If you’re looking to renovate your house’s siding, you may have
heard of insulated vinyl siding. It appears to be the same as
ordinary vinyl siding but with a foam insulation layer on the back.
This can warm up your house, reduce noise, and save you from
wasted energy. But is it worth paying an extra dime?
Let’s crunch the numbers in plain language so you can make
an informed decision about what’s best for your house in Calgary.
What Is Insulated Vinyl Siding?
Insulated vinyl siding is vinyl siding with foam insulation built
into the siding. The foam is fitted tightly behind the siding panels.
It provides an added layer of protection against heat loss, wind,
and noise. This makes the siding more durable and keeps your
house warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
Benefits of Insulated Vinyl Siding
There are some excellent reasons why so many Calgary homeowners
use insulated vinyl siding:
Better energy efficiency
The added insulation keeps your home warm in cold winters. That
means your furnace doesn’t have to work as hard, which helps
reduce your energy bills.
Tougher and more durable
The foam back stiffens and toughens the siding. This will resist
damage from hail, wind, and just general bumping around.
Quieter home
Insulated siding can also help filter out outside noise, making
your home quieter if you live close to traffic or a main road.
Cleaner look
Since it’s more rigid, insulated siding lies flatter against the wall.
This can make your home look cleaner and more refined.
What Are the Disadvantages?
Though there are many advantages, there are a couple of things
to be aware of before deciding on insulated siding:
Increased cost
Insulated vinyl siding is generally more expensive than standard
siding. However, the extra expense could pay dividends in the long
run in reduced energy costs.
More difficult to install
The thicker panels are a bit more trouble to install. It’s worth it to
call a professional siding contractor to do it correctly.
Not required on all homes
If your house already has decent insulation built into the walls,
the extra insulation from the siding might not contribute much.
Is It Suitable for Calgary Homes?
Yes, insulated vinyl siding is a good option in Calgary. Winters
are lengthy and cold here, so every bit of added insulation can
make a difference. If your house is older or you notice cold air
leaking close to your walls, insulated siding can be a good upgrade.
It can also improve your home’s appearance and resale value.
How Much Can You Save?
Though savings will differ, most homeowners show lower
heating costs following the installation of insulated siding.
Eventually, the savings in energy can offset the extra expense.
Maintenance costs may also be reduced because insulated siding
is more durable and longer-lasting.
Maintenance and Longevity
Insulated vinyl siding is easy to maintain, like standard vinyl.
It doesn’t need painting and is resistant to insects and rot. Simply
wash it a few times a year with mild soap and water to keep
it free from dirt.
The foam backing also makes the panels keep shape longer, so
you won’t notice as much cracking or warping in the future. With
proper maintenance, insulated siding can last for 30 years or more.
When Should You Consider It?
You should consider insulated siding if:
Your existing siding is damaged or worn, you’d like to lower your
heating bills, your house feels chilly in the winter, you’re close
to a busy street, and you’d like to enhance your home’s appearance and value.
If you answered yes to any of these, insulated vinyl siding may be a worthwhile
long-term investment.
Final Thought
Insulated vinyl siding is more expensive initially, but it can
provide true value in the long term, particularly in Calgary’s chilly
climate. It keeps your home warm, quiet, and beautiful. If you’re improving
your exterior, it’s certainly worth a look.
Call to Action
Considering insulated vinyl siding for your house?
Call Straight Path Construction today or go to our website to
book your free consultation. We can assist you in selecting the ideal
siding for your house and budget.
