IS THIS THE WORST BUILDING MATERIAL EVER?! (How To Identify/Address--MASONITE SIDING/HARDBOARD)

Summary

In this video, Ethan James from The Honest Carpenter discusses the significant issues surrounding masonite siding, a widely used material in the 80s and 90s that has led to extensive property damage. He explains its composition, how to identify it, and the long-term problems it can cause, including rot and pest infestations. Despite being removed from the market, similar products still persist under different names. Ethan advises homeowners to inspect their properties and consider durable alternatives like cement fiberboard and PVC, while emphasizing the importance of professional consultations for repairs and renovations.

Takeaways

• 😟 Masonite siding, widely used in the 80s and 90s, is considered one of the worst building materials due to its propensity for rot and damage.
• 🏡 The rapid construction boom in the southeastern United States during this period led to widespread use of subpar materials like masonite siding.
• 💰 Masonite siding was initially popular because it was inexpensive and easy to install, but it became a major liability over time.
• 🌧️ Problems with masonite siding typically emerged 8 to 10 years after installation, particularly at the lower sections of homes exposed to moisture.
• 🦠 Saturated masonite siding often became a breeding ground for termites, leading to significant structural damage.
• ⚖️ Class action lawsuits were filed against masonite manufacturers in the mid-90s, resulting in reimbursements and the product being pulled from shelves.
• 🛠️ Even decades later, masonite siding can still be found in homes under different names like tempered hardboard or press board.
• 🔍 Identifying masonite siding involves checking for a broomed appearance and dark brown color at the ends of the boards.
• 🏗️ For exterior applications, cement fiberboard and PVC are recommended as safer alternatives to masonite siding.
• 💪 Despite the issues with masonite, not all of it needs immediate replacement; often, only the lower sections require remediation.

Q & A

What is Masonite siding and why was it popular in the 80s and 90s?

Masonite siding is a wood byproduct made from shredded wood fibers, glue, and resin, pressed under high temperatures. It was popular in the 80s and 90s due to its low cost, ease of installation, and lightweight nature, making it attractive to contractors during a housing boom.

What problems arose with Masonite siding after it was installed?

Major issues began to surface around the 8 to 10-year mark, primarily in the lower courses of siding. The material would rot, bloat, and deteriorate, especially due to exposure to groundwater and rain splash.

How did Masonite siding contribute to termite infestations?

Saturated Masonite siding created a conducive environment for termites to thrive. The material retained moisture, allowing termites to access the framing and sheathing, leading to severe structural damage.

What was the response to the problems associated with Masonite siding?

Homeowners and lawyers initiated several class action lawsuits due to the material's failures, leading to reimbursements and the product being removed from lumber yards by the mid-90s.

What alternatives emerged after the decline of Masonite siding?

After Masonite was pulled from the market, cement fiberboard, like Hardy Plank siding, became popular as a more durable and long-lasting exterior option.

Why is Masonite siding still found in homes decades later?

Despite being banned, Masonite and similar products continued to be distributed under different names, such as tempered hardboard or press board, leading to ongoing issues with older homes.

How can homeowners identify Masonite siding or its variants?

Homeowners can identify Masonite siding by looking for a broomed appearance on the edges, light to dark brown color inside, and signs of rot or bloating. Checking the lower three courses of siding and trim boards is crucial.

What are the recommended exterior materials for new siding projects?

PVC and cement fiberboard are currently considered the best exterior options, offering durability and resistance to the issues seen with Masonite.

What steps can be taken if a home has Masonite siding?

Homeowners should inspect the lower siding and trim for damage. In many cases, replacing just the lower three feet of siding may suffice, as higher areas may remain intact. Repairs can often be done using Hardy Plank to match the old styles.

What is the overall opinion of Masonite siding expressed in the video?

The presenter asserts that Masonite siding is the worst building material ever used in American homes, citing its long-term failures and extensive property damage.