Exterior Insulation Under Siding

Why insulation under the siding is important.

Exterior insulation under siding.

The backside of the insulation is flat so the siding installs flush against the home s exterior wall sheathing. Foil faced foam board insulation is a great idea but is not a good choice for hot climates or cold climates as an exterior insulation product. How to install rigid foam under siding. Many houses built today have a double wall type of insulation with fiberglass batts fastened between the studs on the inside and rigid foam board over.

If the exterior wall sheathing is below the dew point temperature condensation will form on the sheathing. Continuous insulation under new siding has become a popular way to improve energy efficiency on an existing home because it addresses a problem known as thermal bridging. Most homes in the united states are built with traditional wood frame construction with studs every 16 on center. As many things in building science go you my dear reader have to learn something.

He removed the old aluminum siding and starting putting up the new vinyl over what looks like tar paper and 2 layers of shingle. It also serves as an air barrier. The insulation is glued in place for a permanent connection. Generally referred to as rigid foam insulation this type of foam insulation is.

I thought i should show why continuous foam under the exterior siding is so important. A continuous layer of insulating sheathing applied to the exterior surface of a wall will minimize condensation and moisture levels. Condensation and elevated moisture levels cause rot mold and mildew. The insulation itself can be up to 1 25 inch thick at its thickest point but due to the stepped profile much of the insulation is thinner.

By glenn hooper june 2 2015. Hot climates already have a lot of heat and vinyl siding tends to expand and contract with temperature changes up to 1 if the siding is made of recycled vinyl material. We will be residing the cabin this summer and are wondering if adding 1 inch of xps rigid insulation on the exterior walls and walk out will cause any moisture issues. The lower level has 2 in of xps rigid foam insulation on the interior walls.

The upper part of the cabin has standard batting and no form of exterior insulation under the siding. Installing foam insulation under vinyl siding is a wise choice for homeowners who are seeking to protect their homes against moisture infiltration as well as improve energy efficiency.