Home Siding – More than Just a Pretty Facade.
During last season’s rain, a small section of your siding fell off your house. To make it through the rest of the season and the summer, you taped a piece of plastic over the opening. Now it’s raining again and you are concerned about it.
Having inadequate or unstable siding can cause more damage than you may think.
Table of Contents
- Understanding the Anatomy of an Exterior Wall
- Water Intrusion
- Moisture Buildup and Mold
- Increased Heating/Cooling Costs
- House Paper & the Shear Wall is Not Enough
- Conclusion
Understanding the Anatomy of an Exterior Wall
An exterior wall consists of several key components working together to provide structural stability and weather protection. Typically in residential construction, wooden studs form the framework of the wall. These studs are strategically connected to a shear wall, often made of plywood or OSB (oriented strand board), which enhances the wall’s resistance to lateral forces like wind and earthquakes. The shear wall runs parallel to the interior drywall. Over the shear wall, a waterproof house paper or building wrap is applied, serving as a moisture barrier. Finally, the exterior siding material is attached to complete the wall. Every component of the wall is essential.
Water Intrusion
House siding is the first line of defense against rain and moisture. Siding is tightly sealed, and the overlapping design prevents water from penetrating the exterior walls. Furthermore, the siding material itself, whether it’s vinyl, wood, stucco, or another type, is chosen for its ability to resist water absorption. By effectively shedding water away from the structure and providing a protective shield, siding helps maintain the structural integrity of your home and prevents issues like rot, mold, and water damage that can result from prolonged exposure to moisture.
Moisture Buildup and Mold
When moisture infiltrates the wall cavity through compromised siding, it creates a damp environment that provides the ideal conditions for mold spores to thrive. Over time, this can lead to unsightly and potentially hazardous mold infestations that not only compromise the structural integrity of your home but also pose health risks to the occupants. Once mold develops in your walls it can travel to your insulation, creating an unhealthy and costly repair.
Increased Heating/Cooling Costs
Siding acts as a protective barrier that insulates your home from external temperature extremes. When siding is damaged, worn, or improperly installed, it can allow outside air to infiltrate your home, causing temperature fluctuations inside. During hot summers, warm air can seep in, forcing your cooling system to work harder to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. Conversely, in the winter, cold air infiltration forces your heating system to run more frequently. These continuous temperature adjustments put extra strain on your HVAC system, resulting in increased energy consumption and higher utility bills.
House Paper & the Shear Wall is Not Enough
The shear wall, typically made of plywood or oriented strand board (OSB), provides structural support and stability to your house. It helps distribute the forces that act upon the structure, such as wind, seismic activity, and other external pressures. Siding protects the shear wall, ensuring that it remains structurally sound and resistant to damage. Without proper siding, the shear wall becomes vulnerable to degradation, compromising the structural integrity of your home. The shear wall is not designed to protect your home from the elements.
Conclusion
If your siding is damaged, or you have seen an increase in your utility bills, or you have noticed water intrusion, contact Rogall + Co. to understand more about the cause of your home’s symptoms. Repair and replace your siding immediately to avoid costly, dangerous, or unhealthy conditions.
