What is Masonite Siding?
As a future or current homeowner, it is vital to know a variety of siding products, their pros and cons, how they work, how they are installed among others. Masonite is one of the common siding products you can use. However, you need to ask and answer this question before using it, “Will it be worth my money and time?”.
After reading through this article, you will know the answer to this.
A little history about Masonite Siding
Masonite siding was mainly used in Toronto and Vancouver, especially in residential homes. The material was initially manufactured by Masonite, but later it was adopted by other manufacturers, masonite siding, being the leading one currently. Give us a call today if you would like a quote for our services.
Most homeowners in the specified region used it in new constructions between 1980 and 2010. However, people discovered that this siding product had a very low durability period, the aesthetic value was low, and the disintegration was a notch higher.
After the discovery of this, many people replaced, and are still replacing their masonite siding with vinyl or other siding products. However, take note that some contractors might present masonite siding as a higher-quality material, which is why you need to be very careful.
The reaction of people, in addition to the opinion of experts, caused the original producer to minimize its production.
Masonite features
Masonite is made by gluing together sawdust and paper overlay. Its appearance mimics that of natural wood, but of course, it is of lower quality.
Masonite has the least resistance to water and any moisture. Therefore, at the least penetration of moisture into it, the board becomes rotten and builds up mould.
Water/moisture damage causes a brittle effect on masonite, and it starts reacting like cardboard. This means it becomes very soft, and just a small physical impact on it will lead to massive damage.
Most people are still sticking with Masonite, which is not very bad. However, professionals in the field in the field have confirmed the inferiority of the material.
Common problems with Masonite Siding
Note: Almost all masonite problems are caused by contact with water and moisture.
1. Blistering
Blistering is a common problem caused by two problems, either the contact of the masonite siding and water for a long while or eating through by insects. This problem affects both the durability of the siding and its appeal.
The corrective or preventive measure prevents, as much as you can, any water or moisture contact with the masonite siding. You can also spray repellants and insecticides regularly around the house to keep off the insects.
2. Buckling
Buckling on masonite siding is caused when it is subjected to relatively significant physical impact. You can prevent this by avoiding exerting any physical pressure on the siding.
3. Extreme mildew
If you have seen some thin growth of fungal layer on the walls or siding then you have seen mildew. These are mostly witnessed in areas where the atmosphere has a high content of moisture.
4. Rotting
Just like other siding products, masonite also rots, and its rotting is also caused by extreme contact with water and exposure to humid conditions.
5. Molding
Moulds can be hazardous not only to the walls but also to the people who live in the house in question. These dangerous moulds can be caused by either high humidity or by waterlogging.
You should, therefore, avoid any water contact with the masonite siding.
How to repair Masonite siding
- Scrap off the affected area.
- Apply primer to the area in question.
- Apply caulk on the damaged area to improve its structural ability and close any existing cracks.
- Paint the area. Paint is used to prevent insects from infesting the siding again. It also prevents damage from changes in weather.
- Use putty on the area to close the holes and regain the siding’s stability.
Masonite is not the most or even one of the recommended siding products. However, in case you already have it on your exterior walls, you need to accept that and focus on maintaining it and preventing the problems mentioned above from happening.
If you are living in Vancouver, call our siding Vancouver company for quick professional help.