When it comes to updating the facade of your home, you may be wondering what your options are. Masonite siding is a popular choice for homeowners looking for a durable and low-maintenance exterior cladding solution. It’s a type of exterior cladding made from wood fibers and resin.
Masonite siding is available in various colors and finishes, making it a popular choice for homeowners. It’s also known as hardboard siding and has been around since the 19th century. Despite its long-standing reputation, it still manages to give your home a classic and welcoming facade.
But what is masonite siding, and what are the benefits of using it? How does it compete with newer types of siding? And is it only a short-term solution, or can it be a long-term investment as well?
This blog answers all of your questions about masonite siding! We will cover everything from what it is made of, what problems it faces, and how to install it. So if you are considering installing masonite siding on your home, read on!
What is Masonite Siding?
Masonite siding is made from wood fibers and resin. It was invented in the early 1900s, and it has been a popular choice for homeowners looking for an exterior cladding solution since then. Masonite siding is known for its durability and low maintenance. It’s made of wood fibers that undergo a heat and compression process.
It’s also known as hardboard sliding or pressboard siding (not a Hardie board). Hardboard is durable, weather-resistant, fireproof, rot-resistant, insect-proof, and impervious to moisture. It’s also easy to install and maintain.
On the flipside, masonite hardboard siding can be quite heavy, so that it may require additional framing or support. It does not insulate homes very well. Another disadvantage is that weather conditions like hail can easily damage it.
Types of Masonite Siding
There are three types of masonite siding:
- Regular Masonite Siding: This is the most common type of masonite siding. It comes in various colors and textures, and it’s available in both smooth and woodgrain finishes.
- Textured Masonite Siding: This type of masonite siding is made from a combination of wood fibers and resin. It’s available in smooth and woodgrain finishes, but it has a rougher texture than regular masonite siding.
- Painted Masonite Siding: This type of masonite siding is made from a combination of wood fibers and resin. It’s available in smooth and woodgrain finishes, but it has a rougher texture than regular masonite siding.
Pros of mason siding
There are several pros to using mason siding. If you’re looking for something durable and affordable, then Masonite could be the material for you.
Durability. First, it is a very durable material that can last for many years. It is also resistant to fire, moisture, and insects, making it a good choice for homes in areas that are prone to these types of problems.
The most significant benefit of masonite siding is its durability. It’s not uncommon for masonite siding to last up to 30 years or more. It’s also resistant to water damage, ideal for regions with high precipitation levels like the Pacific Northwest and New England states. Masonite is easy on the pocketbook, too; this type of material costs less than natural wood or stone cladding.
Affordability. Affordability is another big plus for masonite siding. It is less expensive than other sidings such as wood or stone. This makes it a popular choice for homeowners on a budget.
For comparison, a typical home with masonite siding will cost about $0.50 to $0.70 per square foot, while a home clad in natural wood may run you upwards of $12 per square foot.
The reason why mason sidings are so cheap is that they are manufactured products. Masonite is made out of wood fiber, then pressed and cut into panels. The panels are then coated with a resin that makes them water-resistant and fire retardant.
Masonite is also a lightweight material, making it easy and inexpensive to install. Many homeowners do the installation themselves with no problems.
Color and Design Options. Masonite also offers a wide range of color and design options. You can find panels in a variety of colors, including neutrals like beige and tan, as well as bolder shades like green and blue. You can find one that will match your home’s exterior.
And if you can’t find the color you want, it’s also possible to order custom panels. In terms of design, hardboard siding products come in several styles, including board-and-batten, shingled lap, or clapboard. Mason siding can also be painted any color you choose, allowing you to customize your home’s exterior.
Installation and Maintenance. Masonite siding is easy to install and maintain. There’s no need for painting since it’s already treated with a protective coating layer that prevents fading over time.
And unlike natural wood siding, which must be painted and sealed every few years, masonite siding only needs to be washed occasionally to keep it looking good. It is also easy to maintain: a quick sweep or wash with a hose is all you need to keep it looking good year after year. Remember to avoid using a power washer, as this can damage the finish.
So, what are you waiting for? Consider Masonite if you’re in the market for durable and affordable siding material. It has all the benefits of other sidings but comes at a fraction of the cost. Give it a try today!
Cons of Masonite Siding
There’re many positive things to say about mason siding, and it’s not without its drawbacks. Here are some of the lesser-known cons that might put you off if you’re finding a siding for your home project.
Not as durable compared to other sidings. One of the main downsides to masonite siding is that it’s not as durable as other types of sidings, such as wood or stone. Masonite is a manufactured product, so it’s not as strong as natural materials. It can also dent and scratch more quickly than other types of sidings.
If you live in an area with high winds or heavy rain, it might not be the best choice for your home. And if you have children and pets running around outside, they could easily damage the siding. It also won’t last as long as other types of sidings, so you’ll need to replace it or partake in some costly remodeling.
Susceptible to moisture damage. Masonite siding is made of wood fiber, making it more susceptible to water damage than other types of sidings. While Masonite has some resistance against rain and snow, if left unprotected for too long, the wood will rot from within.
This means that you’ll need to take extra care when installing and maintaining your masonite siding. Make sure it’s properly sealed and protected from the elements, and keep an eye out for any signs of moisture damage so you can address them quickly.
May fade in direct sunlight. Another potential downside to Masonite is that it can fade over time. The color may start to look dull and fade after prolonged exposure to the sun, especially if you live in a sunny area.
This isn’t necessarily bad; some people prefer their siding to have that weathered look. But it’s something to consider if you want your masonite corporation to look its best for as long as possible.
Poor insulation. Masonite does not have the same thermal properties as natural wood, so it can’t absorb and release heat the same way a tree would. As such, your home will be more susceptible to temperature fluctuations if you choose this material for your exterior walls.
This means that your home may be less comfortable to live in during the winter months, and you could see an increase in your energy bills as a result. If insulation is important to you, then Masonite might not be the best choice for your exterior siding. If you live in a cold climate, this may be a consideration when making your home improvement decisions.
Environmental footprint. You also have to consider the environmental impact of using masonite siding on your home. The manufacturing process creates pollution, and if any of the panels break down over time, they will release toxins into landfills where they won’t biodegrade easily or quickly enough before contaminating groundwater supplies nearby (which is especially bad news if you live in a drought-prone area).
Susceptibility to fire. Finally, Masonite is not as fire-resistant as other types of sidings. If your home goes up in flames, the masonite panels are more likely to ignite and spread the fire than other materials. You’ll want to take extra precautions if the fire is a concern in your area or you live near other houses that could catch fire and spread.
So, while there are some definite pros to using masonite siding, some cons might give you pause. Masonite siding is nevertheless a great alternative to other sidings like wood or stone. It’s affordable, durable, and easy to maintain.
Plus, it comes in a wide range of colors and styles so that you can find the perfect one for your home. Just remember to consider the cons listed above before making your final decision. Thanks for reading!
Common problems with Masonite (and how to solve them)
Masonite siding can be an excellent choice for your home – but like with any other material, there can be some common problems that arise. Here are a few tips on how to deal with some of the most common issues:
Moisture damage
One of the main problems with masonite siding is its susceptibility to moisture damage. If you live in an area that gets a lot of rain or snow, make sure to take extra care when installing and maintaining your siding. Make sure it’s properly sealed and protected from the elements, and keep an eye out for any signs of moisture damage so you can address them quickly.
Fading
Masonite may also fade over time due to prolonged exposure to the sun. If you want your siding to look its best for as long as possible, be sure that it’s properly sealed and protected from UV rays with an appropriate coating before installation.
Warping
Masonite can also warp over time if it’s not properly sealed or protected from the elements. Again, make sure to take all necessary precautions during installation, and keep an eye out for any signs of warping so you can address them as soon as possible.
Insects and pests
Masonite is also a popular target for insects and pests, so be sure to take extra precautions against them during installation. You can use a good-quality sealant or insecticide to help keep them at bay.
Blistering and bubbling
Blistering and bubbling are also common problems with masonite siding. If you notice these issues, it’s essential to address them as soon as possible before they cause any further damage. You can try to fix the problem yourself by using a heat gun to heat up the affected area and release the air bubbles, or you can hire a professional to do it for you.
Mold and mildew
Mold and mildew can also be a problem with masonite siding, especially in humid climates. If you notice any signs of mold or mildew, be sure to address them as soon as possible. You can try to remove the mold and mildew yourself by using a bleach solution.
If you choose to use a bleach solution, be sure not to over-concentrate it. You run the risk of damaging the siding or causing discoloration if you do so.
If these methods don’t work, it’s best to hire a professional to deal with the problem – they’ll have access to more powerful tools that can remove mold and mildew without damaging your siding in any way. You may also want to consider installing gutter guards on your home to help prevent mold and mildew from forming in the first place.
These are just a few of the most common problems with masonite siding, but they can be easily avoided with proper care and maintenance. For more information on properly installing and maintaining your masonite siding, be sure to consult with a professional contractor.
Masonite siding versus other types of siding materials
Masonite offers various benefits that make it comparable to some of our best-selling products on the market today. It offers many of the same advantages, but here are top qualities that make it a competitive material for your home’s facade:
- It’s 100% recyclable! Masonite is great due to its environmentally friendly construction, which means less waste in landfills! A lesser quality wood type will emit toxic chemicals into the air when burnt (that you would then breathe). At the same time, Masonite provides a safe alternative by not contaminating any surrounding areas with dangerous fumes.
- It’s durable! With proper care and maintenance, your siding will last many years without needing replacement or repair costs – saving money down the road for you as homeowners. Homeowners choose masonite siding, but the amount of maintenance required is significantly lower than other materials on the market.
- It’s easy to clean! The smooth surface of Masonite makes it much easier than other siding materials when it comes time for maintenance. You won’t have any cracks or crevices where dirt can accumulate, which means that cleaning up this type of product should be simple too!
Masonite is priced competitively with vinyl and fiber cement sidings but offers more benefits than either of those products. If you’re looking for a product that is durable, environmentally friendly, and low-maintenance, then Masonite siding may be the perfect choice for your home!
Masonite vs metal siding
Masonite siding is a popular choice for homes because it is affordable and comes in various styles. However, some homeowners may be wondering if Masonite is a good choice compared to metal siding.
If you are looking for a masonite siding alternative that provides better protection against moisture damage, metal siding may be the right choice. However, if you need to keep costs low or prefer the look of Masonite over metal, then Masonite is still an excellent choice. Metal siding also requires regular maintenance and can dent easily when hit by hail or other objects, while Masonite is less likely to suffer from these types of damage.
Masonite vs vinyl siding
Vinyl siding is a type of plastic siding that has become popular in the United States since the early 1990s. Vinyl siding is made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a flexible plastic that can be extruded into different shapes. Vinyl siding is available in various colors and styles, and it is often more affordable than other types of siding.
In terms of durability, vinyl siding is usually more resistant to weathering and fading than other types of siding. However, it can also be more susceptible to scratches and dents. Vinyl siding is also non-combustible, making it a safer choice in areas prone to fires.
That being said, vinyl siding can be harder to install compared to Masonite. It is also less environmentally friendly, as it contains PVC, a non-renewable resource. Finally, vinyl may not be much of a good upgrade if your home already has masonite sidings installed.
Masonite vs. fiber cement siding
When it comes to comparing Masonite versus fiber cement, there are a few things to consider. First, fiber cement is a more durable option than Masonite, and it is also resistant to moisture damage. However, fiber cement can be more expensive than Masonite challenging to install.
Second, Masonite comes in various styles and colors, while fiber cement is typically available in a few standard colors. This may make Masonite a more appealing option for some homeowners.
Finally, fiber cement is more environmentally friendly than Masonite, made from recycled materials. However, Masonite is still a relatively sustainable choice, as it is made from natural wood fibers.
Is Masonite siding a good investment for my home improvement project?
Masonite siding is a good investment for a siding project if you are looking for a durable and low-maintenance option. Masonite siding is made from hardboard, making it resistant to moisture and insects. In addition, Masonite siding does not require painting, and it will not fade or chip over time.
If you are interested in installing masonite siding on your home, be sure to hire a qualified contractor. Masonite siding is not a DIY project, and it requires special tools and skills to install correctly. A professional contractor will ensure that your masonite siding is installed correctly and that it meets all of your needs and specifications.
If you are considering masonite siding for your home, carefully weigh the pros and cons. Masonite siding is an excellent option if you are looking for durability and low maintenance, but it can be expensive compared to other types of siding. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what is important to you and your budget.
How long will it last before needing to be replaced again?
Masonite siding is a durable and low-maintenance option, and it will typically last for up to 20 years before needing to be replaced again. Other factors such as climate and weather can affect how long it lasts, so be sure to keep an eye on your siding.
You’ll know it needs replacing when you start seeing signs of wear and tear on the siding, such as cracks and wood chips. You may also see the siding buckles or warp, which indicates that it needs to be replaced.
How much does Masonite siding cost?
The cost of masonite siding is one of the main reasons it’s so popular. It can be installed for as little as $150 per square foot, which means that a typical home with an average size roof would only need to pay about $3000 in total.
Installing masonite siding will also depend on whether you choose to do the work yourself or hire a professional installer. The average cost is $0.75 to $0.80 per square foot, but it can vary depending on the type of siding you choose and the area where you live:
- Regular Masonite Siding: $0.60 per square foot, installed
- Textured Masonite Siding: $0.75 per square foot, installed
- Painted Masonite Siding: $0.80 per square foot, installed
The cost of masonite siding can be broken down into three main components:
- Material Prices: The price of the materials is determined by the size and type of material used. For example, a piece that’s 50 square feet will cost more than one that’s 30 square feet.
- Installation Costs: The cost of installing the siding will depend on whether you hire a contractor or do it yourself. If you want to install the siding yourself, you’ll need to buy some tools (e.g., saws, drills) and learn how to use them properly. You might also have to rent scaffolding if your home is more than one story high.
- Removal Costs: If you’re replacing old siding with masonite siding, then you’ll have to pay for the removal of the old material. This can cost anywhere from $0.50 to $0.75 per square foot, depending on the type of material being removed.
How do you install Masonite siding?
The first step in installing masonite siding is to measure your home and draw a diagram of it on graph paper. Once you have drawn the diagram, you can use this as a guide when you start cutting the pieces of siding. You’ll also need to decide where you want the seams to be.
The next step is to cut the pieces of siding to size. You can use a jigsaw or circular saw for this, but make sure that you use a blade that’s specifically designed for cutting wood fiber materials. Be careful not to cut yourself!
Once the pieces are cut to size, you’ll need to install them. You can do this by yourself or with a partner. If you’re doing it yourself, ensure that you use proper safety equipment (e.g., gloves, goggles, respirator).
- The first step is to attach the bottom piece of the siding. This is the piece that will be attached to the bottom of your home. You can do this by using either nails or screws.
- Next, you need to attach the pieces of siding that run along the sides of your home. Again, you can use nails or screws to do this. Be careful not to put them too close to the edges, or they might get damaged when you’re installing the top piece of siding.
- The last step is to install the top piece of siding. Make sure that you measure it carefully before cutting it to fit perfectly.
- Once everything is installed, the final step is to paint the siding. You can use any paint you want, but we recommend using exterior-grade acrylic latex paint with a satin or semi-gloss finish.
What are the installation requirements for Masonite sidings?
If you plan to have your masonite siding installed by a professional, you’ll need to make sure that your home is ready for installation. The installation crew will need access to the walls of your home, so make sure that no wires or pipes are running along the walls. They’ll also need a solid surface to install the siding onto – if your home has vinyl siding installed, for example, you’ll need to remove it before installing masonite sidings.
Conclusion
Masonite sidings are an excellent option for those looking to update the look of their home. They’re affordable, durable, and easy to install. If you’re thinking about installing Masonite sidings on your home, make sure that you read through this article first – it will tell you everything you need to know about the installation process and what you need to do to prepare your home for the installation.
If you need help with your home facade, Elysian Construction’s got your back (or front). Our professional Siding Contractors are some of the best in the business, and we’re proud to offer a variety of siding options for your home, including Masonite sidings. Check out our Siding Examples to learn more about our services!