Does Vinyl Siding Need Insulation

Insulated vinyl siding is standard vinyl siding with a backing of solid rigid foam insulation.

Does vinyl siding need insulation.

Studies backed by the siding industry have shown that insulated vinyl siding offers modest benefits at a substantial cost. Two studies indicate some benefits to using insulated vinyl siding but more data is needed to win over this skeptic. The adhesive used to attach the siding to the vinyl actually cures to create a permanent bond between the two components. I m preparing to replace the 30 year old vinyl siding on my house in virginia.

Rigid foam insulation and vinyl siding. The vinyl siding acts as a skin permanently adhered to the insulating foam core. Insulated vinyl siding is made of two primary components. It also serves as an air barrier.

Installing foam insulation under vinyl siding is a wise choice for homeowners who are seeking to protect their homes against moisture infiltration as well as improve energy efficiency. I just want you to know the difference so you can compare apples to apples when getting quotes for vinyl siding. Also during this siding process you may also consider asking your contractor to add foam insulation between the vinyl and the house wrap for increased r value. Reduced energy use ranging from just 1 percent to about 11 percent.

Insulated vinyl siding advantages. By filling the voids behind the siding s stepped profile the insulation makes the complete material stiffer and more resistant to warping and movement than conventional vinyl siding. Pros and cons of insulated vinyl siding vs non insulated siding. Generally referred to as rigid foam insulation this type of foam insulation is also called foam board foam plastic insulated.

The ease of installation varies for each type of siding. Vinyl and engineered wood siding are lightweight and the installation process is straightforward. I was thinking to apply housewrap there currently is none then 1 4 fan fold insulation and non insulated vinyl siding or the housewrap then insulated vinyl siding. Setting aside the overall environmental profile of the oft demonized pvc check our coverage in this month s ebn feature the pvc debate.

Here is an overview of the data. Consider purchasing siding insulation or an insulated version of your desired siding to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. There are insulated rigid foam products that will increase the insulation factor but you ll pay much more for r 5 to r 7. Thanks for the info todd.

However the additional thickness of the insulation adhered to the siding does create some challenges that must be understood prior to installation. This will help your house wrap perform better and if you re already siding your house you may as well include it as installing it later will require a complete re siding. A fresh look i ve been getting a lot of questions about insulated vinyl siding the vinyl siding with form fitted.