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“Our house feels brand new — and so does our energy bill.”
Before, our old siding leaked air everywhere. The furnace and AC were constantly running. Since 1st Home replaced it with insulated siding, the difference is night and day. The house is quieter, more comfortable, and our bills are down. - James & Maria, Schaumburg
Challenge
James & Maria’s home had original 1990s aluminum siding. After decades of Midwest winters:
- Fading, chalking, and cracks made the home look worn out
- Drafts near windows and walls left the rooms uncomfortable
- High energy bills — HVAC system ran nonstop in summer and winter
- Water intrusion risk as seams pulled away from the house
They wanted a solution that looked better, but more importantly, cut their energy costs and improved comfort.
Solution
1. Full Tear-Off & Wrap
- Removed failing aluminum siding
- Installed a weather-resistant barrier + foam-backed insulated house wrap to reduce air leakage
2. Premium Insulated Vinyl Siding
- Installed insulated vinyl siding in a durable, fade-resistant finish
- Added trim details around windows and corners for a sharp, modern look
- Color selected: modern gray with white trim, boosting curb appeal
3. Energy & Comfort Benefits
- The insulated siding added R-value to the exterior walls, reducing heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer
- The wrap sealed drafts, creating a more comfortable interior
Project Specs
- Material: Insulated vinyl siding with fade-resistant coating
- House wrap: Weather-resistant barrier + foam insulation board
- Trim: Custom white PVC trim for windows, doors, and corners
- Warranty: Manufacturer’s fade and performance warranty + 1st Home install warranty
Before / After (What Changed)
- Before: Faded, chalking aluminum; gaps around windows; cold drafts; dated curb appeal
- After: Crisp, insulated vinyl siding; clean lines; better comfort; lower utility costs
Homeowner Benefits
- Energy savings: Utility bills dropped ~18% compared to the previous year
- Comfort: Fewer drafts, quieter interior, consistent room temperatures
- Curb appeal: Modern color and trim boosted home value and pride of ownership
- Low maintenance: No painting or scraping needed
What We Learned Together
- Insulated siding pays for itself. While the upfront cost is higher, reduced energy bills offset it over time.
- Air sealing matters as much as looks. Proper house wrap and sealing eliminated drafts that were driving HVAC costs.
- Comfort is priceless. Beyond savings, the homeowners noticed quieter rooms and a more stable indoor climate.
