Two studies indicate some benefits to using insulated vinyl siding but more data is needed to win over this skeptic.
Problems insulated vinyl siding.
However a one year study completed by the senior energy engineer at the home innovations research labs hirl proved that insulated vinyl siding does not create moisture problem.
It is naturally the most expensive of alside vinyl siding being it is a 1 5 insulated panel.
The problem is that wood siding is high maintenance and expensive.
Unfortunately many people install it with a foam backing which then ends up trapping the moisture behind the siding where it has no place to go.
The additional cost of insulated vinyl siding is recouped over time in the form of lower energy bills.
How insulated vinyl siding is made.
Insulated vinyl siding is standard vinyl siding with a layer of expanded polystyrene eps foam insulation adhered to it.
Not only does it resist the effects of water and sunlight but of direct physical trauma as well.
Setting aside the overall environmental profile of the oft demonized pvc check our coverage in this month s ebn feature the pvc debate.
Note however that cold temperatures can cause it to become brittle and break.
Looks like cedar in the right colors and with 3 different profiles to choose from most homeowners will find an option they like.
Insulated vinyl siding has an outer skin made of polyvinyl chloride or pvc just like standard vinyl siding.
A waterproof barrier is installed over the sheathing and under the siding which keeps out moisture.
Behind this skin is a layer of expanded polystyrene eps that is form fitted to the stepped siding profile of the vinyl.
Because insulated vinyl siding contains a rigid foam core some people have thought the foam might absorb and mold moisture.
While the solution began with vinyl siding the development of insulated vinyl siding is being heralded as the ultimate solution.
Insulated vinyl vinyl siding is designed to handle a great deal of wear and tear.
This resulted in a demand for siding that was lower maintenance yet still durable and most of all cost effective.
Moisture problems vinyl siding is itself water resistant and when it s installed without backing it can act as a natural rainscreen allowing water to drain out from behind it.
Vinyl siding warps and buckles warping and buckling are both problems associated with vinyl siding these issues only occur when the siding is not installed correctly.
The insulation is glued in place for a permanent connection.
In the summer when temperatures are high vinyl expands.
Moisture problems with vinyl siding vinyl siding is designed to be flexible which allows for some expansion and contraction.
Because of this it isn t sealed tight to keep out water.
A fresh look i ve been getting a lot of questions about insulated vinyl siding the vinyl siding with form fitted.