Vinyl Siding vs. Insulated Vinyl Siding

A close up of a wall

If you’re thinking about upgrading your home’s exterior, you’ve probably come across two popular options: traditional vinyl siding and insulated vinyl siding. At Ferris Home Improvements, we know homeowners across Delaware, Maryland, and Pennsylvania are looking for siding that not only looks great but also improves energy efficiency and comfort. Understanding the differences between these two siding types can help you make the right call for your home—and your budget.

What Is Traditional Vinyl Siding?

Vinyl siding for homes has been a go-to option for decades—and for good reason. It’s durable, weather-resistant, and easy to clean. If you want to refresh your home’s appearance without spending more, vinyl siding is a solid choice.

However, traditional vinyl doesn’t offer much insulation. It covers your home, but it doesn’t do much to keep the heat in during winter or out during summer. That means you could be losing energy—and money—through your walls.

What Is Insulated Vinyl Siding?

Insulated vinyl siding takes everything homeowners love about vinyl and adds a built-in layer of foam insulation. This extra layer helps reduce heat loss, saves energy, and even makes your home quieter.

Here are some key benefits of insulated vinyl siding:

  • Better Energy Efficiency – Thanks to the added insulation, this siding helps maintain indoor temperatures year-round. That can mean lower energy bills and a more comfortable home.
  • Stronger & More Durable – The foam backing adds rigidity, making the siding more resistant to dings, dents, and warping which leads to less siding repairs.
  • Quieter Inside – The insulation acts as a sound barrier, helping to block out street noise and other outside sounds.
  • Smoother Appearance – Insulated vinyl siding lays flatter against your home and creates a more polished, high-end look.
  • Long-Term Savings – While it costs more upfront, vinyl siding with insulation can pay off over time through reduced heating and cooling bills.

Which One Should You Choose?

If you’re on a tight budget or prepping your home for resale, standard vinyl siding might be enough. But if you’re looking to boost your home’s energy efficiency, reduce outside noise, and invest in long-term comfort, insulated siding for homes is absolutely worth considering.

James Hardie Siding: Best of Both Worlds

If you’re looking for siding that combines strength, energy efficiency, and great style, James Hardie Siding is the way to go. Here’s what makes it a standout choice:

  • Built to Handle Anything – Tough against extreme weather, pests, and even fire. Unlike vinyl siding, it won’t warp or crack over time, and it stays looking great for decades.
  • Energy-Smart – It helps regulate indoor temperatures, similar to insulated vinyl siding, so your home stays comfortable while lowering energy bills.
  • Looks That Impress – With plenty of colors and styles to choose from, it’s easy to find the perfect match for your home. It adds a modern, high-end touch to any design.

Why Homeowners Trust Ferris Home Improvements

At Ferris Home Improvements, we’ve been helping families in Delaware, Maryland, and Pennsylvania improve their homes for over 40 years. Here’s what makes us different:

  • Family-Owned and Operated – We care about our customers like they’re our neighbors—because they are.
  • The Ferris Way – Our consultative, no-pressure process ensures you receive honest advice and fully customized solutions—not just a bottom-line quote.
  • One-Stop-Shop – From small repairs and roofing to full interior and exterior overhauls, we’re your complete home improvement partner.
  • Refer-a-Friend Program – Love your experience? Send a friend our way and get rewarded.
  • We Handle Small Jobs, Too – From full exterior upgrades to minor repairs, no job is too big or too small.

Final Take

If you’re in Delaware, Maryland, or Pennsylvania and seeking affordable durability, traditional vinyl siding is a worthwhile choice. But if you prioritize energy savings, added comfort, noise reduction, and long-term curb appeal, insulated vinyl siding offers significant advantages that pay off in comfort and resale value.

At Ferris Home Improvements, we’re ready to guide you through both options and craft a solution that fits your needs and budget. Contact us today for a free consultation.