Consumers purchase fixer-uppers in fearless Hollywood fashion, expecting to create the ideal home in a whirlwind of DIY projects (like they do on HGTV). The glamour fades when unexpected large ticket items like siding are discovered as faulty and in need of replacement. Masonite siding is one of the big culprits when it comes to faulty siding. Dependable Home Services can help if your home currently has Masonite siding. Reach out for a free quote and consultation.
What is Masonite siding?
Masonite siding, also known as hardboard siding, is a budget-friendly siding choice that was popularized in the 1980s and early 1990s. It’s made of wood fibers that are held together with glue or resin through a heat and compression process. Its advantages made it a siding product people flocked to for its initial strength and low cost. Masonite siding is even more budget-friendly than vinyl siding, making it a popular choice to many.
Problems arose with Masonite siding after it was exposed to the elements during its lifetime on home exteriors. A lawsuit against the largest manufacturers of Masonite siding reimbursed consumers for damages caused by the product between 1980 and 1998. Following the lawsuit, manufacturers stopped making Masonite siding.
Does your home have Masonite siding?
Here are some common problems for homeowners with Masonite siding:
1. Deterioration
Any holes, cracks, or missing pieces of Masonite siding material display that there are problems with the siding, and it likely needs to be replaced.
2. Buckling
When Masonite siding absorbs water, it expands and causes abnormal bulges or curves in the Masonite. Ideally the siding should be flat and stiff, so if it starts to buckle, contact a contractor for a free consultation.
3. Discoloration
When siding starts to decompose or rot, its color changes. Keep an eye out for even minor color changes and get an inspection if you suspect problems.
4. Blistering
When layers of wood particles separate, blisters can form in Masonite siding. If the siding gets soft and starts blistering, it’s time to replace it.
5. Insect infestation
Insects love the wood that makes up Masonite siding. Termites can destroy not only the siding but also your home’s structure beneath the siding. Inspect regularly for insects and exterminate your home promptly if they show up.
6. Faulty caulking
The spaces between Masonite siding and all along its edges should be sealed always. Faulty caulking can lead to moisture damage and speed up the need for siding replacement. Inspect your caulking regularly and replace it as needed to extend the life of your Masonite siding.
If it was installed well and maintained over the years, Masonite may not have problems for several years. But eventually, the weather will impact Masonite siding and problems will show up. If the problems are not resolved in a timely fashion, they could get expensive and require the costly hassle that major remodeling projects can create in a home.
Here are some common problems homeowners find with Masonite siding. Take a look at these, and you’ll understand why Masonite siding installation is a thing of the past.
Moisture damage
Masonite siding as well as your home’s structure can be negatively impacted due to moisture damage. Since Masonite is made up of wood fibers, it is easily susceptible to moisture retention and eventually damage. Wood rot can spread rapidly and cause costly remodeling needs to your siding and your home. When siding buckles, softens, rots or blisters, it needs to be replaced.
Insect infestation
Wood attracts insects, and particularly termites. The wood fibers that make up Masonite siding can act like magnets to insects and cause overwhelming and costly infestation.
Tips for homeowners who have Masonite siding
Regular maintenance—If your Masonite siding isn’t damaged—perform regular maintenance to keep problems at bay.
Moisture damage
In the early stages of moisture damage, it can be slowed down with caulk and paint. This is part of the ongoing maintenance needed if you have Masonite siding. Monitor the siding for further deterioration.
Needed repairs
A trustworthy contractor can sometimes repair problems with Masonite siding by matching the style and look of your siding with a more contemporary product.
Coating upkeep
Masonite siding should be painted to avoid moisture damage, fungus and other damages from the weather. Verify the coating is always intact.
Regular inspections
Inspect your Masonite siding regularly and when you suspect a problem, contact a good contractor promptly to get a free estimate of their assessment of your siding’s condition and their recommendations for its remedy.
How to know if you have Masonite siding
To discover if you have Masonite siding or not, look in your attic or garage. Find the tar paper from the back of your siding and check for the manufacturer’s name or the American Hardboard Association code. Look online for the type of material that makes up the siding.
What is the most popular replacement siding product in America, and why?
James Hardie® is the most popular replacement siding product in North America due to its exceptional curb appeal, its durable makeup, long lasting color, climate specific engineering, and outstanding warranty. This strong fiber cement siding has been used on over 8 million homes in North America alone. More than 18 billion square-feet of this amazing siding has been installed.
If you want to avoid the hassles involved with Masonite siding and its deterioration, get James Hardie® siding and enjoy durable, beautiful, low maintenance, high performance siding for years to come.
Ready to protect your biggest investment?
Protect your home—your biggest investment—and increase your home value with new James Hardie siding. Give Dependable Home Services a call to schedule a free consultation, and in the meantime—check out what others are saying about us. We’ve helped hundreds of homeowners transform their home into a place they enjoy while increasing its value.
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