Siding Material Options
Vinyl siding is the most widely used residential siding material due to low cost and minimal maintenance. Fiber cement siding has gained significant market share due to durability, fire resistance, and ability to replicate wood and masonry. The material is composed of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, weighing approximately 2.5 psf.
Wood siding remains a premium choice for traditional homes. Cedar and redwood are preferred for natural decay resistance. Wood siding requires painting or staining every 3 to 7 years.
Weather-Resistive Barrier
Behind the siding, building paper or house wrap provides a secondary defense against moisture. The barrier must be lapped shingle-fashion starting at the bottom. Minimum lap is 2 inches for horizontal laps and 6 inches for vertical joints. truss geometry and member sizes. corner bead protects outside corners. house wrap with drainage channels. House wraps with drainage channels create a capillary break allowing moisture to drain downward.
Flashing Requirements
Flashing directs water away from vulnerable areas where siding meets windows, doors, corners, and roof intersections. Head flashing above windows and doors directs water over openings. Z-flashing at horizontal joints prevents water penetration. The flashing sequence must follow the shingle lap principle.