Wall Systems - Siding and Cladding Problems

Figure 1 - Siding on home

Siding and cladding defects and failures range from wide-scale deterioration of siding materials through to less destructive, but equally annoying, unsightly appearances.

Problems are generally the result of inadequate control of moisture or poor installation techniques.

This section of the guide provides the builder with a diagnosis of the most common siding problems and offers suggestions for reducing the likelihood or their recurrence.

Table 1 - Moisture-Related Factors Influencing Wall Systems
Area	Primary Consideration	Problem	Cause
Siding and Cladding Problems	Generic Problems	Water penetration through siding	Lack of a rain-screen wall / Incorrect installation of sheathing paper
		Premature deterioration	Condensation resulting from air leakage / Inadequate drying potential
		Siding deformation or displacement	Direct installation over semi-rigid insulation.
	Wood and Hardboard Siding	Water penetration through wood and hardboard siding	The presence of gaps in the siding and incorrect joint construction.
			Poor drainage of wall elements and inadequate drips at sills or joints.
		Premature deterioration	Condensation form air leakage and vapor diffusion on the back face of siding can lead to premature deterioration.
	Vinyl And Metal Siding	Water penetration	Poor detailing and construction of joints between siding strips at corners and around windows and doors.
			Incorrect detailing around windows and doors.
		Metal and vinyl siding deformation and displacement	Poor detailing to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction.
	Brick Veneer	Water penetration through the brick veneer	Improper flashing and counter-flashing installation
			Inability of the wall system to shed water or to drain water from cavities.
		Cracking of brick veneer	Inability of the cladding system to accommodate differential movement.
			Installation of bricks during cold or wet weather.
			Masonry veneer can bend and crack under wind pressures where adequate lateral support is not provided.
	Stucco	Moisture damage inside the wall assembly	Entry of rainwater and snow around penetrations
			Entry of rainwater and snow at the junction of different cladding materials.
			Entry of rainwater and snow through cracks in the stucco.
		Poor aesthetic finish of wall	Poor mixing of stucco

Figure 2 - Stucco on home

Continued.......