Wood sidings may consist of shingles, shakes, plywood, panels, boards (applied vertically and horizontally) and hardboard. Generally, the siding is available in cedar, firs, spruce, redwood, hemlock, pines and other woods. However, wood siding is prone to water damage and wood destroying insects, so where the wood is in close or direct contact with the soil a wood siding inspection is essential. Also, areas where vegetation overgrew are especially susceptible to deterioration, molds and mildew. Probe suspected areas for infestation and deterioration using a screwdriver.
During a wood siding inspection, check the wood for peeling or blistering paint, warped wood siding, split or cracked shingles, dark stains, delaminated plywood, mildew or buckled boards. Such problems typically indicate water damage or deferred installation and maintenance. Water penetration may be cause by open seams or improperly sealed joints in the siding and trim, separations at the outside corners, missing or damaged caulk in these areas, loose and missing pieces or sections or rusty nails and holes.
While performing the wood siding inspection, you should also examine the eaves, fascias, soffits and other outside trims. Faulty guttering may cause water damage and deterioration in the soffits as well. Use an ice pick, screwdriver blade or pocketknife to probe suspicious areas.
Popular Types of Wood Sidings:
- clap board
Clap board is an overlapping wood material, with boards typically installed horizontally. Generally it is made of a good material, but it should still be painted and properly sealed. Older siding had a ¾ inch butt edge, but modern sidings may be 7/16 inch or as little as 5/16 inch. These modern sidings are prone to considerable cracking/splitting in two to six years.
- hardboard
This material has been used for a number of years, but it should be kept painted and sealed at all times. Hardboard material can take any form, from a basic type composition to the modern day pressed wood or particleboard sidings. However, if it is not properly maintained it deteriorates very quickly. Whether a cardboard variety, pressed board or particle board, hardboard should be probed in suspect areas to ensure the material is sound. In addition, all manufacturer installation details and clearances should be inspected for compliance.
- plywood
For some time now, plywood has been used as an exterior siding, through originally it was only used on the gable ends of the residence. In the early 1980s it became relatively common to use it on most or the entire house. The most common type of plywood sidings is T1-11, typically fir or cedar, 7/16 inch thick and with vertical grooves. To prevent delamination, all plywood used on the exterior should be painted or sealed. If the wall to be installed is taller than eight inches, the plywood will have a horizontal butt joint that needs protection. Use a “Z” flashing to protect the top edge of the lower sheet. In addition, both these edges should be painted before installing the sheets.
- tongue and groove siding
This type of siding is very similar to clapboard, but it is installed vertically and its tongue and groove design allows it to interlock. It should not be installed horizontally or on a 45 degree angle. For this type of wood siding inspection should include checking above sliding glass doors and windows that have draperies. This siding needs protection with a preservative stain or paint to avoid termite problems.
Wood Siding Inspection
Wood siding may be easier to repair than many other materials, however it requires more maintenance in general, and repainting or resealing must be done every few years. When not properly maintained, wood siding is susceptible to rot, which can cause structural issues if not addressed in due time. Moreover, wood siding is more susceptible to direct attack from wood destroying insects, but the use of treatments and preservatives can help prevent such issues.
A visual wood siding inspection includes reporting on its general condition, as well as on any defects found, including damage, cupping, racking, curling, splitting and other problems that could affect he performance and lifespan of the siding.
Common Issues Detected During a Wood Siding Inspection
Among the most common problems is improperly applied paint, which can cause blistering, peeling, cracking and fading. However, interior moisture passing through the wall can lift the paint, causing paint problems. Furthermore, in time chalking of the paint can occur, and it can gradually break down to the point that it will lift off as a powdery substance when touched. This is a clear indication that the siding should be repainted. Also, oil-based stain can deteriorate in time due to excess moisture, exposure to UV rays or physical damage.
In addition, vegetation that holds moisture or water up against the siding (vines, ivy or other) can damage the condition of the siding, eventually leading to water or moisture damage. Make sure that natural wood siding is installed over building paper or housewrap for an adequate protection from water intrusion. Then, depending on the type of siding being installed, the nails may be either exposed or hidden. Make sure the nails are corrosion-resistant and rust-proof.
Continue your inspection by checking for any signs or buckling or cracking, especially with hardboard siding. The boards/planks should be attached with enough room left for natural expansion and contraction of the wood, which occurs across the grain. Also, siding retains moisture, but if its moisture content is too high and external temperatures are right, rotting will ensue. A moisture meter is a very useful tool that will allow you to examine any suspicious conditions. There are several sources of moisture that can lead to rotting, so during your wood siding inspection also look for roof leaks, gutter leaks and openings or gaps in joints.
Great advice! I know I can forget to check the siding when doing that yearly spring cleaning. I’ll be sure to do it this year.