How to Repair Decaying Wood Siding
Wood siding provides a beautiful natural look for a home, but also requires maintenance to keep in good condition. Different types of wood siding are prone to different problems, but splits, holes, water and termite damage need to be addressed as the damage occurs in order to prevent leaks and further damage to your house. Here we address the most common problems with decaying wood siding and how to make repairs. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Instructions
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Determine the type of siding to be repaired and the type of repair to be made. Lap siding (also known as bevel or clapboard siding) are long boards in overlapping lengths applied horizontally to the side of the house. Sheet siding (also known as hardboard siding) are large 4-by-8-foot panels nailed to the framing. It can form the exterior surface of the home or be covered in a finishing material. Shingle siding (also known as shake siding) are small shingles applied in overlapping rows. Typical repairs for all types of wood involve repairing split, warped or decaying siding sections.
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On lap (clapboard) siding, loosen the decayed or damaged boards to be replaced by pulling the nails from the lower portion of the top overlapping boards and of the board to be replaced. Pry the board loose and find an identically sized replacement of similar material. Hammer the replacement board into place, nail and paint. Warped boards may sometimes be repaired simply by securing the board to the studs below using wood screws. Stain or paint the replacement boards to match the rest of the wall.
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A typical problem with sheet siding is splits or holes, which may be repaired with wood putty. If the damage is more extensive, such as decay or termite damage, a section of the panel may need to be repaired. Use a circular saw to cut a rectangle from the offending panel, then remove nails and pry loose the section to be replaced. Cut a section to fit the rectangle from a similar piece of wood, then nail to the studs, putty or caulk the joint, and paint or stain. In extreme cases of damage or buckling, replace the entire 4-by-8-foot panel by removing nails and prying loose.
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To repair shingles, start by finding similar replacements at a lumber store. Use a wood chisel to split the damaged shingle, pry up the shingle and remove the nails. Cut the new shingle to fit, then hammer into place and nail. Re-finish the new shingle to match the wall. Shingles that are merely split can usually be nailed back into place. Caulk the split and touch-up with paint or stain.
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To prevent future problems, maintain your siding in good condition. Peeling, weathered or blistered paint should be scraped and repainted and the entire house should be repainted every five to eight years. Shingles should be stained and treated with a clear sealer to help prevent sun and water damage. Scrub mildew and discoloration with a solution of three parts water to one part bleach.
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Tips & Warnings
In repairing shingles, you may need to use a hacksaw to cut nails from the underside of the shingle if prying and splitting alone doesn't release the shingle.
