Vinyl Soffit vs Aluminum Soffit

Vinyl soffit comes in handy for home improvement projects. Soffit is the material used on the underside of many features in the home. You can install it under eaves, stairs, arches, or cornices. The soffit seals an open space which helps to complete an installation. Soffits also help to protect your home. Vinyl and aluminum are two widely used materials for soffits. Some knowledge of the pros and cons of each can help you make a good choice.

Vinyl Soffit Pros

Vinyl is an affordable construction material. This makes it easier to complete construction jobs without financial constraints being a hindrance. The soffit comes in various grains and colors which enables you to complete your décor with ease. Vinyl has a high durability and does not degrade or fade easily with time. Many manufacturers now produce more resilient vinyl soffits than previously. These do not easily become brittle or crack. Vinyl also has a higher impact resistance than aluminum which adds to its durability. When used under eaves, it helps to improve insulation. Less energy is utilized to heat and cool the house which brings down your energy costs with time. Vinyl soffit is low maintenance yet it keeps in good shape for a long time. It doesn’t require to be painted. You can spray wash the soffit once or twice a year, or as the need arises.

Cons

For some people, vinyl gives a cheap look and has low aesthetic value. The soffit can be damaged by high temperatures including barbeque heat. Over time, the soffit becomes brittle because of exposure to sunlight. Mold can also develop on vinyl soffit, especially in damp conditions. Extensive development of mold spoils the appearance of your home. It also necessitates maintenance which adds to your home improvement costs.

Aluminum Soffit Pros

Aluminum soffits help to conceal any imperfections better than vinyl. This is partly because of the soft nature of aluminum. It makes it easier to work with and fit into the earmarked space. Aluminum soffit has a high durability, especially in the absence of impact damage. It does not chip, crack, or rot. In the event of a fire, it won’t burn since it is non-combustible. Aluminum soffit can actually slow down fire progression. This can help to save your property. The low maintenance requirements of aluminum soffit appeal to homeowners. It doesn’t attract dirt easily and is easy to keep clean. Water or rust causes no wear and tear effect on the soffit. This makes it ideal in wet or coastal areas.

Cons

Aluminum soffit costs more than vinyl. If you need to install over a large area, it pushes your budget upwards. Insurance costs are also higher for aluminum soffit. This is due to the risk of damage by impact caused by adverse weather conditions. Although it is fairly durable, aluminum soffit doesn’t hold up well under impact. If enough force is applied, the soffit gets dented. This necessitates repairs or replacement which adds to your overall costs. Aluminum soffit also has poor insulation qualities.