Check Out Our FREE GUIDE: 25 Must-Have Carpentry Tools...Under $25 Each!
https://www.thehonestcarpenter.com/

AFFILIATE TOOL LINKS (SIDING TOOLS):
Freeman 15 Degree 2-12" Siding Nailer:
https://amzn.to/3hNVWQl
Dewalt Heavy Quiet Compressor:
https://amzn.to/3bebITJ
Makita 7-1/4 Circular Saw:
https://amzn.to/3bTcRz3
Stanley Tape Measure:
https://amzn.to/3qcjYYk

These are affiliate links. When you shop through these links, we receive a small commission at NO EXTRA CHARGE TO YOU. We greatly appreciate the support!

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:
  / thehonestcarpenter  
FOLLOW US ON LINKEDIN:
  / thehonestcarpenter  

IS THIS THE WORST BUILDING MATERIAL EVER?! (How To Identify/Address--MASONITE SIDING/HARDBOARD/PRESSBOARD)

Masonite siding flew onto houses around the country in the 1980's and 90's. It was cheap, easy to install, and easy to paint...and it became a ticking time bomb in the construction industry! This short video from The Honest Carpenter will explain the problems with Masonite siding, and how to possibly address them.

The problem with Masonite siding as a building material is that it is only comprised of wood fiber and glues/resins pressed together under heat and pressure.

These components are not waterproof. The building material relies on its painted surface to keep water out. However, edges and ends, as well as nail holes, are a water penetration source.

As water gets into the material, it begins to saturate the wood fiber layers. Soon, rot and deterioration begin, and it can never be reversed.

The even bigger issue is when saturated Masonite siding holds water for a long time, and eventually transfers it back into sheathing and framing. Here, it becomes a further breeding ground for rot and even termite infestation.

Masonite siding was effectively banned in the mid-nineties, but the product has continued to find its way onto shelves under different names: "tempered hardboard" and "pressboard"

These products really shouldn't be used on the exterior of a house!

Hardie plank cement fiberboard is a far better alternative, as well as PVC trim boards.

Masonite siding often fails on the lower 3 feet of a house. So, replacing just these lower courses with hardie plank can be a very good alternative to recladding your house.

Have questions about Masonite siding or other home materials?

Be sure to visit us at The Honest Carpenter website:
https://thehonestcarpenter.com/

We help homeowners nationwide get their most important home-related questions answered by a trade expert.

Thanks for watching the video!