CHAPTER 4
EXTERIOR FINISH OF WALLS
In this chapter, we’ll continue our discussion of
exterior finishing. In chapter 3, we covered roof
finishing; here, we’ll examine the exterior finishing of
walls, including exterior doors, windows, and glass.
EXTERIOR WALL COVERINGS
LEARNING OBJECTIVE: Upon completing this
section, you should be able to identify the types of
exterior wall coverings and describe procedures for
installing siding.
Because siding and other types of exterior wall
covering affect the appearance and the maintenance
of a structure, the material and pattern should be
selected carefully. Wood siding can be obtained in
many different patterns and can be finished
naturally, stained, or painted. Wood shingles,
plywood, wood siding (paneling), fiberboard, and
hardboard are some of the types of material used as
exterior coverings. Masonry, veneers, metal or plastic
siding, and other nonwood materials are additional
choices. Many prefinished sidings are available, and
the coatings and films applied to several types of base
materials may eliminate the need of refinishing for
many years.
WOOD SIDING
One of the materials most used for structure
exteriors is wood siding. The essential properties
required for siding are good painting characteristics,
easy working qualities, and freedom from warp. Such
properties are present to a high degree in cedar,
eastern white pine, sugar pine, western white pine,
cypress, and redwood; to a good degree in western
hemlock, spruce, and yellow popular; and to a fair
degree in Douglas fir and yellow pine.
Material
The material used for exterior siding that is to be
painted should be of a high grade and free from
knots, pitch. pockets, and uneven edges. Vertical
grain and mixed grain (both vertical and flat) are
available in some species, such as redwood and
western red cedar. The moisture content at the time
of application should be the same as what it will
attain in service. To minimize seasonal movement
due to changes in moisture content, choose vertical-
grain (edge-grain) siding. While this is not as
important for a stained finish, the use of edge-grain
siding for a paint finish will result in longer paint
life. A 3-minute dip in a water-repellent preservative
before siding is installed will result in longer paint
life and resist moisture entry and decay. Some
manufacturers supply siding with this treatment.
Freshly cut ends should be brush-treated on the job.
Patterns
Some wood siding patterns are used only hori-
zontally and others only vertically. Some may be used
in either manner if adequate nailing areas are
provided. A description of each of the general types of
horizontal siding follows.
PLAIN BEVEL.— Plain bevel siding (fig. 4-1) can
be obtained in sizes from 1/2 by 4 inches to 1/2 by
Figure 4-1.-Types of wood siding.
4-1
