Clapboard Siding Maintenance

Minor damage next look for more subtle telltale signs of deterioration problems such as discoloration rusted nails.

Clapboard siding maintenance.

Compared to today s vinyl siding wooden clapboards are high maintenance. Pay special attention to siding located near the ground and at junctures where the siding meets other building materials. Your climate and landscape will determine how often these processes are required. It s easier to replace a few damaged clapboards than to backpedal after your siding has begun to rot from moisture exposure.

The paint that covers your siding is the most important part of protecting your clapboard siding from rain snow and the heat of the sun. Caulk the end joint and prime the front of each clapboard image 3. Choosing the right sealer. If you have mold and mildew problems you can use some bleach.

If you find damaged areas in your paint scrape them off then sand the edges smooth. If you d like to avoid repairs that could cost thousands of dollars and you d like to keep your clapboard shingles or board and batten lasting for decades regular upkeep and maintenance is critical. The paint or stain coating the wood must be. It s best to hire a siding company or a carpenter to replace the broken sections.

Wood siding is one of the most beautiful of all types of siding and one of the most expensive. Allow the primer to dry and you re ready for the final coat of paint. Power wash every two to four years. Inspect your home regularly to make sure the paint isn t cracking blistering or peeling.

A mild non phosphate detergent is recommended. Paint and prime the siding after the first course of siding is up image 1 you can start adding the rest slipping them under the courses above and nailing in place image 2. Genuine cedar siding is going to require washing and staining sealing or painting on a regular basis. You need to check the clapboard siding routinely for cracked or broken boards.

It acts as a protective barrier. A more environmentally friendly option is vinegar which is also effective in cleaning mold.