When you live in Michigan, you know that keeping your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer can be a real struggle. Your energy bills might feel like they are constantly going up, even if you keep the thermostat at a normal level. If you are noticing drafts or high utility costs, it might be time for a home energy audit.
Choosing the right siding contractor southfield mi is one of the smartest ways to handle these energy problems. A modern professional doesn’t just look at how pretty your siding is; they look at how well your home holds onto the air you pay to heat and cool. In this guide, we will talk about how a southfield siding replacement can actually be an investment that pays you back in energy savings.
What is a Siding Energy Audit?
Most people think an energy audit is just about checking for leaks around windows and doors. However, a specialized siding expert looks at your home’s “envelope.” This is the outer shell of your house that stands between you and the Michigan weather.
When you hire a siding contractor southfield mi, they will check for hidden problems like:
- Thermal Bridging: This happens when heat travels through the wood studs in your walls, skipping over the insulation entirely.
- Air Leaks: Small gaps where air escapes, often found where the siding meets the foundation or the roofline.
- Outdated R-Value: Older homes often have very low insulation ratings (R-value) in their walls compared to modern standards.
The Secret to Higher R-Value: Rigid Foam Insulation
In the past, siding was just a thin layer of wood or vinyl. Today, a high-quality southfield siding replacement involves adding a layer of rigid foam insulation directly underneath the new panels.
R-value is a way to measure how well a material resists heat flow. The higher the number, the better it works. Standard siding has almost no R-value on its own. However, when your contractor adds rigid foam, it creates a continuous blanket around your home. This is especially important for siding installation bloomfield hills and Southfield projects because it stops “thermal bridging.”
Think of it like this: your wall studs act as a bridge for heat to walk right out of your house. Rigid foam cuts that bridge, keeping the heat inside where it belongs.
Why You Must Have a High-Quality House Wrap
Before the new siding goes on, your contractor should install a professional house wrap. Think of this as a windbreaker for your home. It protects your house from two things: wind and water.
A good house wrap is “breathable.” It blocks liquid water from getting into your wooden frame (which prevents rot), but it allows tiny amounts of water vapor to escape from the inside. If moisture gets trapped behind your siding, it can lead to mold. A professional siding contractor southfield mi knows exactly how to seal the seams of the house wrap with special tape to make sure your home is airtight but healthy.
The Role of Modern Siding Materials
While the insulation underneath does the heavy lifting for your energy bills, the material you choose for your siding installation bloomfield hills matters too.
- Insulated Vinyl: This is siding that has the foam already glued to the back of the panels. It’s very durable and great for soundproofing.
- Fiber Cement: This material is incredibly tough and fire-resistant. When paired with exterior foam boards, it creates one of the most energy-efficient walls possible.
By choosing these modern materials during your southfield siding replacement, you aren’t just fixing your home’s look; you are preparing it for the next 30 years of Michigan weather.
At Prime Home Remod, we don’t just sell siding; we provide energy solutions. Founded by Josh Kroll, a third-generation builder, our company carries over 70 years of family expertise. We understand the specific challenges that Michigan homeowners face, from humid summers to freezing winters. When you work with us for your siding contractor southfield mi needs, we treat your home as if it were our own. We focus on high-quality materials, perfect installation, and ensuring your home’s energy audit leads to real savings. We are proud to serve Southfield, Bloomfield Hills, and the surrounding areas with honesty and craftsmanship.
Contact Prime Home Remod today to lower your energy bills: Visit our website to schedule your consultation!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What exactly is thermal bridging?
Thermal bridging occurs when heat bypasses your wall insulation by traveling through the solid wooden studs of your home’s frame. Adding rigid foam insulation outside the studs acts as a barrier that stops this heat loss.
Does a house wrap help with my energy bills?
Yes! While its main job is to stop water, a properly sealed house wrap also stops “air infiltration.” This means it prevents cold wind from blowing through small cracks into your living space.
Is a southfield siding replacement worth the cost?
Most homeowners see a return on their investment through lower monthly utility bills and an increase in their home’s resale value. In 2026, energy efficiency is one of the top things buyers look for in a home.
Can I add insulation to my existing siding?
Usually, no. To properly add rigid foam and house wrap, the old siding must be removed. This allows the siding contractor southfield mi to inspect the wood underneath for any rot or damage before sealing it up.
How much does the R-value improve with new siding?
Standard siding has an R-value of about 0.6. Adding an inch of rigid foam can boost that by R-5 or more. This might sound like a small number, but it can reduce your heat loss through walls by up to 20%!
