Insulated vinyl siding and traditional vinyl siding look the same. However, insulated siding offers added benefits, such as reduced demand on your home heating and cooling system. The rigid foam backing provides insulation that contributes to energy savings; permanently adhered to the siding panel, it is made of expanded polystyrene (EPS) and fills voids in the siding material’s profile. If you’re a homeowner planning an exterior house renovation, here are several reasons why you should consider installing insulated vinyl siding.
Energy Efficiency
A few characteristics enable your home to be cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Insulated siding is measured by its R-value, which is used to measure the energy efficiency of building materials. Almost a quarter of a home’s walls are not insulated. The greater a material’s R-value, the more efficient it is. Look for insulated vinyl siding with R-2, R-3, or R-4, which is an improvement over brick, aluminum, stucco, or steel materials with an R-value of less than 1. It can provide energy savings in the form of lower heating/cooling costs and keep your home more comfortable.
Durability
Insulated vinyl siding is considered high performance because it is resistant to damage from the sun, water, and mold. Traditional siding may have a similar appearance, but is hollow, so it doesn’t provide the same protection. Insulated vinyl is weather-resistant and can tolerate extreme temperatures, heavy rain, hail, and wind. This makes it much more durable compared to alternative materials.
Low Maintenance
This type of siding is easy to install and repair, so it has a lower cost of ownership. It can be cleaned with soap and water once a year and won’t chip, crack, or peel. Insulated vinyl siding is also resistant to rotting and fading. It never needs to be painted or caulked. Since there are no gaps between the wall and insulation, insects and other pests cannot get in.
Curb Appeal
The choice of siding can beautify the exterior of your home. It looks clean because there are fewer seams and irregularities, and insulated siding doesn’t get damaged as easily, so minor mishaps won’t affect the appearance of your house. Plus, there are many styles, textures (including faux wood/stone), and colors to choose from. The numerous color options available can be matched to your preferences and home’s architecture.
Noise Reduction
If outside sounds disturb activities, such as having conversations, sleeping, or watching TV, they are considered noise pollution. Insulated vinyl siding can dampen noise from cars, barking dogs, lawn mowers, and more. Extreme noise can affect your quality of life and overall health, but this siding can allow your home to be a peaceful and relaxing retreat.
Conclusion: Is Insulated Vinyl Siding Worth It?
There are pros and cons to installing insulated vinyl siding. The benefits mentioned above—energy efficiency, curb appeal, weather resistance—can make the investment worth it. However, it does cost more to install than traditional vinyl siding. The expense is its primary drawback and is due to greater durability, a more complex manufacturing process, and higher shipping costs. Insulated vinyl siding is certainly a better option if you have the budget and plan to live in your home for many years.
Contact Window World of Boston
At Window World of Boston, we provide all types of window installation services, plus a vinyl siding installation service. We continue to serve clients from our Pembroke, Woburn, and Shrewsbury locations while complying with social distancing and other CDC guidelines during the coronavirus pandemic. For information on installation, warranties, and financing, or free estimates on our window, door, and siding services, contact us today.