Vinyl Siding Installers and Proper Insulation Techniques: A Story of Innovation and Experience
In 1974, a former colleague I had worked with cooking lobsters asked me if I wanted a job working with him as vinyl siding installers. He was working for his uncle, who had been granted the exclusive franchise to sell Mastic brand vinyl siding in Omaha, Nebraska. At the time, Mastic vinyl siding was a significant improvement over the older products on the market.
The Evolution of Vinyl Siding
Before Mastic, vinyl siding was a brittle, almost fragile material that looked like aluminum siding that had been made out of vinyl. The old vinyl siding would break or get holes easily because it was so brittle. It had a design that didn’t allow you to remove the pieces once they were locked in place, which was great as long as the vinyl siding installers never had to remove or replace a panel.
Then came Mastic vinyl siding, with its patented T-Lock design. This new system was a game-changer. The material was much more pliable, allowing installers to lock and unlock the pieces, and they could slide back and forth without binding as the siding expanded and contracted with temperature changes. This flexibility was essential, as vinyl siding grows in hot weather and shrinks in cold weather.
Early Training and Best Practices for Siding Installation
In those early days, we received training directly from the factory on how to install Mastic vinyl siding. In Omaha, at the time, there were only about 8 crews of 2 or 3 people working as vinyl siding installers. As a result, we learned crucial techniques that many installers today are unaware of, such as the importance of “position nailing.”
Position nailing is the practice of attaching the siding loosely enough to allow it to move without being restricted, and placing two nails on the otter edges of two nailing slots at the end or the middle of the piece, holding the piece in place at that point, allowing expansion away from that point. This technique helps the siding expand and contract correctly. Installing vinyl siding is an art, and while some installers understand the technique, many do not. In fact, the instructor at Metro Tech at a later time, who taught siding installation, learned this method directly from me.
The Role of Insulation in Vinyl Siding
In 1974, we used fiberboard drop-in backing behind 8-inch vinyl siding. By 1976, manufacturers started producing 3/8-inch thick white bead board foam drop-in backing. This was a significant improvement but wasn’t marketed as “hail guard foam” back then. Prior to the foam era, an option was foil-faced paper for insulation.
My installation process at the time involved layering materials for maximum insulation. I would first install 1/4-inch fan-fold insulation with a foil face, followed by a 3/8-inch foam drop-in layer for added thermal protection.
As the years passed, we saw the introduction of more advanced materials, such as 3/4-inch, 2’ x 8’ tongue-and-groove Dow foam and 4’ x 8’ sheets of foam, which were foil-faced on both sides. These materials provided a high R-value and offered a stable, flat surface on which to install siding. This method eliminated the need for drop-in backing and created a well-insulated wall that allows the siding to slide back and forth freely, without making rubbing noises associated with contoured drop in backing.
The Return of Drop-In Foam Systems
Fast forward to 2001, and drop-in foam systems made a comeback. These systems, marketed as “hail guard foam,” were contoured to follow the shape of the siding. Even the corner posts featured foam inserts. However, after working with these systems for several years, I have found that drop-in foam can actually make vinyl siding more vulnerable to hail damage.
Concerns About Foam-Backed Vinyl Siding Systems
One issue I have with drop-in foam is the noise. When the long pieces of siding (up to 25’6” long) rub against the foam constantly, you can hear them scraping together. This can be especially bothersome, and it’s something many homeowners don’t realize until it becomes an issue.
Additionally, drop-in foam systems tend to have a lower overall R-value, which is a critical factor for energy efficiency. Modern systems often have foam glued to the back of the siding, but after years of use, I’ve noticed that the foam often loses its adhesion to the siding. This leads to sagging or detaching panels and requires costly repairs or replacements.
I’ve personally worked on several warranty claims for this type of glued on, foam-backed siding, and I’ve seen firsthand that after a number of years, the foam often detaches from the vinyl siding. This can result in an unsightly appearance and the need for expensive repairs.
Why Choose Experienced Vinyl Siding Installers?
When it comes to installing vinyl siding, quality matters. I’ve seen many homeowners pay more for these newer systems, only to find that the results are disappointing. If you’re looking for high-quality, long-lasting siding, I recommend working with experienced vinyl siding installers who understand the materials and installation techniques that produce the best results.
If you’re looking for the best materials and want a durable, well-insulated siding system for your home, we’re here to help. At Associated Siding and Remodeling of Omaha, we offer the expertise and experience you need to ensure your siding project is completed to the highest standards.
Contact Associated Siding and Remodeling Today! Call 402-680-5412
For expert siding installation and top-notch insulation solutions, give Associated Siding and Remodeling a call. We are dedicated to providing homeowners with the best products and services to enhance the energy efficiency, durability, and aesthetic of their homes.