On Sun, 17 Aug 2008 21:35:27 -0400, "Colbyt"
wrote:


"Paulaner" wrote in message
.. .
Here in Maryland I have a 1700 ft2 1977 rancher that needs new siding.
We have decided to use pre-stained cedar shakes on the front of the
house (which is also about 40% recycled brick). We are thinking
about using hardiplank on the sides (~26') and back (~72').

Picture of front: http://mysite.verizon.net/paulaner/139.JPG

We currently have 3/8" pressboard siding panels (?), and behind that
is light blue rigid foam labeled "Total Wall Insulation Systems". The
foam is about 5/8" thick for a total thickness of 1". The windows and
doorframes extend about 1" out from the current exterior wall.

Picture of window frame: http://mysite.verizon.net/paulaner/011.JPG

The old pressboard siding has quite a few soft spots in various edges
and personally I think it should be removed before we start the new
siding. I don't want to spend extra money if it's not needed, but I
want to make sure we have a quality job that we don't have to worry
about 20+ years from now. Additionally I want to be certain that I
don't lose any insulation, and would be happy to improve that where
possible.

We are hearing different options from the contractors that have bid
the job. One wants to pull the old siding and foam out, install OSB
and tyvek, then cedar shakes or hardiplank. One says they can nail
the new shakes / hardiplank to the existing pressboard, patching any
soft areas as they go.

I'm a reasonably adept (inside the house) DIY guy. What I am thinking
is to remove the pressboard panels, leave the blue foam installation,
nail up ½" OSB, staple the recommended felt and then nail the cedar
shakes. Depending on the about of time that takes, I may pay someone
to do the hardiplank the same way.

What would you do?

Any recomendations are appreciated. Thanks.


Your plan sounds like the way I would do it.

Just make sure you won't encounter and problems around window and door
projections.

Also keep in mind that any siding job is only as good as the window and door
flashing that is under it. Caulk is NEVER a substitute for the proper
flashing.


Colbyt


Thanks Colbyt, great point. Looks like one window didn't have the
right flashing, and carpenter ants found the moist wood inside the
vinyl wrapped sill. Every job has it's tangents. Looks like I get to
redo at least one window now.

Paulaner