Understanding Existing Wall Conditions
Before selecting any new siding or cladding, a detailed evaluation of the existing wall is necessary. This includes identifying the current exterior material, the condition of the sheathing, and the presence and type of any existing weather-resistive barrier (WRB). Look for signs of water damage, rot, mold, or structural issues. Any deficiencies must be addressed and repaired before installing new materials.
For renovations, especially on older homes, the wall assembly may not meet current building codes for moisture management or insulation. Consider whether the renovation offers an opportunity to upgrade these components. A professional inspection can help identify hidden problems and recommend appropriate solutions, ensuring a sound foundation for your new facade.
Material Options: Thermally Modified Wood, Hardwood, and Composite
Lumber Plus offers a range of siding and cladding materials suitable for facade renovations, each with distinct characteristics. Understanding these differences can help you select the best fit for your project's aesthetic and performance requirements.
Thermally Modified Wood: Scandinavian thermally modified wood, such as Ayous, Ash, or Clear Radiata, offers enhanced stability and durability. The thermal modification process makes the wood more resistant to rot and insects, reducing maintenance needs. These materials often present a clean grain suitable for contemporary facades. Maximo Accoya is another acetylated wood option known for its stability and suitability for various cladding applications. For more details, explore our collection of thermally modified wood.
Brazilian Hardwoods: For a facade with bold grain and natural strength, Brazilian hardwoods like Ipe, Cumaru, Garapa, Angelim, or Jatoba are robust choices. These woods are dense and naturally durable, offering a rich, distinctive appearance. Tigerwood also provides a dramatic figure for statement walls.
Composite Cladding: Norx composite cladding provides a low-maintenance alternative, often available in consistent profiles and colors. This material is engineered for exterior use and can offer a uniform appearance with less natural variation than wood. You can find more information about Norx products on our Norx brand page.
Choosing the Right Profile and Finish
The profile of your siding or cladding significantly impacts the final aesthetic. Options range from traditional lap siding to modern rainscreen systems. For example, a horizontal profile can create a sense of width, while vertical profiles can emphasize height. The finish, whether natural, stained, or painted, also plays a crucial role.
Consider how the chosen profile and finish will interact with existing architectural elements, such as windows, doors, and rooflines. For wood products, natural aging (patina) should be factored into the long-term appearance. Some materials can be milled in-house to achieve specific profiles and dimensions, offering flexibility for custom designs.
Installation Considerations for Facade Renovations
Proper installation is as important as material selection. For facade renovations, this often involves removing existing materials, preparing the substrate, and ensuring adequate drainage and ventilation. A rainscreen assembly, which creates a ventilation gap between the cladding and the weather-resistive barrier, is often recommended to manage moisture effectively and improve thermal performance.
Fasteners, trim, and flashing details must be carefully planned to prevent water intrusion, especially around openings like windows and doors. Always consult manufacturer guidelines for specific installation instructions and recommended clearances. When working with wood, account for natural movement and expansion/contraction.
Worked Example: Facade Renovation on a 1960s Ranch Home
Consider a hypothetical 1960s ranch home in Lincoln, NE, with existing 4x8 plywood siding that shows signs of delamination and paint failure. The homeowner desires a modern, low-maintenance look.
1. **Existing Condition Assessment:** An inspection reveals the plywood siding is delaminating in several areas, and the existing asphalt-impregnated felt paper WRB is brittle. The wall studs are 2x4s on 16-inch centers. No significant structural rot is found, but some sheathing repair is necessary.
2. **Scope of Work:** The existing siding and felt paper will be removed. Any damaged sheathing will be replaced with new plywood. A new continuous WRB (e.g., a synthetic house wrap) will be installed, followed by vertical furring strips to create a rainscreen cavity. The new cladding will be Norx composite, in a dark gray horizontal profile.
3. **Material Selection:** Norx composite cladding is chosen for its durability and low maintenance, appealing to the homeowner's desire for a modern aesthetic without frequent repainting. The horizontal profile will complement the ranch style while giving a contemporary update.
4. **Quantity Calculation (Hypothetical):** Assuming a facade wall section is 20 feet wide by 8 feet high (160 sq ft). If the Norx composite planks are 6 inches wide (0.5 ft) and 12 feet long, each plank covers 6 square feet. To cover 160 square feet, approximately 27 planks would be needed (160 / 6 = 26.67). However, accounting for cuts, waste, and specific corner details, an additional 10-15% should be added, bringing the purchase quantity closer to 30-31 planks. This calculation is simplified and does not include trim, corner pieces, or starter strips, which would be part of a full material takeoff.
Before you order
- Have you thoroughly inspected the existing wall for damage, rot, or moisture issues?
- Is the existing weather-resistive barrier intact, or does it need replacement/upgrade?
- What is the condition of the underlying sheathing and framing?
- Do local building codes require specific insulation or air barrier upgrades for renovations?
- What aesthetic do you want to achieve (modern, rustic, traditional)?
- What are your long-term maintenance expectations for the new facade material?
- Does the chosen material and profile complement your home's architectural style?
- Have you considered the impact of weather exposure (sun, wind, precipitation) on the material's longevity?
- Have you planned for proper ventilation and drainage, such as a rainscreen system?
- Are specific fastening systems or trim accessories required for your chosen material?
- Have you accounted for all necessary flashing details around windows, doors, and corners?
- Is a professional installer familiar with the chosen material and renovation best practices?
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 Lincoln, NE. Ask our team to confirm availability, delivery to your ZIP code and which branch can support your order.
Questions to help you decide
What is the benefit of a rainscreen system for facade renovations?
A rainscreen system creates a ventilation gap between the exterior cladding and the weather-resistive barrier. This gap allows moisture to drain away and air to circulate, helping to dry out the wall assembly. This can improve the durability of the facade, reduce the risk of moisture-related damage, and potentially enhance thermal performance by minimizing heat transfer through the wall.
Can I install new siding directly over old siding?
While sometimes done, installing new siding directly over old siding is generally not recommended for facade renovations. It can trap moisture, conceal existing damage, and make future repairs more challenging. For a durable and effective renovation, it's best practice to remove the old siding, inspect and repair the underlying wall, and properly prepare the substrate before installing new materials. This also ensures the new cladding is installed according to manufacturer specifications and building codes.
How do I choose between wood and composite cladding for my renovation?
The choice between wood and composite cladding depends on your priorities. Wood cladding, such as thermally modified wood or Brazilian hardwoods, offers natural beauty, unique grain patterns, and can be stained or allowed to patina. It typically requires more maintenance (e.g., periodic cleaning, re-finishing). Composite cladding, like Norx, is engineered for consistency and low maintenance, often resisting rot, insects, and fading without regular sealing or painting. Consider your desired aesthetic, budget, and willingness to maintain the facade over time.
Ready to Transform Your Facade in Lincoln, NE?
Request a material quote with your project dimensions, desired profile, and ZIP code. We can confirm current availability and service options for your facade renovation project.
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