Installing new siding is a great aesthetic choice for your home, improving resale value and curb appeal. But, can it also affect how much energy your home uses in a significant way? New siding doesn’t necessarily pay for itself in terms of reduced energy costs, but it can make a dent.
Also, when a homeowner replaces siding, it is the best possible time to improve the wall insulation R-value of the entire home, which is where you really get the biggest energy bang for your siding dollar. New siding combined with good exterior insulation will drastically reduce your home’s energy bills.
How does siding plus insulation equal energy savings?
Insulation blocked the heat transfer between the exterior and interior of your home and the siding protects the insulation from the elements, allowing the insulation to last a long time and perform well.
Siding also reduces the heat load on your home during the summer by reflecting the sun’s rays. This depends on the color of your siding, but many of the popular lighter colors perform this very well. Siding and insulation combine well to keep the inside of your home at a comfortable temperature so your heating and cooling run less often.
What is the best type of siding to help save energy?
The best type of siding for insulation purposes is either stucco or vinyl. Both of these types have a foam backing that makes them energy efficient and solid. Stucco siding has advanced over years, now coming in a material that keeps warm air inside in the winter and cool air inside in the summer. Vinyl siding is the best overall choice for energy purposes, not to mention other benefits like the ease of installation and zero maintenance.
What is the worst type of siding, energy-wise?
The worst type of siding would be fiber cement, stone or aluminum siding. These are the cheaper forms of siding and you tend to get what you pay for. They don’t hold insulation well and they fail to protect your home from the elements. They are also harder to maintain.
Siding has a dramatic impact on the look of your home, but it can also dramatically impact your monthly energy costs if you choose the right material and combine it with the right insulation. Vinyl siding is the top pick for cost, aesthetics, energy efficiency, and the virtual maintenance-free nature. If you are looking to improve your home’s look or energy bills this spring, look no further than the Pros at Pro Home Improvement. Give us a call today at 888-776-1998 to set up an appointment, or request an estimate.