Wood Board Siding
Although wood siding requires more maintenance than other siding types, it continues to rank as a popular siding choice for homeowners throughout the US. It seems that those who are committed to having the natural beauty of wood for their homes are also committed to maintaining it. One of the most popular wood siding types is wood board siding, also known as clapboard siding or lap siding. With good maintenance, wood board siding can last about thirty years – that’s almost ten years longer than some manufactured siding types.
Wood board siding is commonly made from softwood lumber that has been milled into one of several patterns designed to interlock or overlap so that rain and snow flow right off the siding boards. Even if you hire a qualified installer or carpenter to install your wood siding, you should be familiar with some of the basics to wood board siding:
- Make sure that all edges are sealed with water repellent.
- A major problem associated with wood siding is termites. Hardwoods such as cedar and redwood are termite-resistant. You can also protect your wood from termites by applying preservatives.
Wood Board Siding Maintenance: The Key to Making It Last
Maintenance is the key to help your siding last as long as possible. Here are a few maintenance tips that will help you prevent any serious damage to your wood board siding:
- If your siding has been painted, you will need to repaint it every four to six years. Don’t delay a needed paint job on your siding as it could lead to damage such as the wood peeling.
- Stained siding should be restained every three to five years.
- General maintenance includes a thorough yearly power wash.
- Every spring and fall, head outside for a siding inspection. Simply make a visual check around your home for loose boards or any cracks. You should also keep an eye out for any mold or algae growth. If you think that you may have some loose boards, then you should consider getting the ladder out in order to make a closer inspection. Would you prefer a professional siding inspection? Find a siding contractor here to help you.
