Whenever we think about updating the front of our home, the first thing that comes to our mind is Masonite siding. It always has been a “one pick” choice for homeowners. Why so? Well, masonite siding provides you with the durability that you seek.

It also requires low maintenance and is perfect for your cladding solution. Masonite siding is usually made of wood fibers and resin.

Are you considering upgrading the exterior of your home with masonite siding? Your choice is pretty understandable; who wouldn’t want to leverage the benefits it provides? However, there are some common issues associated with the materials.

In this blog, we will discuss what masonite siding is and the issues that come with it. We will also discuss the remedies to help you fix the masonite siding issues.

Read on…

What Is Masonite Siding?

In the 1920s, William H. Mason first invented this material, a considerable alternative to solid wood.

Masonite siding, also known as hardboard siding, is famous across the United States. This siding is made of wax, resin, and wood fibers. The materials are combined under high pressure in a heated condition to create this waterproof material.

The masonite siding probably has a wood-like appearance but is less disadvantageous than the natural wood. So, there are no such issues related to pests.

In general, masonite siding is used for construction purposes. Why? Because the material is:

• Comparatively cheap.
• Relatively strong enough.
• You can work with it very efficiently.

However, there are potential issues such as mold, mildew, and susceptibility to moisture, which makes Masonite siding an inferior option for your exterior.

We will discuss common issues and how to fix them in the following section.

Masonite Siding: How Is It Made?

Masonites are basically made by breaking up wooden chips into a high-pressure steam chamber. Once the disintegration is done, the chips are further depressured through a small opening. This is where you can shape them into pressure-molded shapes.

Masonite is different from any other manufactured board. While making a masonite sheet, do not use any formaldehyde-based resins to create a bond between the fibers.

The process totally relies on the original structure of the wood cells. This is how you create the bond between the materials. There are some cases where you can dip the sheet in linseed oil. It helps to make the sheet much stronger.  

The Main Types Of Masonite Siding

There are three specific kinds of masonite siding which are:

Regular Masonite Siding

This kind of masonite siding is widespread. It comes in various colors as well as textured. You can find both smooth and woodgrain features on regular masonite siding.

Textured Masonite Siding

The textured masonite sidings are made out of wood fibers and resin. You can find both smooth and woodgrain of this specific masonite type. However, the textured masonite sidings have a rougher texture than the masonite siding.

Painted Masonite Siding

The painted masonite types are made from wood fibers and resin. The boards come in a rougher texture than the textured and regular masonite siding. You can find painted masonite siding in both smooth and woodgrain type.   

The Common Problems With Masonite Siding

You can use Masonite in many construction aspects. However, it could do better as a siding material.

In general, your house’s exterior siding is exposed on the outside, as masonite siding is made from wood fibers and resins, and suffers the same problems as wood products.

In the following section, I will describe the common problems with masonite siding.

Rot And Decay

What is it?: Like any other natural wood, the masonite siding is also prone to rot and decay if it is exposed to moisture for a long time.

This can further harm the overall structure and cost you a small fortune.

Cause: The rot and decay mainly occur when the sidings start to absorb moisture. This further leads to fungal growth and causes damage.

Solution: You must ensure that you have proper drainage around your home.

Secondly, you must repair the affected parts and continue a regular inspection of your sidings. This can help you to prevent fungal growth.

Moisture Damage

What is it? Moisture damage is one of the significant problems you might have with masonite siding. If you fail to seal the Masonite properly, it can continue to absorb water.

As a result, you may notice swelling and wrapping, leading to massive structural damage. This can further harm the overall structure and cost you a small fortune.

Cause: The main reasons behind moisture damage are improper installation, inadequate sealing, and broad exposure to extreme weather for a prolonged period.

Solution: You can prevent moisture in some basic and simple steps. First of all, you must ensure that experienced professionals do the proper installation of masonite siding.

Secondly, you must inspect the siding to determine any issues with water filtration.

Lastly, it would help if you considered putting in a high-quality sealant. This can help you to prevent the siding from moisture absorption.

Termite Infestation

What is it?: The masonite sidings do not attract pests like the natural woods. But it still can attract destructive pets if you don’t protect it adequately.

Cause: The termite infestation mainly occurs when Masonite comes in contact with soil. Moisture damage can also create a way for termite activity.

Solution: It is easy to prevent termite infestations. You must keep your surroundings clear around your house.  

Please minimize the soil contact with your masonite siding.

Why Should You Avoid Using Masonite Siding?

Masonite siding was so popular among homeowners! Especially the ones who seek an affordable option and an alternative to wood. However, as time passed, people started to shift from Masonite sidings.

Here’s why!

It Requires High Maintenance

There are various kinds of siding materials available online. Amongst all, masonite siding requires high maintenance when you try to preserve its appearance and structure.

You might have to spend money on regular painting, inspections, and sealing to prevent moisture infiltration and potential damage.

So, eventually, the maintenance cost ban will become a burden for you.

Concerns Related To The Environment

Do you know how masonite sidings are processed? Well, the process includes synthetic resins and chemicals. This creates the potential to raise environmental concerns.

Environmental awareness about sidings has started growing, and eventually, homeowners have become more cautious about construction materials.

Thus, it has decreased the overall popularity of masonite siding.

There Are Various Alternatives Available In The Market.  

The siding technologies are blooming, and various durable and low-maintenance alternatives are available. Some of them can provide more durability than masonite siding.  

Some options include vinyl, fiber cement, and specially engineered woods, which highly resist moisture or prevent destructive bugs.

The availability of such materials has impacted the decline of masonite siding.

How To Fix Issues Of Masonite Siding

Maintenance of masonite siding requires a lot of patience and diligence. However, it is simple enough. All you must do is perform regular inspections, choose the correct painting, or opt for an adequate drainage system. Read on…..

Inspect Regularly

Take some time out of your busy schedule. You can even utilize your Sundays for masonite inspection. You must look for potential damage or even any sign of it.

A thorough inspection can help you achieve a long-term lifespan for masonite siding. You must also look for cracks, bubbles, or any other kind of deformities on the masonite siding.

Don’t Forget About Timely Repair.

If you notice any damage during the inspection, you must immediately address the issue. However, that totally depends on how severe the condition is.

You can consult with siding experts who can help to repair or replace the masonite siding.

Choose The Right Painting.

Choosing the correct painting type is a critical part of masonite siding maintenance. You must use the right kind of color that can prevent moisture and resist other weather conditions.

Moreover, suitable primer and color also help to increase the overall lifespan of your house.

Ensure An Adequate Water Drainage System.

You must ensure that your house has a well-functioning water drainage system. This can play a huge role in preventing water damage to your siding.

Wrapping It Up!

The masonite sidings offer you various benefits like aesthetic versatility and better affordability. While choosing masonite siding, you need to be aware of the problems and consequences that come with it.

Once you understand the causes of such masonite siding, it becomes easy to implement measurements. As a result, you can ensure the protection and longevity of the masonite siding.

I hope this article has helped you understand the common issues related to the Masonite guide and how to fix them! Did you find it helpful? Please let us know in the comment section.

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