhouse-type siding. Their panels are 3100x205 mm in size and are distinguished by wind resistance up to 250 km/h.

Design

When it comes to design, acrylic siding comes in a wide range of colors and shades. The most popular of these are sand shades and colors that mimic various types of trees, especially colors that look like natural dark and light woods, as well as pistachio shades.

If you like natural wood look siding, then acrylic block house siding is perfect for you. They are produced on the basis of innovative technologies for coloring the top layer with a heat absorption technique. These materials very naturally imitate wood.

Log sidings, which are distinguished by specific embossing, like a real tree, can boast of the greatest demand.

Also not inferior in popularity are acrylic sidings that imitate timber, which in their appearance resemble painted or treated wood.

Scope of application

Most of all, acrylic sidings are in demand in private housing construction, but siding is often used in the construction of commercial real estate.

Acrylic siding is popular for finishing the following types of facades:

• private buildings made of logs, beams and foam blocks;
• fast-mounted frame buildings;
• shops, pavilions, cafes;
• administrative and office establishments;
• garages, bathhouses, verandas, cottages.

The main reason why people resort to acrylic siding is that it creates excellent protection for the facade of buildings from external climatic conditions.

In addition, siding allows you to insulate the building, as it does not allow cold air to pass through. Thanks to the combination of different shades and siding options in one cladding, you can easily transform the appearance of your building and make it unique.

Recently, the decoration of buildings and structures with siding has become increasingly popular.

The purpose of this material is not only to decorate the facade, but also to protect the outer surface of the walls from negative external influences. Among other things, this material is able to hide surface imperfections, providing condensate drainage along the inner surface of the finish. Having decided to choose siding for finishing the facade of the house, you can take advantage of a huge range of materials that can have different colors and textures. Siding is considered a durable material that is ready to last for three decades or more. Due to the fact that the described finish is on sale in a large assortment, consumers often ask themselves the question of which siding is better - vinyl or acrylic.

Criterias of choice

The cost acts as the main point when choosing a finishing or building material. However, consumers also pay attention to technical features, as well as quality characteristics. These include parameters, among which are the durability of the finish, its service life and the ability to maintain its original appearance for a long time. Thinking about which siding is better - vinyl or acrylic, consumers also pay attention to resistance to temperature changes, which can be daily and seasonal. Weather resistance and ease of installation are also important.

Features of vinyl siding

If you do not know what to choose - acrylic or vinyl siding, then you should consider each type of material separately.

For example, vinyl siding is produced using high quality PVC using extrusion technology. The panel includes two layers - inner and outer. The first is impact resistant, while the second is a high degree of resistance to sunlight. Among the strengths of vinyl siding are ease of installation, as well as unpretentiousness in operation. Thinking about which siding is better - vinyl or acrylic, it is worth considering that the first type of material can be installed on any frame, and you can do without outside help, which becomes possible due to the insignificant mass of a separate panel. This attracts home craftsmen for the reason that they have the opportunity to save on the expensive services of professional craftsmen.

Operation features

By choosing vinyl material, you will not need to periodically touch up the panels or maintain their appearance. For 10 years, you can count on a finish that looks great and requires little to no maintenance. Such material almost does not burn out with time and is resistant to destruction when exposed to extremely low temperatures, the same can be said about high temperatures reaching +50 degrees.

If you decide to opt for vinyl siding, the advantages and disadvantages of this material need to be considered. Among the first, one can additionally highlight the fact that the material is not subject to infection by fungus and mold. It is not attacked by harmful insects. The material does not rot or rust. Owners of private houses choose vinyl siding for the reason that it does not conduct electricity, which is important for free-standing buildings.

Features of acrylic siding

If you still have not decided which siding is better - vinyl or acrylic, you should consider the latest type of material, which is made on the basis of acrylic polymers. Experts recommend choosing an acrylic material for the reason that it has all the advantages of a vinyl material and has some other advantages. Among them, a higher resistance to ultraviolet radiation can be distinguished. This material does not reduce its strength characteristics during the entire period of operation. The panels have no loosening at the fixation points. This material can be operated at a higher temperature, the mark of which reaches 85 degrees. This facing is absolutely not afraid of the effects of chemical solvents, which allows cleaning with synthetic detergents. If you are thinking about the question of which siding is better - acrylic or vinyl, you should read the reviews about these materials before purchasing.

Fire safety

Acrylic siding almost does not burn, and if it is affected by a flame, then the cladding begins to release harmful substances, but in the most minimal quantities. There is a downside, which is expressed in higher finishing costs compared to vinyl siding. However, it is important to take into account a longer service life - half a century or more. That is why it is easy to see the final benefit.

Additional comparative characteristics of the two materials

Vinyl siding reviews will help you make the right choice. For example, homeowners note that this material does not look as representative as acrylic. Among other things, the latter kind of material is deformed quite rarely, unlike the opponent. Acrylic material is 10 times more UV resistant. However, do not think that this finish does not fade at all. But the reviews do not recommend spending money on such a finish if the house is located in a shady area, and the sun's rays do not fall on its facade. In this case, overpaying will be inappropriate.

Quite often, consumers also pay attention to maintainability. However, in this case, there is absolutely no difference between the materials. Both types of cladding are equally convenient to repair in case of mechanical damage, when it becomes necessary to replace a separate panel with a new one.

Caring for both types of cladding is quite simple. You can use special tools for this, but they are usually not required. If you decide to use the cost in the comparative description, then you need to know that the price of a vinyl panel is approximately 120 rubles. Whereas acrylic siding will cost 180 rubles apiece. The benefit is greater if the facade area is more impressive. The cost will also vary when purchasing components: corners and rails. If possible, the materials in different areas can be combined, which will save on those areas of the facade that are not exposed to the harmful effects of sunlight.

Conclusion

When thinking about which siding to choose for your residential home, you must weigh the pros and cons of the materials. Although acrylic siding is less flammable, if a fire breaks out, the entire house will be engulfed in flames anyway. You must decide what is more important for you at the initial stage - one-time costs or a longer service life.

Exterior decoration of houses, buildings and structures is a great way to create an individual appearance of the building and embody traditional or unusual design ideas. Siding among modern facing materials has been very popular for many years due to the variety of types of panels by type of coating, colors, combination of specific technical characteristics and affordable cost. Consumers are often simply lost in the choice, and manufacturers periodically offer new developments, unique technological solutions. For example, to understand which siding is better vinyl or acrylic, it is enough just to consider in detail several aspects.

Vinyl siding - manufacturing, characteristics and features of the material

The main raw material for the manufacture of vinyl panels is polyvinyl chloride.. In addition to it, the composition of the siding includes various modifiers, dyes and pigments, other chemicals and additives. A certain profile of the plates is obtained by the extrusion method - the alloy is squeezed out through a hole with a given shape, and then cut to the desired size.

Vinyl siding "Alta-Profile"

With this production technology, vinyl siding is formed in two layers:

• the inner layer provides rigidity and strength of the panel due to the addition of calcium carbonate to the composition;
• the outer layer, due to the presence of titanium dioxide, creates protection against external factors and weather conditions.

The optimal selection of components for the manufacture of vinyl siding guarantees its main advantages:

• durability in operation subject to the installation technology;
• the material does not absorb moisture, does not rot and does not require additional treatment with special agents against rodents and other pests;
• ease of fastening and installation of panels due to their low weight and locking overlap;
• use of panels in the temperature range - from -50°С to +50°С;
• protection against fading when exposed to sunlight;
• not whimsical in care - small dirt is cleaned with warm water, and small scratches are almost invisible on the surface due to the homogeneous outer layer;
• a variety of shades (light and pastel) and textures, including imitation of natural surfaces - stone, wood.

Acrylic siding is a new and improved version of vinyl siding.

Acrylic siding "Alta-Profile"

Acrylic panels are produced using the same technology as vinyl. The qualitative difference lies in the preparation of the feedstock and the special selection of components. Acrylic polymers serve as the basis for the outer layer, special polymer additives ASA (Acrylnitril-Styrol-Acrylester) are attached to them, which makes the siding even more resistant to ultraviolet radiation, mechanical damage, and thermal effects. Additionally, the composition is added: biochemical stabilizers, antistatic agent, fire retardants, special reagents.

It is this balance of components that helps to obtain the distinctive properties of acrylic siding panels:

• resistance to mold and fungus, which allows you to install panels on the basement of buildings,
• increased strength to mechanical and climatic loads, heating, chemical compositions, aggressive environmental factors,
• operating temperature range - from -50°С to +80°С (for some manufacturers even up to +85°С),
• after installation, the panels do not shrink, retain their shape and color well throughout the entire service life (they do not fade in the sun),
• fast easy installation of plates.

In general, acrylic siding retains all the advantages of vinyl, and in some respects far surpasses it.

Taking into account the addition of special pigments and dyes, acrylic panels acquire a variety of rich, bright shades, sometimes even with an external gloss, depending on the type of coating. The facade of the house can be decorated in any style, embodying original design ideas. Moreover, acrylic siding, like vinyl siding, can be installed on a prepared frame in a horizontal or vertical way of attaching the plates.

The main differences between the two types of panels

Acrylic or vinyl siding has its own characteristics. A comparative table of parameters will help in making the final decision on the purchase of the material:

Mechanical strength (impact and directional impact)	high in summer months, much lower in winter	high regardless of the season
Guaranteed service life	at least 30 years old	at least 50 years old
Color retention ability	over time, there is a noticeable change in shade	do not fade under direct and prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation
The possibility of deformation when heated	change in size with prolonged exposure to heat	do not heat up
Maximum temperature value	up to +50°С	up to +80°С – 85°С
Color palette and type of coating	mostly light, wood, brick, stone	dark, bright, glossy, wood grain
Appearance	do not have a clear structure	full imitation of natural coatings

According to the characteristics comparison table, it becomes clear what is the fundamental difference between the panels. However, the higher performance properties of acrylic siding affect its cost - it is 40-50% more expensive than vinyl siding. As an example, a small overview of panel manufacturers:

It is important to note that the cost of additional elements and accessories for acrylic panels is also higher than those made of vinyl.

The main criteria for choosing a material

In each case, it is recommended to choose which siding is better for exterior decoration, vinyl or acrylic, taking into account the following factors:

• the planned budget for the general set of materials - often the financial constraint significantly affects the final choice,
• expected service life (maximum),
• the appearance and shape of the panels, the type of coating,
• method of fastening panels and the main features of installation,
• climatic conditions in the region and the level of exposure to ultraviolet radiation - the resistance of panels to temperature fluctuations, exposure to ultraviolet radiation.

According to experts, if the house is located on the sunny side, it is best to choose acrylic siding for installation - it is resistant to heat and retains the original color of the panels. Vinyl siding can be used for finishing buildings with light snow loads and in areas with a temperate climate. And, on the contrary, in regions with extreme climatic conditions, acrylic panels will be the best option. Sometimes, in order to save money, you can choose a combination of siding panels:

• plinth decorate with acrylic,
• walls are vinyl.

It's important to know

Remember that the manufacture of siding from unscrupulous manufacturers is possible from recycled materials, so such panels will have a low level of quality. As a rule, they do not even have a certificate.

High-quality siding, both from vinyl and acrylic, is easy to determine by visual inspection - the panels have the same thickness throughout the sheet and a uniformly painted surface on the front and inside. The high cost of acrylic siding is fully justified by its longer service life without losing the main advantages of the material. Vinyl cladding is almost as good as acrylic cladding in most respects and is a cost-effective replacement if you're on a tight budget.

Advantages and disadvantages

Vinyl siding

Advantages of PVC products:

Vinyl also has its downsides.

acrylic material

The disadvantages include:

What is the difference between vinyl siding and acrylic siding?

Characteristics of vinyl and acrylic

PVC

PVC properties:

• Temperature resistance. Products can be used in conditions where the performance exceeds +50 degrees. The material begins to melt at temperatures above 150 ° C, and burn - at 500 degrees.

  Low-quality PVC panels are deformed at the slightest overheating or severe frosts

Material characteristics:

What is the best siding for home cladding

Exterior cladding of the house is a responsible event, which involves the acquisition of a suitable finishing material. An excellent solution would be vinyl and acrylic siding. But these varieties have differences that must be considered in specific circumstances. Only an assessment of all properties and characteristics will allow you to make an accurate choice.

Advantages and disadvantages

Which siding is better: vinyl or acrylic? To make the right decision, you need to compare the pros and cons of materials.

Vinyl siding

Advantages of PVC products:

1. Moisture resistance. The panels have a minimum level of water absorption, which prevents damage to the integrity of the structure.
2. Frost resistance. Parts are able to withstand temperatures up to -50 degrees.

   A temperature range of 100ºС is considered normal for polymer products

3. Wear resistance. The material is not subject to decay and does not contribute to the spread of microorganisms. Does not deform when exposed to wind and hail.
4. Safety. Although the products cannot be called absolutely environmentally friendly, they do not pose a threat to the life and health of others.
5. Additional sound and heat protection. The surface prevents the penetration of noise, and when the air gap is installed, it significantly reduces heat loss.
6. Durability. Service life - at least 20-30 years.
7. Ease of installation. Laying due to the low weight of the panels is carried out without the involvement of assistants.

   How to Install Vinyl Siding Do It Yourself

8. There is a wide range of textures and colors to create appeal.

All these parameters are inherent in high-quality material that has the necessary certificates of conformity.

Vinyl also has its downsides.

• Discoloration. This is true even for expensive varieties, although if they are used, the loss of the original color will take much longer.

  The weak point of most vinyl siding models is fading in the sun.

• temperature expansion. This factor must be taken into account during installation. To level its consequences, special compensation gaps are arranged.
• Static. The coating attracts and accumulates dust, which leads to a loss of decorative effect.

Attention! On the market of finishing materials there is a large number of PVC products made with violation of technology or from low-quality components. This finish becomes unusable after one season of operation.

acrylic material

The advantages of acrylic products are similar to the previous version, but are complemented by the following advantages:

1. The coating keeps its shape even at high ambient temperatures.
2. Resistance to mechanical impact.
3. Preservation of color under the influence of ultraviolet radiation.
4. Ease of care. The surface can be washed even with chemicals (subject to the choice of a suitable composition).

   Acrylic is much easier to care for.

5. Decorative. Outwardly, many varieties perfectly imitate the texture of natural materials.

The disadvantages include:

• Mandatory presence of expansion gaps that prevent the harmful effects of thermal expansion.
• There are many fakes, as well as products made in violation of technology or on outdated equipment.
• The acrylic variety has a higher cost, which affects the budget of the work.

Approximate prices for acrylic siding models

On a note! Both options have a basement variety, which allows finishing in difficult operating conditions.

What is the difference between vinyl siding and acrylic siding?

Acrylic siding is a relatively new material for cladding wooden houses and cottages, but the popularity and demand for products is steadily growing. What is its difference from the vinyl version?

Fundamental parameters of vinyl and acrylic finishes in comparison

The difference is in the following parameters:

1. The production of acrylic panels is an advanced technology that involves a more accurate selection of all components and the use of brighter dyes.
2. Contains components that reduce static electricity and reduce the risk of fire.
3. A special additive based on polymers is used - Acrylnitril-Styrol-Acrylester (ASA).

Quality acrylic copolymer ASA in the world produces only a few companies

A more detailed analysis of products made of acrylic and vinyl turns out that the materials have almost the same base and the first variety is an improved variation of the second. The parameters are improved due to the ACA copolymer (acrylic), which is an external coating that is connected to the base by co-extrusion.

Characteristics of vinyl and acrylic

Features and characteristics of each material depend on the main components.

PVC

PVC properties:

• Resistance to corrosion and decay due to the fact that water does not have a detrimental effect.
• Temperature resistance. Products can be used in conditions where the performance exceeds +50 degrees. The material begins to melt at temperatures above 150 ° C, and burn - at 500 degrees. Low-quality PVC panels are deformed at the slightest overheating or severe frosts
  

  On a note! Elimination of the source of influence leads to self-extinguishing of the coating. But you should definitely use a special protective respirator, since harmful substances are released during the process of melting and burning.

• The non-conductivity of electricity. If the wiring passed through the frame system is damaged, the finish will not become a source of danger.

Good PVC siding is only 80% polyvinyl chloride, the rest is additives: calcium carbonate, butadiene, titanium dioxide, pigments, modifiers and antistatic agents.

All PVC panels are made from the same polymer

Important! High-quality panels cannot be glossy, since the technology involves the addition of matting agents to the top layer.

Acrylic

Material characteristics:

• Resistant to high temperatures. Holds up well to 90 degrees. With short-term heating up to 110 degrees, it does not deform. Brittleness appears at temperatures below -30°C.
• Safety. When melting, no harmful substances are released.
• Non-susceptibility to ultraviolet radiation. The coating does not lose color saturation even after a considerable time.

  Over time, the brightness of the color of the acrylic finish is not lost.

• Neutrality to moisture. Due to this, mold and fungus do not multiply.
• Resistance to chemicals. The panels can be washed with various means, and they are also not destroyed when the house is near a highway or an enterprise.

Such parameters significantly increase the durability of the product.

Acrylic siding retains its original appearance for a long time

What is the best siding for home cladding

To choose the best option, consider the following factors:

1. Mounting. Varieties have a similar installation process, which depends on the specific type of product. This cladding is great for wooden houses, because it allows you to use a wooden crate.
2. Price. The vinyl variety is cheap. Accordingly, the total cost, taking into account the purchase of components, will also be less.
3. Sunlight resistance. Here acrylic is superior to PVC, so for areas with a long warm period, this is the best solution. But there are modern types of vinyl with special additives that significantly prolong the fading period.

   Comparison of sun faded and new cladding

4. Lifetime. The leader in this indicator is acrylic siding.
5. Care. Acrylic material requires less attention, because it has better antistatic properties. It can also be washed with various chemicals without fear of damage.

But you need to make a decision based on the real situation and the availability of material at points of sale.