Insulation Under Vinyl Siding

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

Insulation under vinyl siding.

Continuous insulation under new siding has become a popular way to improve energy efficiency on an existing home because it addresses a problem known as thermal bridging. An honest professional vinyl siding contractor will tell you exactly what you re getting. Most homes in the united states are built with traditional wood frame construction with studs every 16 on center. Installing foam board insulation under vinyl siding today more than ever before homes are being built with foam board insulation installed on the outside of the sheathing and under the siding.

We will start with hot climates. It also serves as an air barrier. Installation of this insulation type under fiber cement siding can create an incredible 600 more energy efficient home. Before installing vinyl siding over existing wood siding or wall sheathing the wood must be dry and in good condition.

Below are some of the design details along with the benefits. I thought i should show why continuous foam under the exterior siding is so important. Many houses built today have a double wall type of insulation with fiberglass batts fastened between the studs on the inside and rigid foam board over. 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.

So if you re comparing proposals to install new vinyl siding on your home please be aware of this important fact. Why insulation under the siding is important. How to install rigid foam under siding. Installing insulation over moisture or existing rot can create larger headaches later.

There are insulated rigid foam products that will increase the insulation factor but you ll pay much more for r 5 to r 7. 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. Hot climates already have a lot of heat and vinyl siding tends to expand and contract with temperature changes up to 1 if the siding is made of recycled vinyl material. As many things in building science go you my dear reader have to learn something.

I get asked if this or that in the in the cavity works as well as foam under the siding. In fact you can check if it is a correct insulation installation by pressing on the house siding. Foil faced foam board insulation is a great idea but is not a good choice for hot climates or cold climates as an exterior insulation product. To be completely efficient this insulation type has to mold perfectly with the inside of your home siding.