When it comes to siding your home, what lies beneath is just as important as the siding itself. The choice of substrate – the layer directly under the siding board – has a massive impact on the overall efficiency, look, and longevity of the exterior.
Substrate Types
The type of substrate you choose is heavily dependent on the existing product on the house. If you have an engineered wood product like an LP or Masonite, you can often use it as your substrate.
In some cases, products such as Hardy can be directly applied to these as a substrate. The goal is to add as much flatness and strength to the exterior as possible. This not only provides a solid base but also helps in truing up the wall.
Other Options for a Substrate
Another commendable option is the OSB (Oriented Strand Board) product, especially when combined with a quality house wrap. The Zip system, prevalent in box stores and new constructions, is an excellent example.
It integrates the strength and rigidity of OSB with a treated weather barrier under the siding board’s face. With this system, you can often get away with just using tape for sealing.
Securing the House Wrap
Before the siding goes on, you need to ensure your substrate is covered and protected. This is where a house wrap comes in.
Need for Quality House Wrap
A top-notch house wrap ensures your home’s exterior remains impermeable to external elements. However, merely putting it up isn’t enough; its security and the way it’s handled matter significantly.
For instance, using the house wrap over a substrate like OSB or an existing siding requires attention to details like flashing all openings with quality materials, such as metal for hardboard products.
Identifying Expertise Through Taping
Taping is a critical aspect of ensuring the effectiveness of house wrap systems. As an example, in areas like Kansas City, you can assess the proficiency of a crew by observing the house wrap on buildings. If the wrap is fluttering in the wind, they haven’t secured it properly. If not addressed, this can lead to problems like air infiltration and future water issues. Proper taping at every seam using quality tape signifies a well-protected house against external elements.
Preventing Moisture Build-Up Under the Siding Board
Regardless of the siding material—be it vinyl, engineered wood, or metal—it’s imperative that no water finds its way behind the siding board. The typical base on which siding is hung is a wood product. If moisture settles behind your siding, the wooden structure’s integrity gets compromised, leading to bigger issues down the line.
Conclusion
In conclusion, what lies under the siding board plays a pivotal role in ensuring the durability and efficacy of the siding. Whether it’s choosing the right substrate, ensuring a quality house wrap, or preventing moisture build-up, every step is crucial in guaranteeing a home’s protection from external elements. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us.
