Siding not only enhances a home’s curb appeal but also protects it from harsh weather and pests, increases its value and provides energy efficiency. Choosing the right siding is important to ensure it will perform well over time.
Engineered wood siding offers the classic, traditional look of natural wood with added elements that strengthen it, resist moisture and rot and reduce termite damage. It’s available in clapboards, trim and fascia/soffit panels. Visit Our Website to learn more.
Flashing is a barrier made from materials like aluminum, copper, or rubberized asphalt that prevents water infiltration around areas where roofs connect with walls. It channels moisture away from these junctions, preventing leaks and protecting siding from rot, mold, and long-term damage. Unlike roof flashing, which is visible, siding flashing is often hidden beneath the trim. Nonetheless, its proper installation is just as crucial to a building’s integrity and energy efficiency as any other component of the structure.
Leak protection is critical to the health of any building. Despite the prevalence of other moisture barriers, slow leaks through damaged or improperly installed wall flashing can quickly overcome them and permeate building materials, causing mildew and mold, wood rot, and saturating insulation. In addition, the dampness caused by leaks can also lead to changes in indoor humidity that can affect building occupant health and safety.
Insufficient or improperly installed flashing is a major contributor to water problems in walls, especially around windows and doors. While caulking can temporarily patch many leaks, the only true solution is to properly flash and seal these penetrations and joints in walls.
Most siding leaks are caused by inadequate flashing, so it is important to regularly check your home for signs of flashing damage, including sagging trim, loose or bubbling paint, and dark spots in the walls. When these signs occur, it is best to have them looked at by a professional as early detection can help prevent costly repairs in the future.
Furring Strips
Furring strips provide a sturdy surface for siding and other finishing materials to attach to. They also provide air space behind cladding, helping to prevent moisture damage within walls. They are especially important for Haddonfield homes upgrading to a rainscreen system.
Furrows, or grooves, in sheathing can create a surface for moisture to gather. The resulting condensation can cause wood rot, mold, and decay within walls. Furring strips eliminate this issue by creating a drainage plane that moisture can flow through and away from the structure.
Installing them at regular intervals will allow water to escape the walls faster, reducing the risk of moisture damage. It’s recommended that furring strips are installed every 16 inches along the wall. They should be placed vertically as well as horizontally to help create a good drainage plane.
There are several types of furring strips available for use on new construction and home renovation projects. Some are made from woods such as spruce or fir that are lightweight and easy to work with. Others are manufactured from materials such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), a durable and weather resistant plastic that resists rot, mildew, warping, and insect infestation.
The type of furring strip you choose will depend on your project needs. For example, if you’re replacing vinyl siding, you may need to use HDPE instead of wood to protect the integrity of your sheathing. Other options include a cor-a-vent SV-3, which is an open weave entangled net that functions like a traditional furring strip but is much more effective in protecting vinyl from moisture damage.
Other than preventing moisture damage, furring strips can also make your new vinyl siding easier to install and maintain. For example, if you have large pipes running through your walls, you can use the furring strips to allow for their location without impacting the cladding’s installation.
Fascia
Fascia boards sit directly above a home’s roof overhang and connect to the soffit underneath. They protect the edges of your roof from water damage and prevent rot. They also provide a finished look and add to the overall curb appeal of your home. Like soffits, fascia boards come in a wide variety of materials. Wood is a popular choice, but requires regular maintenance to avoid rotting. Vinyl, aluminum, and fiber cement are more durable options that can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Aside from protecting the edges of your roof, a fascia board’s integrity is vital to preserving your home’s structure and preventing structural damage. It redirects rainwater away from vulnerable areas, keeping it from soaking into eaves and rafters. In doing so, it can prevent rot and moisture issues, as well as make your house more energy efficient.
While a damaged fascia may seem minor at first, it can worsen over time, especially if left unattended. In turn, this can lead to problems like rotting and insect infestations. The good news is, when soffits and fascia are replaced with high-quality materials, it can last for years to come without requiring frequent repairs or replacements.
To keep your soffit and fascia in tip-top shape, it’s important to perform routine maintenance and promptly address any problems you notice. When you’re ready to upgrade your siding, don’t forget to replace your soffit and fascia as well! Our experienced team at TruLog Siding can help you select the best soffit and fascia materials to suit your needs. Contact us today to schedule a free estimate in Barrie, ON. We offer flexible financing options to fit your budget!
Profile
The profile of your home’s exterior can be a major factor in its overall aesthetic. It can also have a significant impact on its durability, maintenance needs and cost-effectiveness. A variety of siding materials and profiles are available to suit nearly any architectural style or aesthetic preference, from a classic vinyl clapboard to a contemporary metal panel option. Many of these products have advanced features that make them durable, low-maintenance and resistant to weather conditions that can lead to moisture infiltration and rot.
Durability is a key factor that influences the longevity of siding. In regions that experience severe weather conditions, high winds and heavy rains, a durable material will ensure that your home’s exterior stays protected from damage. Most modern siding options, such as fiber cement and LP SmartSide products from James Hardie, are durable enough to withstand the elements. However, this doesn’t mean that damage won’t occur. In most cases, damaged siding will appear as chipped paint or small indents.
Other factors that influence the longevity of siding include its ability to resist rot and pests and its resistance to UV exposure. Most modern siding is made from durable materials that are able to withstand these conditions and protect your home from moisture infiltration and rot, as well as pest intrusion.
Aside from durability, the profile of your siding can have a significant impact on its appearance. Some options are designed to accentuate architectural details and create a more refined look, while others provide a rustic charm that can complement the character of your home. For example, board and batten siding offers a unique, rustic look that works well on farmhouse-style homes. Its vertical lines enhance the visual height of your home, making it look taller and more stately.
Soffit
Although soffit isn’t something most homeowners think of when assessing the state of their home’s exterior, it’s a crucial part of any roof overhang. Soffits protect a home from damage by providing adequate attic ventilation, keeping pests out, and keeping moisture out. Moreover, the panels create an attractive transition from the roof to the wall and contribute to cohesive curb appeal.
Soffit panels are typically installed on the underside of a roof’s overhang where they cover the bottom of the rafters. They allow for proper attic ventilation, which reduces the risk of moisture damage to rafters, and promotes comfortable temperatures in the living space below. Additionally, soffits prevent rot and mold by preventing water from seeping into the attic.
When it comes to soffit maintenance, regular upkeep is important to avoid moisture damage and pest intrusion. Moisture infiltration from a damaged soffit can cause wood siding to warp or bow. It can also lead to the formation of mold, which is a sign of underlying moisture damage. Moreover, soffits that are clogged with leaves and debris can hinder attic ventilation.
A soffit can be vented or non-vented depending on your home’s needs and available attic space. Vented soffits are ideal for homes with wider eaves that require ample attic space to be ventilated. In contrast, non-vented soffits are best for narrow eaves and smaller attic spaces. LP SmartSide’s soffit and fascia are available in 16 versatile ExpertFinish colors to complement the look of your home’s siding and other trim options. They can also be easily matched to your shingle color selection to provide a seamless, coordinated appearance. Contact us to learn more about our soffit and fascia installation and maintenance services.