Vinyl Siding over Failing Cedar
The FHB podcast team troubleshoots an issue with failing cedar siding and discusses the installation of vinyl on top.
In this clip from Podcast Episode 140, the Fine Homebuilding crew responds to this question from a listener:
“I live in a home that was built in 1984. I’m going to install vinyl siding on the house because the existing western red cedar is becoming too much to maintain and keep looking good. The existing home is 2×6 framed walls with R-19 batt insulation. The sheathing is 1-in. Rmax with metal strapping used across to brace the corners, providing lateral support. On top of the Rmax is 1×8 tongue-and-groove cedar. There is no rainscreen behind the cedar and neither is the Rmax taped at the seams or sealed at the bottom or top plates. I’ve encountered some shrinkage of the cedar over the years, but cupping is very minimal. The finish has deteriorated and is now peeling. Since I plan on applying vinyl over the existing cedar, would it be best to apply a housewrap over the cedar? Also from an insulation standpoint, is the insulated vinyl worth the extra cost?”
Watch now to hear what FHB editors Patrick McCombe, Rob Wotzak, and Matt Millham have to say, including:
- Why the lack of rainscreen is a big contributor to this problem
- Why adding more layers without addressing the root issues of a retrofit is not the right solution
- Opinions on the permeability of vinyl siding
- A recommendation to check out Martin Holladay’s Backyard Tape Test
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