Masonite Siding: Cheap but not Maintenance Free

Tongue and groove masonite hardboard siding requires substantial maintenance, but remains a very commonly used type of siding in spite of that, especially in relatively dry climates. The siding is referred to as "hardboard" and is made of wood fibers and glue or resin which holds the fibers together. Depending on the desired effect, it can be installed with the grooves lined vertically or horizontally. request cost quote >>

Masonite has the look of wood but is stronger and more flexible. It comes in a variety of colors, or you can paint it yourself to create the desired effect. It will usually hold up about 5 or 6 years if properly treated and installed. After that, the color begins to fade and the product itself begins to swell around the nails creating openings for bugs and moisture.

While problems with masonite have been reported, it actually will work quite well if treated properly. It usually comes spray painted on the outer side. However, before installing it, you should paint it on the inside as well, being especially careful to coat the bottom edge and the first two feet up from the ground with a couple of extra layers of primer or paint. This extra painting is almost never done when masonite is installed by a professional, simply because it takes extra time, and time is money. To save cost paint it yourself, then have the professional complete the installation.

Several other precautions in addition to painting need to be observed to get the longest use out of masonite siding. The nails should be driven flush rather than countersunk as countersinking the nail head breaks the hardboard fibers and creates an opening for rot and mildew. The bottom panels should be six inches off of the ground, and any cut edges created during installation must be painted or caulked.

To prevent moisture problems, the siding cannot be airtight. When overlapping wood shingles are used, a natural airspace is created, but amateurs often neglect to allow for internal moisture when installing masonite siding. If exterior walls are unable to "breath," moisture builds, and soon the siding is rotting from the inside out.

To enhance the life of your masonite siding once it has been installed, it's a good idea to give it a coat of paint in about 3 to 4 yearsbefore it has gotten to the point where it obviously needs serious attention. Eventually, the siding will have be replaced no matter how well you maintain it, but you should be able to get enough life out of it to be worth the reduced cost.

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