Understanding Existing Wall Conditions
Before any new siding or cladding can be installed, a comprehensive assessment of the existing facade is essential. This includes identifying the current wall assembly, such as sheathing, vapor barriers, and insulation. Look for signs of water intrusion, rot, or insect damage, particularly around windows, doors, and rooflines. Any underlying issues must be addressed and remediated before proceeding with new cladding to prevent future problems.
Consider the type of existing substrate. Is it plywood, OSB, concrete, or another material? The substrate will dictate appropriate fastening methods and the need for additional preparation. A professional inspection can uncover hidden issues and ensure the structural soundness of the wall before renovation begins.
Material Options: Thermally Modified Wood
Thermally modified wood offers enhanced stability and durability, making it a suitable choice for exterior applications. The modification process uses heat to alter the wood's cellular structure, which can improve its resistance to moisture absorption and decay. This can be particularly beneficial in climates with fluctuating humidity and temperature.
Lumber Plus offers Scandinavian thermally modified wood, which is engineered for performance. Thermally modified Ash and Clear Radiata are also available, providing options for different aesthetic preferences and performance characteristics. These materials can be used in various profiles, offering design flexibility for facade renovations.
Thermally modified wood can be a good option for those seeking a natural wood appearance with improved performance. It can be installed as part of a rainscreen assembly, which is a common and effective method for managing moisture in wall systems.
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Material Options: Maximo Accoya
Maximo Accoya is an acetylated wood product, distinct from thermally modified wood. Acetylation is a process that modifies wood at a molecular level, enhancing its dimensional stability and durability. This makes Accoya highly resistant to rot and insect attack.
Accoya's stability means it is less prone to shrinking and swelling with changes in humidity, which can be advantageous in maintaining consistent facade aesthetics and performance over time. It can be milled into various siding and cladding profiles, offering design versatility for renovation projects.
Consider Maximo Accoya for projects where long-term stability and resistance to environmental factors are primary concerns, especially for facades exposed to varying weather conditions.
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Material Options: Brazilian Hardwoods
Brazilian hardwoods like Ipe, Cumaru, Garapa, Angelim, Jatoba, and Tigerwood are known for their natural density, strength, and distinctive grain patterns. These woods offer a bold and impactful aesthetic, often developing a silver-gray patina over time if left untreated.
While naturally durable, Brazilian hardwoods require specific installation techniques due to their density. They can be a good choice for accent walls or areas where a robust and naturally resistant material is desired. However, their weight and hardness may require specialized tools for cutting and fastening.
These hardwoods are suitable for various cladding applications and can contribute to a striking facade appearance. It's important to understand their natural weathering process and plan for maintenance accordingly.
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Material Options: Norx Composite Cladding
Norx composite cladding offers an alternative to natural wood, providing a consistent appearance and often requiring less intensive maintenance. Composites are engineered from a blend of materials, designed for durability and resistance to rot, insects, and fading.
Norx composite cladding is available in various colors and profiles, allowing for modern and traditional facade designs. It can be a practical choice for homeowners seeking a low-maintenance exterior solution that mimics the look of wood without its specific upkeep requirements.
The consistent dimensions and finish of composite cladding can simplify installation. It is important to follow manufacturer guidelines for fastening and expansion to ensure proper performance. Norx composite cladding can be integrated into rainscreen systems for effective moisture management.
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Worked Example: Facade Renovation on a Milwaukee Bungalow
Consider a hypothetical 1920s Milwaukee bungalow measuring 30 feet wide by 40 feet deep, with an average wall height of 9 feet. The owner wants to replace deteriorating asbestos siding and improve the wall's thermal performance. The existing wall structure is wood framing with original plank sheathing. The primary concern is moisture management and creating a durable, low-maintenance exterior.
After careful inspection, areas of water damage near the foundation and window sills are identified. The plan involves removing the asbestos siding (by a certified professional), repairing damaged sheathing, installing new vapor-permeable house wrap, adding exterior rigid insulation, and then installing a rainscreen battens system. The chosen material is Norx composite cladding in a dark gray horizontal profile for the main body, with thermally modified Ayous for a vertical accent around the front entry.
For the main body, the bungalow's perimeter is (2 * 30 ft) + (2 * 40 ft) = 140 linear feet. With an average wall height of 9 feet, the total wall area is 140 ft * 9 ft = 1260 square feet. Allowing for window and door openings (estimated 150 sq ft) and waste factor (10%), the net cladding area is approximately 1110 sq ft. For the accent, a 10 ft wide by 9 ft high section is chosen, requiring 90 sq ft. This approach addresses both aesthetic goals and functional requirements for a robust, weather-resistant facade.
Before you order
- Assess existing wall conditions: identify substrate, insulation, and moisture issues.
- Determine budget and long-term maintenance expectations.
- Consider local climate factors: temperature swings, humidity, and precipitation.
- Evaluate aesthetic goals: desired look, texture, and color.
- Review material properties: stability, durability, and resistance to elements.
- Confirm compatibility with existing wall assembly and fastening methods.
- Plan for a rainscreen system to manage moisture effectively.
- Consult with a professional for installation and code compliance.
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 Milwaukee, WI. 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 a rainscreen assembly and why is it important for facade renovations?
A rainscreen assembly is a wall system designed to protect the building structure from moisture. It typically involves an outer layer of cladding, an air gap, and a weather-resistive barrier over the sheathing. The air gap allows for drainage and ventilation, preventing water from penetrating the wall and helping to dry out any moisture that gets behind the cladding. It's crucial for facade renovations, especially in climates like Milwaukee, WI, to manage moisture effectively and extend the lifespan of the wall system.
How does Milwaukee's climate influence siding and cladding choices?
Milwaukee experiences a range of weather conditions, including cold winters with snow and ice, and warm, humid summers. This variability means that siding and cladding materials should be chosen for their dimensional stability, resistance to moisture absorption, and ability to withstand freeze-thaw cycles. Materials like thermally modified wood and Maximo Accoya offer enhanced stability, while composite claddings provide robust resistance to environmental stressors. Proper installation, including a rainscreen system, is key to performance in this climate.
Do I need to remove existing siding before installing new cladding?
In most facade renovation projects, especially those involving significant upgrades to insulation or moisture management, removing the existing siding is recommended. This allows for a thorough inspection of the underlying structure, repair of any damage, and proper installation of new weather barriers and insulation. While some materials might allow for direct overlay, it's often a compromise that can hide existing problems and limit the effectiveness of new wall system components. Always consult with a qualified contractor and follow local building codes.
Request a Siding and Cladding Quote for Your Project
Ready to begin your facade renovation? Request a material quote by providing your project dimensions, desired profile, and ZIP code. We can help confirm current availability and service options for your location.
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