In today’s culture, “going green” is all the rage in nearly every industry. From people switching to digital newspapers to choosing sustainably made clothes to selecting home renovation products that have the lowest possible carbon footprint, energy efficiency seems to be on everyone’s mind! If you are planning to do an exterior renovation soon, you might be wondering if there are any particularly energy-efficient siding options on the market today. As you read this guide, you will learn more about various sorts of popular siding and how energy efficient they really are.
What scale is used to measure energy efficiency?
Even if you’re familiar with certain types of green initiatives, you might not understand how energy efficiency is actually measured. In regard to most construction materials, the “R-value” scale is used. You’ve probably seen this before while browsing or researching insulation materials. The higher the R-value, the more effective a given substance is at preventing heat transfer. Different regions have different building codes, but the walls of newly constructed buildings are generally required to have a minimum R-value of 13. Siding typically registers an R-value of 1 or lower.
Wood shingles have an R-value of .87, steel and vinyl siding boards have an R-value of .61, stucco and brick have an R-value of .44, and fiber cement panels have an R-value of .37. Depending on where in North Carolina or South Carolina you reside, you might want to focus more on air circulation or more on protection from wind and snow when you choose an exterior covering for your home. In humid, coastal regions, for instance, the porous nature of stucco is nice, but in the mountains, wood or vinyl tends to be the best choice.
Is insulated siding worth the money?
One option that wasn’t detailed in the previous section is insulated siding. This sort of siding features a foam layer that typically fits between the studs. This can dramatically improve energy efficiency ratings, with some insulated siding offering an R-value of 4. Some studies have shown that a one-time investment in insulated siding could save homeowners about 20% on their utility bills year-round. No matter where you live in the Carolinas, this is great news!
There are several types of insulated siding, including aluminum and fiber cement, but vinyl is by far the most common choice. In addition to being an energy-efficient alternative to conventional siding options, insulated siding offers extra protection against high winds and severe storms. This could save you money on repairs in the long run.
If you are interested in learning more about insulated siding, give the Hatch Homes crew a call at your earliest convenience. Our skilled team looks forward to answering any questions you may have about having this type of siding installed on your Carolina home. We can even help you figure out what sort of siding is the best choice for the climate in your region. Never hesitate to contact our office! We look forward to handling your upcoming remodeling project.