Insulation Under 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.

Insulation under siding. Generally referred to as rigid foam insulation this type of foam insulation is. 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 thought i should show why continuous foam under the exterior siding is so important. Why insulation under the siding is important.

The insulation itself can be up to 1 25 inch thick at its thickest point but due to the stepped profile much of the insulation is thinner. As many things in building science go you my dear reader have to learn something. 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. Most homes in the united states are built with traditional wood frame construction with studs every 16 on center.

Installation of this insulation type under fiber cement siding can create an incredible 600 more energy efficient home. We will start with hot climates. Below are some of the design details along with the benefits. The bottom edge of the insulation is shaped to receive the top edge of the siding course below so the pieces overlap.

Eps is used under roofing over foundation walls and beneath 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. Insulated vinyl siding is installed with nails as with standard vinyl. 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.

This detail is used with both new construction and also with renovation work. By glenn hooper june 2 2015. Before installing vinyl siding over existing wood siding or wall sheathing the wood must be dry and in good condition. It also serves as an air barrier.

Installing insulation over moisture or existing rot can create larger headaches later. I get asked if this or that in the in the cavity works as well as foam under the siding. It provides an r value of 4 per inch of thickness and is the cheapest type of foam board insulation.