Siding and Cladding for Facade Renovations in Manchester, NH

Understanding Your Existing Wall Assembly

Before selecting any new siding or cladding, it is essential to understand what lies beneath the current facade. This includes identifying the structural framing (wood or steel), the type of sheathing, the presence and condition of a weather-resistive barrier (WRB), and the existing insulation. Knowing these components will dictate how the new cladding can be attached and what, if any, modifications are necessary to ensure proper water management and thermal performance.

For older homes in Manchester, you might encounter original plaster and lath, or various generations of siding materials. A professional assessment can reveal issues like rot, moisture damage, or insufficient insulation, which should be addressed as part of the renovation. This diagnostic phase is crucial for avoiding future problems and ensuring the new facade performs as intended.

Material Options: Thermally Modified Wood

Thermally modified wood offers an option for facade renovations, providing enhanced stability and a distinct appearance. This process uses heat to alter the wood's cellular structure, which can make it more resistant to moisture changes and certain environmental factors. Common species available include thermally modified Ayous and Ash, which present clean grain patterns suitable for contemporary designs. Scandinavian thermally modified wood, such as thermally modified Pine, is also available, known for its Nordic character.

This material can be a choice for rainscreen facades, where a ventilated air gap behind the cladding helps manage moisture. When considering thermally modified wood, evaluate the desired aesthetic – from natural wood tones to options that can be finished or allowed to weather naturally. Specific profiles and dimensions are available and can be milled in-house to meet project requirements.

Accoya, an acetylated wood product, is another modified wood option distinct from thermally modified wood. It offers its own set of characteristics for siding and cladding applications.

Material Options: Brazilian Hardwoods

For projects requiring robust and visually striking facades, Brazilian hardwoods can be considered. These species are known for their natural density and varied grain patterns. Ipe, for example, is recognized for its bold grain and strength. Cumaru offers a golden tone, while Garapa is often considered a structural workhorse for larger wall applications. Other options like Angelim provide a deep red facade, Jatoba presents a dramatic figure, and Tigerwood displays distinctive patterns.

The natural characteristics of these hardwoods can contribute to a facade with significant visual impact. When specifying Brazilian hardwoods, consider their natural color variation and how they may weather over time if left unfinished. These materials are often chosen for their inherent properties and aesthetic depth.

As with any wood product, proper installation, including appropriate fasteners and ventilation, is important for the longevity and performance of Brazilian hardwood cladding.

Material Options: Composite Cladding

Composite cladding, such as Norx composite, provides an alternative to natural wood, often chosen for its consistency and specific aesthetic ranges. These products are engineered materials that can mimic the appearance of wood while offering different performance characteristics. Norx composite cladding is available in various finishes, including options like London Black, which can create a distinct facade.

Composite materials are designed for exterior wall applications and can be integrated into modern architectural designs. They are available in profiles suitable for both exterior walls and interior feature walls, offering versatility in design. When considering composite cladding, review the available colors, textures, and installation guidelines to ensure compatibility with your renovation project's requirements.

These materials can be part of a comprehensive facade strategy, providing a consistent look across the elevation. The specific properties of composite cladding should be reviewed in the context of the wall assembly and local climate conditions.

Worked Example: Facade Upgrade for a Manchester Home

Consider a hypothetical renovation of a 1950s single-story home in Manchester, NH, with an existing exterior wall measuring 30 feet long and 9 feet high. The current siding is aged aluminum over original wood sheathing. The goal is to replace the siding with thermally modified Ayous cladding, installed horizontally with a rainscreen gap.

First, the existing aluminum siding and any deteriorated sheathing would be removed. The total wall area is 30 ft x 9 ft = 270 square feet. If the thermally modified Ayous cladding boards are supplied in 6-inch (0.5 ft) widths and various lengths, a typical purchase might involve boards sufficient to cover the area, accounting for cuts and waste.

Assuming 12-foot nominal lengths are efficient for minimizing waste with a 30-foot wall (requiring three pieces per course, with 6 feet of offcut per course), and a 6-inch exposure, there would be 18 courses (9 ft / 0.5 ft). This means 18 courses * 3 pieces/course = 54 pieces of 12-foot cladding. The total linear footage would be 54 * 12 = 648 linear feet. This calculation provides a starting point for material estimation, with additional material typically ordered for waste factor and future repairs. This example assumes simple rectangular walls without complex window or door cutouts for clarity. Actual projects require precise measurements of all openings and detailed cut plans.

Before you order

• Assess existing wall conditions: structural integrity, sheathing, WRB, insulation.
• Determine required repairs or upgrades to the wall assembly before cladding.
• Evaluate desired aesthetic: natural wood, stained wood, or composite appearance.
• Consider material properties: stability, weathering characteristics, maintenance.
• Verify compatibility with rainscreen or other wall system requirements.
• Review available profiles and dimensions for the chosen material.
• Plan for proper fastening and ventilation based on material and local conditions.
• Calculate material quantities, including waste factor and field cuts.
• Confirm any necessary local building code requirements for exterior renovations.

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 Manchester, NH. Ask our team to confirm availability, delivery to your ZIP code and which branch can support your order.

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