IL License Number: 104.017181

Why More Homeowners Are Upgrading from Wood to Vinyl Siding

After Cedar to Vinyl Siding Conversion in Inverness IL

Old wood siding can add charm to a home—but charm often comes at the cost of constant upkeep, weathering from the Northwest Chicago climate, and expensive repainting.

If your wood siding is starting to show its age, you’re not alone in considering an upgrade. More homeowners today are choosing to replace aging wood exteriors with modern vinyl siding. Why? Let’s break down what makes vinyl such an attractive option—and the key things you need to know before making the switch.

Why Replace Wood Siding?

1. Maintenance Headaches

Wood siding demands a lot. It needs repainting or staining every 5–7 years, is vulnerable to rot and insects, and suffers quickly in wet climates. If any of this sounds familiar, vinyl might be a welcome relief. Once installed, vinyl siding requires nothing more than a simple rinse with a hose now and then.

2. Aging Wood Looks Tired

Even when maintained, old wood siding can begin to cup, crack, or fade over time. Its seams might gap, paint can blister, and nails may rust through. These aesthetic signs are more than cosmetic—they often point to underlying moisture issues or failing insulation.

Aging Wood Siding

What Vinyl Siding Offers

Modern vinyl has come a long way. Gone are the plasticky panels of decades past. Today’s high-end vinyl options mimic real wood grain, come in dozens of fade-resistant colors, and feature improved durability and insulation.

Here are some of the major advantages:

Cost-Effective

Vinyl siding installation is typically 30–60% less expensive than premium wood siding. And unlike wood, vinyl doesn’t need ongoing paint jobs—saving thousands over the life of your home.

Weather-Resistant

Vinyl resists moisture, insect damage, and rot. High-performance vinyl products are engineered to withstand harsh winters, high winds, and even hail. For climates with intense seasonal shifts (like the Midwest), this is a game-changer.

Modern Curb Appeal

From clean horizontal clapboard to rustic cedar shake textures, vinyl can match virtually any home style. Premium brands offer extra-long panels that reduce seams and replicate the look of traditional wood more convincingly.

Real Project: How We Helped a Homeowner Replace Aging Wood with Vinyl

At Holda Construction Roofing and Siding, we recently helped an Inverness homeowner transform their property by removing decades-old wood siding and replacing it with modern vinyl. The original wood was severely weathered—cracked, sun-faded, and constantly peeling. The homeowner had already repainted it multiple times over the years and was ready for a permanent solution that didn’t require a ladder every spring.
We started by removing all the original wood siding down to the sheathing. This allowed us to:
  • Inspect for rot and repair areas damaged by moisture.
  • Add rigid foam board insulation for energy efficiency.
  • Wrap the home in a moisture barrier for long-term protection.

Once the prep work was complete, we installed premium vinyl siding with a natural-looking wood grain texture. The homeowner chose a neutral color that would stay timeless but modern—and thanks to fade-resistant technology, it’ll hold its tone for decades.

The final result was not only more visually appealing, but also dramatically improved the home’s protection against the elements. Even better, the homeowner now enjoys peace of mind with a maintenance-free exterior and lower energy bills thanks to the added insulation.

This project is a perfect example of how removing aging wood siding and upgrading to vinyl isn’t just about looks—it’s a smart investment in performance, longevity, and resale value. To read more about this Inverness home transformation, visit our case study.

Should You Remove Old Wood Siding Before Installing Vinyl Siding?

One of the most common questions we hear is: “Can I install vinyl siding over my existing wood siding?”

Yes, You Can—But Should You?

Installing vinyl siding over wood is possible, but it’s not always ideal. While this method can save on labor, it comes with trade-offs:

Pros of Installing Over Wood:

  • Lower installation costs
  • Less demolition waste
  • Faster project timeline

Cons:

  • You can’t see or fix rot or insect damage hidden underneath
  • May lead to uneven surfaces
  • Trapped moisture can cause mold or long-term damage

In most cases—especially with older siding—we recommend a full tear-off. This gives you the opportunity to inspect your sheathing, improve insulation, and install a proper moisture barrier. Yes, it’s more work up front—but the long-term performance and peace of mind are worth it. Click here to learn more about what’s under your siding.

What Products Work Best?

Choosing high-quality vinyl siding is critical. Here are the leading options we’ve worked with and trust:

Mastic® Quest Premium Vinyl

For the recent Holda Construction Roofing & Siding project in Inverness, we used Mastic Quest: a top-tier option for homeowners seeking both durability and style. It features a thickness of .046 inches, offering excellent strength and rigidity. The homeowners selected a double 4-inch straight profile, which provided a clean, timeless aesthetic. The color—English Wedgewood, a rich and modern blue—dramatically elevated curb appeal while maintaining a classic look. Coordinated J-channel and vinyl corners ensured the trim matched perfectly for a polished, professional finish. Mastic also offers a wide color palette and strong weather resistance, making it ideal for Midwestern climates.

CertainTeed® Monogram or Cedar Impressions

These lines mimic real cedar and come with reinforced nailing strips for added wind resistance. Monogram’s wide color palette also holds up well in the sun.

Consider Insulation Upgrades

Vinyl alone isn’t highly insulating, but many homeowners take this opportunity to add foam board behind the new siding. This can:
  • Improve energy efficiency
  • Reduce outside noise
  • Smooth out uneven walls
Some siding products come with built-in foam backing for even greater insulation value and wall rigidity.

A Fresh Exterior, Done Right

Converting your home from old wood siding to vinyl isn’t just a facelift—it’s a long-term investment in comfort, durability, and style. By removing the aging wood, inspecting and repairing the structure, and installing a well-insulated, low-maintenance vinyl system, you can protect your home for decades while boosting its curb appeal.

If you’re considering making this switch, talk to a professional contractor who can walk you through product options, installation methods, and pricing. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all job—your home deserves a tailored solution.

Looking for more information or a broader perspective? For a comprehensive guide comparing pros and cons of different types of sidings, visit Holda’s siding guide.

Final Thoughts

Wood siding has a natural charm—but with modern vinyl options, you don’t have to sacrifice aesthetics for durability. Whether you’re dealing with cracked boards, peeling paint, or just ready for something easier to manage, vinyl siding can transform your home from tired to timeless.

If you’re exploring this transition, we’d love to provide you with tips to make the project seamless and help guide you through your options. Working together, we’ll surely design a solution that’s right for your home and budget.

Related Posts