Is Foam Board Necessary Siding

One of the biggest questions homeowners have about house wrap is whether it can be installed together with foam insulation.

Is foam board necessary siding.

I thought i should show why continuous foam under the exterior siding is so important. Using exterior rigid foam board insulation is a great way to make a building more energy efficient quieter and more likely to prevent moisture infiltration problems. Insulated foam sheets are also used as an insulated sheathing underlayment for exterior siding. Bottom line is exterior foam insulation is a good investment.

In reality rigid foam board which sometimes comes in fanfold usually only has an insulating factor of r 1 and does not add any appreciable insulation effect to your home. And even though some manufacturers call it rigid foam insulation for the purpose of vinyl siding it basically has the same insulating value as a piece of plywood. The method works for both new construction and remodeling and doesn t affect siding and trim details very much. This eliminates thermal bridging which is the energy lost through wall studs.

It also serves as an air barrier. The panels provide a continuous energy efficient surface. Installing house wrap with rigid foam insulation. In a typical situation.

By glenn hooper june 2 2015. As many things in building science go you my dear reader have to learn something. The studs conduct more heat than the insulation between them. Considering how effective house wrap is and how simple it is to install behind vinyl it is a good idea to ensure your contractor includes it when siding your home.

I get asked if this or that in the in the cavity works as well as foam under the siding. Why insulation under the siding is important. 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. Almost any type of siding can be installed over the rigid foam cedar or redwood planks exterior plywood sheets cement fiber board or vinyl siding are common options.