Siding Installation: Effect on a Home’s Energy Efficiency

Siding Installation: Effect on a Home’s Energy Efficiency post thumbnail

When you think “home,” you think “safety and comfort,” right? So, it makes sense that every homeowner wants to build a comfy and energy-efficient space. However, when considering energy efficiency, their focus is usually on insulation, HVAC systems, or windows. What many do not know is that their roof siding is a significant component that helps run an energy-efficient home. But how does siding installation improve your home’s energy efficiency?

In this article, we will discuss how proper siding installation improves your home’s energy efficiency. You will also learn why picking the right siding is vital.

What is Siding on a Home?

Siding is a layer of extra material that conceals parts of the home that are exposed. It can be made of brick, wood, vinyl, metal, or any long-lasting material that can stand against harsh weather conditions and improve the home’s insulation.

The additional layer of protection is an effective way of protecting your home against the elements. In addition, some types of siding can enhance your home’s insulation and ability to retain heat while conserving the materials under it. In some cases, homeowners install it as a decorative piece as it is available in different materials and styles and is ideal for both conventional and contemporary homes.

Comprehending the Basics of Home Insulation

Understanding the basics of home insulation is like a treasure discovery. It will help you attain the level of coziness you desire for your home. Insulation is a key player in creating an energy-efficient home. It ensures you experience great comfort all year by locking out elements that could ruin your comfort.

An essential component of a home’s insulation is its siding. Aside from improving your home’s curb appeal, it is a barrier against heat gain or loss, helping to minimize your consumption of energy. However, it is essential to hire a skilled siding contractor for the proper installation of your siding. If it is not installed correctly, you won’t enjoy its benefits.

Top 8 Ways How Siding Improves Energy Efficiency

1. Reduction of Heat Gain and Loss

Reducing heat transfer is a major benefit siding offers. If your siding is outdated or the installation is done incorrectly, excessive heat will gain entry into your home during the summer. Excessive heat will increase your air conditioner’s workload to keep the room temperature at comfortable levels. The reverse is the case during winter, when heat quickly escapes your house, increasing your heating bills.

When a competent contractor installs your siding correctly, it will serve as an insulation layer that reduces heat gain and loss, especially if it is insulated. An insulated siding has a layer of foam that snugly fits against the house, reducing the transfer of heat through the space between walls.

2.  Enhanced Insulation Performance

As we mentioned earlier, an insulated siding will provide much better insulation than a regular one. Fiber cement siding or vinyl siding with fitted insulation can elevate your home’s thermal resistance, making it difficult for heat to penetrate or escape in summer and winter time, respectively. This, in turn, lowers your energy consumption and bills.

3. Prevention and Control of Moisture 

When water finds its way into a poorly installed side via openings or cracks, it can lead to wood rot, mold growth, and overall deterioration of the structure of your home. In addition to the money it would cost you trying to fix the damage, it will lower your home’s capability to remain cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

A well-installed siding has a weather-resistant or moisture barrier that prevents water from infiltrating it. It keeps your home dry and sturdy. This feature is essential for the secure energy efficiency of your home.

4. Energy-Conserving and Reflective Finishes

Contemporary siding materials have features like UV-reflective layers that are energy efficient. They help to reduce the amount of heat that gets into your home in the summer by reflecting sun rays instead of soaking them. Vinyl sidings with light hues or metal sidings are examples of sidings that can reduce cooling costs.

5. Reduction of Air Leakage 

Poor installation of your siding creates spaces and poorly sealed edges around doors and windows, causing air to escape out of or into your home. Such leaks lead to unstable temperatures in the house, increasing the workload of your cooling and heating systems. 

If a professional handles installation, they will ensure that your siding fits perfectly and is secure. They will also rule out any potential leaks occurring, reducing the amount of conditioned air you lose to your home’s exterior and making your home energy efficient.

6. Improved Durability and Efficiency

When you install premium-quality siding correctly, it will remain functional for decades with little maintenance. This implies you wouldn’t have to worry about consistently replacing your siding, as there would be no need for it.  

A good example is fiber cement siding, which is resistant to harsh weather conditions. It won’t crack or lose its ability to insulate your home for a very long time, keeping it secure and comfortable for years.

7. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Materials 

In today’s market, there are various siding options available to homeowners, including recyclable products and sustainable materials. These materials positively influence energy efficiency on a large scale. Choosing and adequately installing siding that is environmentally friendly will lower the impact of your home on the environment. Additionally, it helps you cut cost on energy bills and save a reasonable sum of money.   

8. Selecting a Suitable Siding for the Best Result 

Siding materials are energy efficient, but some are more energy efficient than others. This difference is because the materials have different compositions, making some siding better insulators than others. For example, an insulated vinyl siding will insulate your home better than a regular vinyl siding. Before choosing a siding for installation on your home, we recommend consulting an experienced contractor to guide you and help you select the most suitable material.

Conclusion

Energy-efficient siding is a wise investment in your home, not merely an option. It is essential for elevating your home’s comfort and energy efficiency. Investing in one will help you save money and the environment in the long run.

The manner of installation is a vital determinant of how energy-efficient your siding will be. To get maximum energy efficiency from siding for your home, you must ensure that your contractor installs it correctly. An adequately installed siding will keep your home properly insulated, free from moisture and air leaks, and provide you with the desired comfort.

However, before choosing a siding material, make sure you contact a skilled contractor to get familiar with your options and determine the one that best suits your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the various kinds of siding materials available for homeowners?

Different types of siding materials are on the market, including wood, metal, vinyl, and cement. Each of these available materials has pros and cons, which are left for individuals to weigh and see which one aligns with their needs or purchasing power.

Can installing siding help decrease noise transmission into my house?

Absolutely. When you install siding on your home, it helps to decrease the transmission of noise into your home. A siding is a layer that serves as a barrier to sound waves from penetrating your home.

How can I guarantee proper installation of siding?

The easiest way to ensure your installation is executed correctly is to hire a skilled contractor with years of experience and a good track record. That way, you will maximize your energy efficiency. 

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