Insulated siding can improve a home’s energy efficiency. Most exterior walls have insulation in between the wall studs, but allow significant energy loss through the studs themselves. Wall studs, both wood and metal, are poor insulators ? when they come in contact with the exterior cladding, they allow heat to pass through them (which is called a thermal bridge). Since these studs represent up to 25% of the wall surface of an average home, it’s like having an entire exterior wall with no insulation at all.
Insulated siding improves energy efficiency by reducing thermal bridging ? like a blanket, it is continuous insulation over the studs, which helps homes stay cool in summer and warm in winter.
This great video from the Vinyl Siding Institute helps easily explain thermal bridging and how insulated siding helps improve energy efficiency.
While many homeowners are familiar with ENERGY STAR? qualified appliances and energy efficient windows, they may be surprised to learn that insulated siding can also improve a home’s energy performance. Insulated siding is now accepted as home insulation in various energy efficiency programs ? including the checklist of building products or methodologies that can help meet the requirements to qualify under ENERGY STAR Qualified Homes. You can learn more at?www.insulatedsiding.info
