A Closer Look at CertainTeed CERTAplank™ Siding: Style Meets Strength and Efficiency
- Staff
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
If you're considering upgrading your home’s exterior, vinyl siding remains one of the most cost-effective and low-maintenance options available. But not all vinyl siding is created equal. One product that stands out in both durability and performance is CertainTeed's CERTAplank™ siding. This innovative reinforced vinyl siding combines curb appeal with energy efficiency and impact resistance—making it a smart choice for homeowners looking for long-term value.
What is CERTAplank™ Siding?
CERTAplank™ is a vinyl siding system manufactured by CertainTeed that is laminated with a rigid foam backer for added strength and insulation. It’s designed to mimic the look of wide, horizontal clapboard while delivering better performance than standard hollow-back vinyl siding.
This product is part of CertainTeed's family of insulated siding options, but it introduces a new level of rigidity and installation flexibility. It installs like traditional vinyl siding but performs more like a composite or fiber cement product when it comes to impact resistance and maintaining straight, clean lines.
Sizes and profile details
CERTAplank™ siding comes in a Single 7-inch profile, which means each course of siding measures 7 inches tall. This wide profile provides a modern, clean look, often preferred in updated or higher-end residential architecture. The planks come in standard 12-foot lengths, making them easy to install with fewer seams than narrower siding panels.
Color options
CertainTeed offers CERTAplank™ in 15 colors, including a mix of traditional neutrals and deeper, more contemporary shades. These include classic choices like Colonial White, Savannah Wicker, and Charcoal Gray, as well as richer hues like Midnight Blue and Sable Brown.
Because the colors are engineered with CertainTeed's proprietary PermaColor™ fade-resistant technology, they resist sun damage and maintain their appearance longer than many competitive products.
Foam backer thickness and R-value
CERTAplank™ includes a factory-laminated expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam backer with a density of approximately 2 lbs/ft³. The foam backing measures roughly 3/4 inches thick, contributing to both the strength of the siding and its insulation value.
The total R-value of the siding panel, including the foam backing, is approximately R-2.0. While that may not seem like a huge number compared to interior wall insulation, it can make a noticeable difference when used across the entire exterior of a home, particularly in reducing thermal bridging through wall studs.
Benefits of CERTAplank™ Siding
1. Greater rigidity and straighter lines:
The laminated foam backer gives each panel significantly more stiffness than traditional vinyl siding. This helps prevent waviness, especially on older or less-than-perfect wall surfaces. The result is a cleaner, more high-end look once installed.
2. Dent and puncture resistance:
The added thickness and density of the foam layer, combined with the reinforced vinyl exterior, makes CERTAplank™ more resistant to dents from hail, sports equipment, or the occasional bump from a ladder or trash can.
3. Improved energy efficiency:
While CERTAplank™ won’t replace traditional wall insulation, its R-2.0 value does offer a layer of thermal resistance. It can help maintain indoor comfort, particularly in the winter and summer months, and may slightly lower heating and cooling costs over time.
4. Noise reduction:
The foam backing can also help dampen exterior noise. This may be an added benefit if you live on a busy street or in a densely built neighborhood.
5. Moisture management and vapor permeability:
Unlike some foam boards that can trap moisture, the EPS backer on CERTAplank™ is designed to allow moisture vapor to escape, reducing the risk of trapped condensation and mold behind the siding.
How does the cost compare to standard vinyl siding?
CERTAplank™ siding is more expensive than standard hollow-back vinyl siding. Here's a rough cost comparison:
Standard vinyl siding replacement:
Typically runs between $6.00–$9.00 per square foot installed, depending on labor, tear-off, and regional rates.
CERTAplank™ siding installation:
Generally falls in the range of $10.00–$14.00 per square foot installed.
This means a full siding replacement for a 2,000-square-foot home might cost around $12,000–$18,000 with standard vinyl, while CERTAplank™ would come in closer to $20,000–$28,000 depending on specifics like trim, accessories, and labor costs.
While CERTAplank™ carries a higher upfront cost, the benefits in appearance, strength, and thermal performance may justify the investment—especially if you're planning to stay in your home for many years or are aiming to boost its long-term value.
Final thoughts
CertainTeed’s CERTAplank™ offers a modern, durable, and energy-conscious alternative to standard vinyl siding. It bridges the gap between affordability and performance, providing a visually appealing exterior with better thermal and impact resistance. If you're ready to upgrade your home's siding and want a product that looks great and lasts, CERTAplank™ is definitely worth considering.
If you're in the market for new siding and live within our service area, call us now at (877) 846-9566 to schedule your free estimate or inspection, or fill out the form below to get started. Or schedule your estimate/inspection online.
