Expert: Dave Johnson - 7/29/2008

Question
QUESTION: Is 3/8 fan fold insulation  what should be used when doing a vinyl go over pine claps?

ANSWER: Hi Robin,
Sure, but 1/2" foil faced ridgid foam is a better insulator (although a bit more expensive)
And, if you do opt to use the foam, taping the seams is a good idea, too.
Good luck..

Dave

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Dave,Could you tell me what taping and seems are and do you need them with the fan fold? Do you know anything about olmpic siding co.? Anything about Monogram 46 siding?
Can you replace window and door trims, rake and fascia boaeds with vinyl when you do a residing of vinyl over the original pine clapboards or do you have to go over them with aluminum? Is vinyl siding more flamable than wood?

ANSWER: Robin
i usually use duct tape on the seams (between sheets of insulation)
or any other good quality wide tape.
Monogram 46, as I recall, is an upper grade of vinyl.
All those trims you mentioned are best done with aluminum.
Vinyl will melt as it burns and is much more toxic than wood fumes.
As far as flamability, vinyl will burn a bit sooner than wood.

Dave

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Why is it better to use aluminum on the trims? Won't aluminum scratch and dent? Do you have to tape the seams when you use fan fold? What do you mean  by vinyl will burn sooner than wood? Do you know anything about the Olympic siding co.? Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge!

Answer
Aluminum is much easier to work with when doing corners and other
places where bending is required. Vinyl expands/contracts more than aluminum.
you don't need to tape the seams, but it will help.
Vinyl has a lower burn temp. than wood.
I'm afraid I'm not up on Olympic siding.

Dave