Siding and Cladding for Facade Renovations in Des Moines, IA

Understanding Existing Wall Conditions

Before selecting any new siding or cladding, a detailed assessment of the existing wall is crucial. This includes evaluating the current sheathing, insulation, vapor barrier, and any signs of water intrusion or structural compromise. For renovation projects, understanding the substrate's condition determines the suitability of different cladding systems and identifies any necessary repairs or upgrades.

Factors such as the type of existing framing (wood or steel), its condition, and the presence of any rot or pest damage will influence attachment methods and the overall project scope. In Des Moines' climate, which experiences significant temperature swings and moisture, particular attention should be paid to ensuring the wall assembly can effectively manage water and air movement.

Selecting the Right Siding and Cladding Material

Lumber Plus offers a range of siding and cladding materials suitable for facade renovations, each with distinct characteristics. Your choice will depend on aesthetic preferences, performance requirements, and compatibility with your existing structure.

Thermally modified wood, such as Scandinavian Thermally Modified Wood or thermally modified Ash, offers enhanced stability and durability, making it a robust option for exterior applications. These materials undergo a heat treatment process that improves their resistance to decay and moisture. Maximo Accoya, an acetylated wood product, provides exceptional dimensional stability and durability, suitable for demanding exterior environments. For those seeking the natural beauty and strength of tropical hardwoods, options like Ipe, Cumaru, Garapa, Angelim, Jatoba, and Tigerwood are available. These woods are known for their dense grain and natural resistance to decay and insects. Additionally, Norx composite cladding offers a low-maintenance alternative, available in various profiles and finishes.

Consider the desired aesthetic: a natural wood look, a modern composite finish, or something in between. Each material offers different textures, colors, and grain patterns that can dramatically alter the facade's appearance. Refer to the specific product pages for detailed profiles and finishes available.

Designing for Performance: Rainscreen Principles

For facade renovations, especially in climates with varying weather conditions, integrating rainscreen principles is often a beneficial approach. A rainscreen assembly creates a ventilated air gap behind the cladding, allowing any moisture that penetrates the outer layer to drain away and promoting drying. This system helps protect the underlying wall assembly from moisture accumulation, enhancing durability and reducing maintenance.

When planning a rainscreen, ensure adequate space for the air gap and proper detailing around windows, doors, and corners to maintain continuous drainage and ventilation. This approach can be particularly valuable when retrofitting an older facade that may have had limited moisture management capabilities.

Worked Example: Renovating a 20-foot by 10-foot Wall with Thermally Modified Ayous

Consider renovating a single exterior wall of an existing structure, measuring 20 feet wide and 10 feet high, totaling 200 square feet. The existing wall is wood-framed with plywood sheathing, and a new rainscreen system with vertical thermally modified Ayous cladding is desired. Ayous cladding is typically supplied in various lengths and profiles. For this example, we will assume 1x6 (nominal) boards with an actual face width of 5 inches (0.4167 feet) in random lengths, targeting an average length suitable for vertical installation.

First, determine the number of boards needed. For a 20-foot wide wall, and using boards with a 5-inch face width, you would need 20 feet / 0.4167 feet/board = approximately 48 boards to cover the width. For a 10-foot height, and assuming minimal waste from cuts, you would need 48 boards, each 10 feet long. This equates to 480 linear feet of Ayous cladding. However, accounting for cuts, waste, and starting/ending boards, it's prudent to add 10-15% for waste, bringing the total to around 528-552 linear feet. If boards are typically sold in 8-foot, 10-foot, and 12-foot lengths, you might opt for 10-foot lengths to minimize cuts for a 10-foot wall, purchasing 55 boards of 10-foot length, totaling 550 linear feet.

For the rainscreen, you would need furring strips, typically 3/4-inch to 1.5-inch thick, installed vertically over a weather-resistive barrier. For a 20-foot wide wall, with furring strips spaced at 16 or 24 inches on center, you would calculate the linear footage of furring required. Each strip would be 10 feet long, so 150 linear feet of furring. Always confirm specific product dimensions and installation instructions, as profiles and exact coverage can vary.

Crucial Documentation and Planning Steps

Before finalizing your material order, gather and review all relevant documentation. This includes manufacturer installation guides for your chosen siding or cladding, details on flashing and trim, and any local building code requirements for facade renovations in Des Moines, IA. Ensure you have a clear understanding of the substrate preparation, fastener types, and required clearances.

Work with your contractor to develop a detailed installation plan, including a cut list to minimize waste, especially for premium materials. Confirm the exact profile of the cladding and any complementary trim pieces. Consider how corners, window and door openings, and the base of the wall will be finished to ensure proper weather protection and a cohesive appearance.

Before you order

• Assess existing wall conditions (sheathing, insulation, moisture issues, structural integrity).
• Determine if a rainscreen assembly is appropriate for your project and climate.
• Select siding/cladding material based on aesthetics, durability, and budget (Thermally Modified Wood, Maximo Accoya, Hardwood, Norx Composite).
• Choose the exact profile and dimensions of the cladding.
• Plan for trim, flashing, and corner details.
• Calculate material quantities, including waste factor, for cladding and furring strips.
• Review manufacturer installation guides and local building codes.
• Confirm fastener types and attachment methods.
• Consider long-term maintenance requirements for the chosen material.

Confirm installation details, approved uses and warranty terms in the current instructions for the exact product and profile. Your installer should verify the substrate, structure and applicable project requirements.

This is a planning guide for projects in Des Moines, IA. Ask our team to confirm availability, delivery to your ZIP code and which branch can support your order.

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