At first look, it’s easy to assume that your siding installation plays a major role in optimizing the energy efficiency of your home. After all, it’s your siding along with your roof that serves as your primary protection against the elements. The truth is, it’s your housewrap and foam insulation that make up most of the bulk of your thermal envelope. Of course, this doesn’t mean your cladding plays no role in your improving your efficiency.
Here’s how your choice of siding impacts how your home consumes energy.
R-Values
It’s impossible to talk about energy efficiency without mentioning R-values. You don’t have to be a professional siding installer to understand this number. R-value is a performance standard used in measuring how well a material insulates. Higher R-values equal better insulation.
All things considered, wood shingles offer the highest R-values while brick and stone veneers are the poorest insulators.
Wood siding: 0.81 to 0.87
Aluminum, steel and vinyl siding: 0.61
Fiber cement siding: 0.37
Insulated Siding
Adding a foam component to the standard siding clapboards significantly increases its R-value. The best material for this purpose is vinyl, but metal and fiber cement options are also available. You’ll find no shortage of vinyl options offered by your siding company. Using thermally insulated cladding can reduce your energy bills by as much as 20%.
These products are also often rated highly resistant against storm, wind and hail damage. Additionally, they also offer incredible noise reduction capabilities.
Get high-performance siding products only from our professionals at Bradford Xteriors. We are your leading local provider of superior craftsmanship at fair prices. Give us a call at (614) 328-8188, or fill out our online contact form to schedule a no-obligation in-home consultation and get a free estimate on your new siding today. We serve homeowners in Upper Arlington, Columbus and Dublin, OH.