Insulation Used Under Vinyl Siding

Insulated vinyl siding has an outer skin made of polyvinyl chloride or pvc just like standard vinyl siding.

Insulation used under vinyl siding.

By glenn hooper june 2 2015. 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. 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. There are insulated rigid foam products that will increase the insulation factor but you ll pay much more for r 5 to r 7.

This is typically used to go over the existing siding in order to create an even surface to keep the siding plum during installation. This is most common with vinyl siding. As many things in building science go you my dear reader have to learn something. The insulation is glued in place for a permanent connection.

Behind this skin is a layer of expanded polystyrene eps that is form fitted to the stepped siding profile of the vinyl. 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. Why insulation under the siding is important. This detail is used with both new construction and also with renovation work.

The foam board is nailed in place with washer head nails should be taped at the seams to prevent air movement. Once the plywood is installed it s then time to install the siding over the top you can choose to use either vinyl or aluminum siding depending on the age style and look of your building. Most homes in the united states are built with traditional wood frame construction with studs every 16 on center. To be completely efficient this insulation type has to mold perfectly with the inside of your home siding.

1 2 polystyrine foam board insulation. Below are some of the design details along with the benefits. The siding and insulation offer a well insulated home. Generally referred to as rigid foam insulation this type of foam insulation is.

So if you re comparing proposals to install new vinyl siding on your home please be aware of this important fact. Because of this breathability installing insulated vinyl siding does not require costly venting as do some other insulation materials. I thought i should show why continuous foam under the exterior siding is so important. It also serves as an air barrier.

An honest professional vinyl siding contractor will tell you exactly what you re getting. In fact you can check if it is a correct insulation installation by pressing on the house siding. I get asked if this or that in the in the cavity works as well as foam under the siding.