Increase Your Cabin's Insulation Value by Installing New Vinyl Siding
Upgrading your summer cabin for year-round use? One of the first improvements you'll want to undertake is improving the insulation value. Installing new, insulation-backed vinyl siding over top of the existing siding might be one of your best options.
What Should I Do Before Installing New Vinyl Siding?
- Check to be sure there is no dead air space locked beneath the existing siding.
- If there are empty hollows around studs, fill them with insulations.
- Be sure the existing siding is sealed along all seams and openings.
- Ensure the bottom of the siding is completely closed off.
- Figure out if your basement is insulated at all, as you can take this opportunity to extend insulation to the foundation.
How Do I Install Vinyl Siding Over Existing Siding?
If you are undertaking the installation of your vinyl siding yourself, be sure to give consideration to your vapor barrier. Since it is likely that you are doubling the insulation, you will want to include a new vapor barrier. You can do this by applying a seamless, well-sealed polyethylene blanket on top of the existing siding.
Depending upon the type of insulation and vinyl siding you are installing, you may need to build a framework for the insulation. However, today many vinyl siding varieties are backed by a rigid insulation, which eliminates the need for insulation framing.
Do I Need Professional Guidance?
If at all possible, it's best to hire a contractor to install insulation and vinyl siding on your cabin. A professional vinyl siding installer will know exactly how to frame, seal and hang your new vinyl siding to ensure you get the best "R"-factor possible. Consulting a contractor for guidance, even if you are not inclined to have one complete the job, is highly advised, as qualified help will ensure that you get the best upgrade possible.
