Adding R Value with Exterior Insulation

This siding renovation features some unique details that helped make the installation process easier, as well as less expensive for the homeowner. And along with the gorgeous new vinyl siding from Mitten, it features a major upgrade in exterior insulation!

The homeowners wanted to add exterior insulation to their home. It’s 2x4 walls only left so much room in the cavities, and replace the original in-wall insulation would entail tearing up the interior walls to access them. So instead they opted for exterior insulation, and paired that with a window replacement project!

When we met with the homeowners we discussed products and options, and landed on a 1.625” Enerspan Exterior Insulation as the insulation of choice. At 1.625”, we could install the vinyl siding directly over top of the insulation (rather than installing strapping over the insulation first, which can be a significant added cost), maximizing the R value per dollar. And that R value was large! At 1.625”, Enerspan provides an R7.6 - a roughly 70% increase in R value on their walls.
As an added bonus, we install our exterior insulation in a continuous layer - so that insulation spans over the existing studs with minimal thermal breaks - much more efficient than the in-wall insulation.

Because the homeowners were planning on doing the windows and exterior insulation/siding at the same time, we were able to make a recommendation to their window contractor on how far to build out the jambs of the windows to accommodate the added depth of the exterior insulation. The window company actually followed our request (not a given!), and as such we were able to butt our insulation and siding directly into the jambs of the windows.
Because of this, we did not need to add an additional window trims/moisture detailing for an inset window, and the homeowners were able to save money in the process.

We removed vinyl siding and stucco before installing our insulation, and installing the new siding. Mitten Regatta Blue was selected as the main siding colour, with some wonderful accents in Frost for added depth and character.

Ready to chat with us about your exterior insulation and siding project? Reach out to us today!