HardiePlank Siding Masonite Replacement Prevents Water/Insect Damage by Specialist Robert Green

www.alltexexteriors.com

Masonite Fails The Test of Time.

If you have a home that was built in the Houston, Texas area in the past 15-25 years, chances are good that the exterior is constructed of Masonite. A prevalent building material for siding homes, Louisiana Pacific Masonite was thought to be a top-notch and durable product. Years later we are seeing the unfortunate truth of what is now known as an inferior exterior material.

Here´s why: Think of particle board, another composite building material similar to Masonite. What happens when it get wet? It bubbles and warps. Masonite, like particle board, was not really designed well to withstand exterior elements such as water, insects, and high winds. Warped and curved planks let water seep in underneath. Even when edges are sealed, Masonite fails. There is not enough resin contained in the product to repel water; it actually soaks up water, accelerating rot!

As a result, homeowners are faced with the need to replace their exterior siding with something more durable and many of them turn to Hardie Siding. In fact, 80% of HardiePlank replacement siding is on homes covered in heavy water damage, molds, and bugs due to old Louisiana Pacific Masonite.

What Should I look for when choosing a new siding material?

Obviously homeowners want the exterior of their home to look attractive. Finding choices that are water and rot resistant over the long term is critical, especially in hot areas prone to mold. Hot, wet areas of the south have another concern: bugs. It´s important to find a product that will resist termites. Ideally, it will be made a substance bugs don´t even want to eat! Changing the exterior surface of your home can be a major improvement that extends the life of the building. Homeowners need to use materials that are durable and long-lasting. This is not a project you want to have to redo every decade or so!

Why HardiePlank Siding is a superior choice:

Hardie siding is actually plank siding constructed of cement, wood fibers, and silica. This gives it several advantages over the other siding options available.

• Won´t Rot Water is the primary cause of rot. Wood biodegrades when wet, requiring frequent sealing and high maintenance. Because Hardie is made of cement, it won´t deteriorate and rot when wet.

• Won´t Fly Texas experiences major storms such as Hurricanes Ike and Katrina. Vinyl siding will fly off in a wind storm; HardiePlank stays put.

• Won´t Burn Of course wood burns. Vinyl melts. Houses sided with HardiePlank are fire resistant and it´s a recommended building material in areas prone to fires.

In addition, Hardie materials are impact resistant. It won´t dent the next time you lean your ladder against it or something hits it during a violent storm. It comes primed, which helps it hold paint better, longer. Not only will you not need to replace your exterior siding for much longer, but you also won´t be spending time and money painting it as often.

Replacing the exterior surface on a home includes a detailed process that requires proper management. From the complete removal of the old materials, through the inspection process, installation of the vapor barrier and new siding, and the final prep and paint of the finished job, an experienced, on-site Construction Manager will help preserve your investment. For more information on where to find knowledgeable assistance, visit www.alltexexteriors.com or call 866-921-5715.