Enjoy More Effective Climate Control with Siding
Siding is often viewed merely as an aesthetic matter. Indeed, a home’s siding contributes greatly to its overall curb appeal. However, there is another “side” to siding, so to speak -- this external feature actually has interior implications, too, helping to protect one’s property from various threats and maintain a comfortable temperature. Let’s further explore how siding contributes to climate control, and which siding options yield the best results in this regard.
Benefits of Climate Controlled Siding
How Siding Relates to Climate Control
Climate control refers to the interconnected systems that allow a home’s temperature and humidity to be adjusted and maintained as desired. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) are key components of climate control, but without proper siding, these systems would be far less effective. A home’s siding is its first defense against the elements, such as precipitation, wind, and sunlight. As such, siding helps prevent these factors from influencing the home’s internal climate -- the sun’s rays are reflected away from the home, moisture is drawn away, and wind is forced around the property.
Siding is Only Part of the Climate Control Equation
It is worth noting that while siding plays a role in keeping a home dry and temperate, effective climate control requires more than siding alone. More specifically, proper insulation is crucial in keeping unwanted external forces from entering and reducing energy costs. For maximum insulation and energy efficiency, rigid foam with a high R-value (which measures thermal resistance), should be installed between foundation walls and a house wrap should be installed all along a home’s exterior prior to siding installation. The better insulated your home is, the more effective your siding will be at helping you maintain a steady indoor climate.
Which Type of Siding is Best for Enhancing Climate Control?
So, siding is only one factor among many that determine the effectiveness of one’s climate control. That said, certain siding materials (and colors) provide more protection and energy efficiency than others. Vinyl siding is effective at keeping homes dry and warm; fiber cement siding is resistant to UV rays, pests, rot, wind and more; and masonry (brick and stone) siding tends to hold up well against humidity and sunlight. Wood siding, unfortunately, tends to fare poorly in comparison and requires more maintenance than the previous options. Still, Anderson Painting contractors can install and repair this type of siding as well.
Vinyl, fiber cement, and masonry siding are strong choices for effective climate control, but they can be made even better -- insulated siding (also known as thermal siding) features a foam backing that closes any gaps between the siding and exterior surface. Best of all, vinyl and fiber cement siding come in insulated options, as does steel and aluminum siding.
As far as color goes, consider that lighter colors reflect sunlight while darker ones absorb it. So, if you want your home to stay cool, the lighter your siding is, the better. Regardless of the siding you choose, then, you might go for a lighter option or hire a Raleigh painting service to paint your siding a lighter shade.
Take Care of Your Siding
The type of siding you choose can have an impact on your climate control efforts. But if you fail to properly maintain your siding, the material will matter less and less. In other words, it’s not just about choosing the right siding -- it’s about taking care of it. At the very least, you should thoroughly clean your siding once a year. A professional Raleigh power washing provider like Anderson Painting can help you do so.
To learn more about us and all we do, call today at 919-610-1855 or email us at info@andersonpaintingnc.com!
