Types of Siding for Homes
Types of Siding for Homes New siding can significantly improve the look of your home, increasing your home’s curb appeal and resale value. Siding is also crucial in protecting your...
Siding
Average Cost: $5 - $10
Here’s an in-depth review of Ply Gem, including its siding product lines, pricing, customer experiences, and how it compares to other leading siding brands.
Our Verdict: Ply Gem is a strong option for homeowners looking for a wide variety of siding materials and styles at generally affordable price points. However, those seeking premium fiber cement siding or luxury-grade finishes might find better fits with other brands like James Hardie.
Ply Gem, a Cornerstone Building Brands company, has been in the exterior building products industry for over 75 years. Headquartered in Cary, North Carolina, Ply Gem operates across North America and is known for producing a wide range of siding, windows, stone veneer, fencing, and more. Over the years, Ply Gem has expanded its reach and product portfolio through notable acquisitions, including Mastic, Alcoa, and Variform, all of which have strengthened its position in the siding market.
The brand is especially recognized for its vinyl and aluminum siding options, along with insulated siding lines that improve home energy efficiency.
| Best For | Top Product | Cost Installed | Standout Feature | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Affordable vinyl siding | Mastic Ovation | $4.50 to $8.50 per sq. ft. | Wide variety of colors and textures | Limited lifetime transferable warranty |
At Modernize, we appreciate Ply Gem for its commitment to offering diverse siding options at a range of price points. The brand’s vinyl siding is particularly appealing for budget-conscious homeowners, while its insulated siding lines help improve home energy efficiency. Ply Gem also has an extensive color palette and profile selection, making it easy for homeowners to achieve their desired aesthetic.
Choosing Ply Gem siding comes with both benefits and trade-offs.
Ply Gem’s product portfolio spans multiple siding categories across its brands, designed to suit a wide range of budgets, styles, and performance needs. Each category includes its own set of customization options, allowing homeowners to tailor the look and function of their home’s exterior.
Homeowners can choose from dozens of factory-applied colors, various textures (smooth, wood grain, hand-split shake), and a selection of matching trim, soffit, and fascia accessories to complete the exterior design. Many products are engineered to withstand high winds and resist fading, ensuring long-term performance and curb appeal.
Mastic Ovation Vinyl Siding
Mastic Structure Home Insulation System
Variform Camden Pointe
Customer feedback on Ply Gem siding varies by product line. Overall, many homeowners appreciate its durability, affordability, and low maintenance needs, while others have expressed concerns about warranty claim handling and installation quality when performed by non-certified contractors. Reviews are a valuable tool for understanding real-world performance, helping potential buyers weigh the brand’s strengths and weaknesses before making an investment.
“With regard to the warping issue we had with the D5, the D4 is doing fine. I see no issues with the D4 in the same places the D5 warped. Mine was replaced by my contractor under warranty and the process, while being a huge inconvenience, went pretty smoothly.” — Reddit Review
“Looks great and was easy to install as a diy project” — Home Depot DIY Reviewer
“Product was very uniformed in color and was perfectly made. It went together great and easy.” — Home Depot Reviewer
Ply Gem siding generally ranges from $4.50 to $10 per square foot installed, depending on the product line, the home’s size, and the region. Smaller accent projects like stone veneer on an entryway can be much higher on a per-square-foot basis but cost less overall. For example, re-siding a 2,000-square-foot home in Ohio with mid-grade vinyl might cost around $13,500, while a similar project in California could reach $16,000 due to higher labor rates. Adding insulated vinyl siding to a 1,500-square-foot ranch in Texas could range from $11,000 to $14,000.
| Siding Type | Cost Per Sq. Ft. Installed | Example Project Cost (2,000 sq. ft.) |
|---|---|---|
| Vinyl | $4.50 to $8.50 | $9,000 to $17,000 |
| Insulated Vinyl | $6 to $10 | $12,000 to $20,000 |
| Aluminum | $5 to $9 | $10,000 to $18,000 |
| Stone Veneer Accent | $15 to $30 | $3,000 to $6,000 (200 sq. ft.) |
Additional regional variations and model-specific differences can shift these ranges. Higher-end lines within the Mastic or Variform families, or specialty profiles like hand-split shakes, tend to be on the higher end of the spectrum.
The overall cost of Ply Gem siding installation can vary widely based on several key considerations. Understanding these factors will help homeowners budget more accurately and make informed product selections.
Ply Gem products are typically sold through contractors who may offer financing. Homeowners can also explore personal loans, home equity loans, or credit-based financing options.
Ply Gem competes with several well-known siding brands, each with its own strengths in price, quality, and product offerings. When compared to CertainTeed, James Hardie, and Royal Building Products, Ply Gem stands out for its affordability and wide variety of vinyl and insulated siding lines, but may not match the premium appeal or specialized materials offered by some competitors.
Explore Our CertainTeed Review
Explore Our James Hardie Review
Explore Our Royal Building Products Review
Ply Gem siding is a popular choice, and homeowners often ask the following:
Ply Gem siding is widely regarded as a durable and reliable option for exterior cladding. Its vinyl lines resist moisture, rot, and pests, making them low-maintenance. The brand also incorporates advanced manufacturing techniques and rigorous quality controls, contributing to consistent performance over decades.
With proper installation and upkeep, vinyl siding from Ply Gem can last 20 to 40 years, while metal siding options may last 40 to 60 years. Factors such as climate, sun exposure, and maintenance practices can extend or shorten lifespan.
Ply Gem uses proprietary fade-resistant color technology, which helps maintain vibrancy for many years. However, gradual fading can still occur over decades, especially in areas with intense, prolonged sun exposure.
Vinyl siding, including Ply Gem products, is designed to retain its factory-applied finish without painting. While repainting is possible using vinyl-safe paints and proper surface preparation, it may void the manufacturer warranty and should be approached with caution.
Ply Gem siding is sold primarily through authorized contractors, building material suppliers, and regional distributors. Select product lines may also be available at large home improvement retailers.
While Ply Gem excels in affordability and low maintenance, fiber cement brands like James Hardie typically offer superior fire resistance and a more premium aesthetic, albeit at a higher cost and maintenance level.
Certain Ply Gem lines, such as insulated vinyl siding, provide enhanced thermal performance, potentially reducing heating and cooling costs. Energy efficiency can also be improved when siding is combined with proper house wrap and insulation practices.
Choosing Ply Gem siding is ideal for homeowners looking for a balance between cost, aesthetics, and durability. Whether you prioritize low maintenance, energy efficiency, or specific style needs, Ply Gem likely offers a siding solution that aligns with your home improvement goals. It’s recommended to compare samples and consult with a local installer to make the best choice for your specific circumstances.
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