How to Tell If Your Siding Is Energy Efficient

Is your home or business drafty, with wild swings in temperature? Maybe you’ve noticed the monthly energy bill creeping higher, even though you haven’t changed a thing. Old or poorly performing siding can leak money and comfort out of your walls, one chilly breeze at a time.

At POM Siding, we know insulation and siding aren’t just about looks—they’re your building’s first defense against wasted energy. Here’s how you can tell if your siding is pulling its weight, and what steps you can take for lasting savings.

Signs Siding Is Losing Energy 🏠

You don’t need a degree in architecture to spot siding that’s letting energy slip away. Telltale signs are often right in front of you:

• Drafts Along Walls or Windows: If you feel chilly spots or breezes inside, your siding (or the layers behind it) might be to blame.
• Uneven Room Temperatures: Some rooms stay cold, while others overheat? Patchy siding insulation can cause this.
• Rising Utility Bills: If your energy use hasn’t changed but bills are climbing, your siding’s thermal performance might be slipping.
• Visible Gaps or Warping: Cracks, warped panels, or loose trim let air and moisture in.
• Mold, Mildew, or Water Stains: Moisture seeping in through failed siding can lead to bigger problems.
• Outside Noise Is Louder: Good siding muffles street sounds. If noise seems louder, insulation may be lacking.

Sometimes, the signs are subtle—a faint musty smell, or condensation on the inside walls. Don’t ignore these small warnings. Over time, leaks and drafts can snowball into bigger repairs.

Testing Efficiency: Simple Checks and Pro Assessments 🔎

How do you know for sure if your siding is losing energy? Start with these practical steps:

DIY Checks

• Visual Inspection: Walk around your building. Look for cracked, warped, or missing panels—especially near corners, windows, and doors.
• Feel for Drafts: On a windy day, trace your hand along baseboards and window frames. Cool air means there’s a leak.
• Thermal Touch: Some people use an infrared thermometer to spot cold spots on interior walls, which often line up with siding issues.

When to Call a Pro

While DIY checks are a good start, nothing beats a professional siding inspection. Qualified pros at POM Siding use thermal cameras and moisture meters to spot hidden trouble. We can test for:

• Thermal Leaks: Gaps and “cold bridges” invisible to the naked eye.
• Insulation Gaps: Areas where insulation behind the siding is missing or compressed.
• Moisture Intrusion: Pinpointing damp spots that can lead to rot or mold.

A professional siding-inspection gives you a clear, honest view—plus a prioritized list of what needs attention.

Upgrade Options for Better Insulation 💡

If your siding is losing energy, you’re not stuck with the status quo. There are modern materials and smart upgrades that can dramatically improve insulation and comfort.

Siding Types That Save Energy

• Fiber Cement Siding: Dense and durable, it resists heat loss and stands up to harsh weather.
• Insulated Vinyl Siding: Built-in foam backing adds a layer of thermal protection.
• Wood Siding: When properly installed and maintained, wood is a natural insulator.
• Stucco Siding: With added insulation layers, it blocks heat transfer and drafts.
• Metal Siding: Modern metal options with insulated panels can outperform older styles.

Behind-the-Scenes Upgrades

• House Wraps: Modern water-resistant barriers stop drafts and moisture.
• Rigid Foam Insulation: Installed beneath siding, it fills gaps and eliminates cold spots.
• Seamless Flashing: Quality flashing around windows, doors, and corners prevents leaks.

Custom Solutions

Every building is unique! At POM Siding, we offer custom siding solutions tailored to your home or business’s age, style, and climate. Ask about our insulation-installation services for a lasting fix that fits your needs.

Maintenance for Lasting Savings 🧹

Upgrading is only part of the solution. Keeping your siding in top shape protects your investment and your comfort.

Yearly Siding Checklist

• Clean Siding Gently: Remove dirt, mold, and debris with a soft brush or hose.
• Inspect for Damage: Once a year, check for cracks, gaps, or warping—especially after storms.
• Seal and Caulk Joints: Fresh caulk around windows and trim keeps out moisture and air.
• Touch Up Paint: Peeling paint exposes siding to weather. Touch-up as needed to prevent rot.
• Clear Gutters: Clogged gutters spill water onto siding, speeding up wear and tear.

When to Repair or Replace

If damage is widespread, or your siding is over 20 years old, it may be time for a full siding-replacement. We can help you weigh the options.

Quick Safety Checklist

Before you climb ladders or handle siding repairs, remember:

• Wear gloves and eye protection.
• Watch for loose nails and sharp edges.
• Never work alone on tall ladders.
• For major repairs, call trained professionals.

Following these basic steps keeps you safe and prevents unintended damage.

DIY vs. Call a Pro: What Makes Sense?

Some routine maintenance—like gentle cleaning or caulking—is safe for most property owners. But more complex jobs, like insulation upgrades, storm damage repair, or removing old siding, are best left to professionals. Siding pros follow local building codes and safety guidelines set by groups like the International Code Council (ICC) and the U.S. Department of Energy.

What Our Pros Do on Arrival

When you book a siding inspection or repair, expect a thorough process:

• Walkaround and visual assessment
• Moisture and thermal imaging checks
• Inspection of soffit, fascia, and flashing
• Written summary with clear next steps

We’ll explain what we find—and show you the difference between repairs you need now, and upgrades you might plan for the future.

Costs, Time & Disruption: What to Expect

Simple repairs, like sealing a few gaps or replacing trim, can often be done in a day. Larger jobs, like full siding replacement or insulation installation, may take several days. We work to minimize disruption, keep your space safe, and leave everything tidy.

When It’s an Emergency

If you notice sudden drafts, water leaks, or visible holes after a storm, don’t wait. Emergency siding services can stop further damage quickly. Quick action protects both your comfort and your property’s structure.

FAQ: Common Questions about Siding and Energy Efficiency

Will new siding lower my energy bills?
Yes—especially if you add insulation or upgrade to high-performance materials.

Can I add insulation without replacing my siding?
In some cases, yes. Options like blown-in insulation or foam panels can help, but the best results often come with new siding.

How often should siding be inspected?
At least once a year, or after major storms.

What’s the most energy-efficient siding material?
Materials like insulated vinyl, fiber cement, and well-installed stucco are all strong choices. The best option depends on your climate and building style.

Seasonal Considerations: Siding and Weather

Extreme heat, freezing winters, and heavy rain all test your siding’s performance. Check for damage after each season changes. Consider upgrades if you live in an area with wild weather swings.

Common Mistakes That Waste Energy

• Ignoring small cracks or warped boards
• Skipping annual maintenance
• Using the wrong type of caulk or sealant
• Overlooking soffit and fascia repairs
• Forgetting to clean gutters

Small oversights add up over time. Stay ahead with regular care.

Siding for New Construction and Remodels

Building new, or planning a major remodel? Now’s the time to choose high-efficiency siding and insulation. Our team can guide you through material choices, color consultations, and custom solutions for lasting comfort.

Timeline & Disruption: Honest Expectations

Most energy efficiency upgrades can be completed in days—not weeks. We’ll outline the schedule upfront, keep the job site safe, and communicate throughout. Your daily routine matters to us.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Want a professional opinion on your siding’s energy performance? Or need help with soffit and fascia repair near you? Our team serves homes and businesses with honest advice and proven solutions. For high-value siding upgrades in your area, check out our siding services in Roseville.

Call POM Siding now — or reach us anytime at  888-870-1065 .