In the United States, vinyl remains the most popular option for new siding. Vinyl siding offers energy efficiency, low maintenance, and affordability. But can vinyl siding melt? Yes. Under certain conditions, it remains highly susceptible to melting. For homeowners looking to replace their existing siding, working with a highly qualified siding contractor makes sense to determine whether to choose vinyl.
Can Vinyl Siding Melt?
Low-emissivity (i.e., Low-E) windows have become increasingly popular, especially in northern regions where cooler climates prevail. These innovative and energy-efficient windows help prevent infrared and UV light from penetrating the glass. Unfortunately, the coating that makes them reflective can cause severe damage to vinyl siding, especially in neighborhoods where adjacent houses share proximity.
What Causes Vinyl Siding To Melt
Even with modern technological advances, vinyl siding begins to warp or melt at 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Low-E windows are known to melt vinyl siding because their low emissivity and slightly concave surface create a concentrated and superheated beam of reflected sunlight. When that reflection strikes nearby vinyl siding, the intensity of the resulting heat generated often measures over 200 degrees Fahrenheit.
Ways To Prevent Vinyl Siding From Melting
- Apply a window film to the glass surface of the Low-E window.
Window film fragments the concentrated sunbeam, scattering sunlight in countless directions, thus negating the intensity of the sunbeam.
- Install a full screen over the shining window.
A window screen diffuses the Low-E window surface’s ability to reflect sunlight away from the window.
- Plant an intersecting shrub, tree, or other shade source.
A strategically placed landscaping obstacle (or fencing) blocks the reflected sunbeam from directly impacting the vinyl siding.
- Replace the Low-E window with a non-Low-E window.
A window that does not have the reflective properties of a Low-E window will not cause warping or melting issues on adjacent vinyl siding.
- Use a sunshade or awning above the Low-E window.
Blocking sunlight from directly reaching a Low-E window protects vinyl siding from damaging rays.
What To Do If Vinyl Siding Has Melted
- Determine if a siding manufacturer’s warranty applies. Certain warranties cover repairing or replacing failing siding due to extraneous circumstances.
- Remove and replace vinyl siding with different siding (metal, wood, fiber cement, etc.) that is not susceptible to melting.
- Replace the melted sections of vinyl siding with matching vinyl siding. Work with a siding expert to determine what siding appears most similar.
- Switch to vinyl siding with a much higher heat resistance to eliminate melting. Certain vinyl siding products resist heat up to 250 degrees Fahrenheit.
Based in Indianapolis, IN, Moss Roofing is the area’s highest-rated and most trusted roofing and siding company. With three convenient locations to serve you, we provide honesty, integrity, quality service, and workmanship. We value you and guarantee every homeowner a positive experience. If you have questions regarding your siding, contact us today to schedule an appointment.
