Evaluating Existing Wall Conditions
Before any new siding or cladding is installed, a comprehensive evaluation of the existing wall is crucial. This includes checking for structural integrity, moisture intrusion, insulation effectiveness, and the condition of the substrate. Any signs of rot, mold, or pest infestation must be addressed first. For older buildings, lead paint or asbestos-containing materials might be present, requiring specialized remediation.
Verify the flatness and plumb of the existing wall. Significant deviations may require furring strips or a leveling system to ensure the new cladding sits correctly and maintains proper drainage. Understanding the existing wall assembly – whether it's solid masonry, stud frame, or another construction type – will dictate appropriate fastening methods and the need for a rainscreen system.
Selecting Your Siding and Cladding Material
Lumber Plus offers a range of siding and cladding materials suitable for various aesthetic and performance requirements. Your choice will depend on factors like desired appearance, durability, maintenance expectations, and budget.
For a natural wood look, consider Thermally Modified Wood, available in species like Ayous or Ash. These woods undergo a heat treatment process that enhances their stability and resistance to decay, making them suitable for exterior applications. They offer a refined, contemporary aesthetic. Another option is Maximo Accoya, an acetylated wood product known for its dimensional stability and durability. These materials can provide a distinct, high-quality finish.
Brazilian hardwoods such as Ipe, Cumaru, Garapa, Angelim, Jatoba, and Tigerwood offer robust and visually striking options. Each species presents unique grain patterns and color tones, from the deep reds of Jatoba to the golden hues of Cumaru. These woods are dense and naturally resistant, making them a durable choice for a facade.
For a low-maintenance alternative, Norx composite cladding provides a consistent appearance and is engineered for longevity. These options eliminate the need for regular staining or sealing, which can be a consideration for busy homeowners or commercial properties.
Explore our full selection of siding and cladding materials at our main product page: [Siding and Cladding](/siding-and-cladding).
Understanding Rainscreen Assemblies
For many siding and cladding applications, especially in climates with significant rainfall, a rainscreen assembly is recommended. A rainscreen system creates a ventilated air gap behind the cladding, allowing moisture to drain and walls to dry, reducing the risk of water damage and improving thermal performance. This is particularly relevant in areas like Little Rock, which experiences its share of precipitation.
The components of a rainscreen typically include a water-resistive barrier (WRB), furring strips to create the air gap, and the exterior cladding. The exact detailing around windows, doors, and corners is crucial for the system's effectiveness. Consult manufacturer specifications for appropriate rainscreen design for your chosen material.
Planning for Installation and Fastening
The success of your facade renovation hinges on proper installation. Each material has specific fastening requirements. For wood products, this often involves corrosion-resistant fasteners, and the method (face-fastened, hidden clip, etc.) will influence the final appearance.
Consider the layout of your chosen profile. Many siding and cladding profiles are designed for either horizontal or vertical installation, or sometimes both. Plan for consistent spacing, proper alignment, and clean transitions at corners and openings. Field cuts will be necessary, so plan for efficient material use and consider how cut ends will be finished or concealed. Movement joints may also be necessary for certain materials to accommodate natural expansion and contraction.
Worked Example: Facade Renovation with Thermally Modified Ayous
Let's consider a hypothetical facade renovation for a 20-foot wide by 10-foot high section of a residential building in Little Rock. The existing wall is sound, but the homeowner desires a modern, natural wood aesthetic with low maintenance. They choose Thermally Modified Ayous cladding, with boards measuring 5.5 inches wide (nominal, actual width for coverage calculation is 5 inches) and supplied in 10-foot lengths, to be installed horizontally with a 1/2-inch reveal between boards.
First, calculate the total area: 20 feet x 10 feet = 200 square feet. For horizontal installation, each 10-foot board provides 10 feet x 5 inches = 50 square inches, or approximately 0.347 square feet of visible coverage per linear foot, or 4.167 square feet per 10-foot board (5 inches / 12 inches/foot * 10 feet).
The number of courses needed for the 10-foot height: Each course (board + reveal) will take up 5 inches + 0.5 inches = 5.5 inches of vertical space. Total vertical feet is 10 feet * 12 inches/foot = 120 inches. Number of courses = 120 inches / 5.5 inches per course = 21.8 courses. Since you cannot have a partial course, you will need 22 courses. Each course requires a 20-foot length. Since boards are supplied in 10-foot lengths, each course will require two 10-foot boards. Total boards needed = 22 courses * 2 boards/course = 44 boards.
Adding a typical waste factor of 10-15% for cuts and unforeseen issues, let's use 10% for this example: 44 boards * 1.10 = 48.4 boards. Round up to 49 boards. This calculation assumes minimal waste from cuts, for example, if the 20-foot width can be exactly covered by two 10-foot boards. If the width was, for instance, 21 feet, each course would still require three 10-foot boards, with a 9-foot offcut per board.
This example highlights the importance of precise measurements and understanding the actual dimensions and lengths of the material you are purchasing, as well as accounting for reveals and waste factors. For this project, you would also need furring strips for a rainscreen, a water-resistive barrier, and appropriate fasteners. You can find Thermally Modified Wood options here: [Thermally Modified Wood](/thermally-modified-wood).
Before you order
- Have I thoroughly inspected the existing wall for structural integrity, moisture, and flatness?
- Have I accounted for any necessary remediation (e.g., lead paint, asbestos, rot) before cladding installation?
- Which material best suits my aesthetic goals, durability needs, and maintenance expectations?
- Is a rainscreen assembly appropriate for my project and climate, and have I planned its components?
- Do I have a clear understanding of the fastening requirements for my chosen material?
- Have I calculated the material quantities accurately, including waste factors and reveals?
- Have I considered how corners, windows, and doors will be detailed with the new cladding?
- Have I reviewed manufacturer installation guidelines for my selected siding and cladding profiles?
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 Little Rock, AR. 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 difference between siding and cladding?
While often used interchangeably, 'siding' typically refers to exterior materials applied to homes, often for weather protection and aesthetic appeal, such as vinyl or fiber cement. 'Cladding' is a broader term that encompasses any material applied to a building's exterior to provide a skin or layer, which can include functional and decorative purposes. In practice, many wood and composite products can be referred to as both.
Do I need a rainscreen system in Little Rock, AR?
Little Rock experiences significant rainfall throughout the year. While not always strictly mandated by code for every application, a rainscreen system is highly recommended for most exterior siding and cladding projects. It helps manage moisture, improves wall drying, and can enhance the longevity and performance of your facade by preventing water accumulation behind the cladding.
How do I account for expansion and contraction of wood siding?
Wood is a natural material that will expand and contract with changes in humidity and temperature. For siding and cladding, this is managed through proper installation techniques, including leaving appropriate gaps between boards (reveals), using flexible sealants where necessary, and selecting suitable fastening methods. Thermally modified and acetylated woods are engineered to have enhanced dimensional stability compared to untreated woods, reducing this movement.
Start Your Facade Renovation Project
Ready to transform your facade? Request a material quote today. Provide your project dimensions, desired profile, and ZIP code to receive accurate pricing and confirm current availability and service options for your Little Rock, AR project.
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