Problems Insulated Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding expands and contracts as the outside temperature changes.

Problems insulated vinyl siding. A fresh look i ve been getting a lot of questions about insulated vinyl siding the vinyl siding with form fitted. How insulated vinyl siding is made. While the solution began with vinyl siding the development of insulated vinyl siding is being heralded as the ultimate solution. Two studies indicate some benefits to using insulated vinyl siding but more data is needed to win over this skeptic.

A waterproof barrier is installed over the sheathing and under the siding which keeps out moisture. Insulated vinyl siding is standard vinyl siding with a layer of expanded polystyrene eps foam insulation adhered to it. Insulated vinyl vinyl siding is designed to handle a great deal of wear and tear. Behind this skin is a layer of expanded polystyrene eps that is form fitted to the stepped siding profile of the vinyl.

The foam insulation greatly increases the r value up to 5 and adds to the durability of the product. Moisture problems with vinyl siding vinyl siding is designed to be flexible which allows for some expansion and contraction. This resulted in a demand for siding that was lower maintenance yet still durable and most of all cost effective. 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.

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. The insulation is glued in place for a permanent connection. Note however that cold temperatures can cause it to become brittle and break. It is naturally the most expensive of alside vinyl siding being it is a 1 5 insulated panel.

Setting aside the overall environmental profile of the oft demonized pvc check our coverage in this month s ebn feature the pvc debate. Because of this it isn t sealed tight to keep out water. In the summer when temperatures are high vinyl expands. Looks like cedar in the right colors and with 3 different profiles to choose from most homeowners will find an option they like.

Because insulated vinyl siding contains a rigid foam core some people have thought the foam might absorb and mold moisture. 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. Not only does it resist the effects of water and sunlight but of direct physical trauma as well.

The additional cost of insulated vinyl siding is recouped over time in the form of lower energy bills.