Wood Siding and Trim

Wood siding and trim is a very popular exterior combination for homes across the US.  This is thanks to the abundance of timber in North America. See our post on How Many Trees to Build a Home. Cedar shingles, horizontal lap siding, textured plywood and even whole logs are types of wood siding. Cedar and redwood are the most rot and insect resistant of the woods making them perfect for exterior applications.

Cedar and redwood siding is simply gorgeous. It is exceptionally durable. If that were not enough, it is also an organic and renewable material. Cedar and redwood siding should last well over 100 years if properly maintained. Maintenance includes timely monitoring and painting. Protecting the siding and trim from sun and weather damage is key. Siding is the protective “skin” of your home. Neglecting maintenance will allow damage to accumulate and result in a shortened life.

Wood siding always comes with a few natural imperfections. These are normal and not considered defects. As a rule, painted trim boards should be knot free. Siding should be fastened with hot-dipped galvanized nails. Trim boards should be pre-primed on all sides before installation, including joint cuts. Horizontal window and door head trim should be fitted with Z flashing. Pre-drill nail holes in trim boards to both achieve uniform spacing and eliminate splitting. 

Wood siding and trim comes kiln-dried from the mill in order to reduce warping and shrinkage. Nevertheless, wood siding is organic and extreme temperature and humidity changes can cause the wood to expand or contract. This can cause cracks (mostly at painted joints) that may be necessary to correct. Cracks or open joints can allow water to enter and cause more swelling, staining and rot. Monitoring is the only way to catch these problems proactively. We recommend an inspection of the exterior at least annually and especially before any wet weather.  If any joint openings or cracks are found they should be immediately caulked and repaired.

Use a good acrylic caulking and touch-up paint. Repair or replace any wood siding or trim found with cupping, warps, bows or twists.

To-Do

• Note any obvious cracks, joint separations. Cracks and any warps or twists in the wood siding and trim require immediate repairs.