Thinking about replacing your siding? Our shou sugi ban siding cost guide will help you determine if this Japanese wood siding is within your budget.
What Is Composite T1-11 Siding Made Of?
Composite T1-11 is a wood-based siding with benefits and drawbacks to consider
Photo: timnewman / E+ / Getty Images
Photo: timnewman / E+ / Getty Images
Highlights
Composite T1-11 siding is a wood-based siding option with vertical grooves that mimic the look of natural wood.
Composite T1-11 comes in plywood and OSB forms, with plywood being more durable and moisture-resistant but more expensive than OSB.
While T1-11 siding is easy to install and customizable, it requires regular maintenance to prevent moisture damage and has a shorter lifespan compared to other siding materials like vinyl or fiber cement.
Get quotes from up to 3 pros!
Enter a zip below and get matched to top-rated pros near you.
Composite T1-11 siding is a popular wood-based exterior siding with a textured surface that mimics the look of natural wood grain. While it offers a classic, natural aesthetic at a relatively low cost, it comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks to consider.
So, what is composite T1-11 made of, and what are the advantages and disadvantages? In this guide, we’ll delve further into T1-11 siding to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your home.
What Is Composite T1-11 Siding?
Photo: Zen Rial / Moment / Getty Images
Composite T1-11 siding is a type of engineered wood siding made from either plywood or oriented strand board (OSB). T1-11 siding’s signature feature is its vertical grooves, which mimic the rustic look of other types of wood siding.
Panels are constructed by compressing layers of wood strands and bonding them with waterproof resins. The name "T1-11" comes from the product's original building material identification codes: “T1” refers to “Texture 1,” which indicates a specific type of wood surface treatment, while the “11” denotes the unique groove pattern that distinguishes it from other textured sidings.
The Pros and Cons of Composite T1-11 Siding
Check out the benefits and drawbacks of this type of siding to make an informed decision about your home’s exterior.
| Pros of Composite T1-11 Siding | Cons of Composite T1-11 Siding |
|---|---|
| Rustic, natural wood look | High-maintenance |
| Budget-friendly | Vulnerable to moisture |
| Easy to install | Not energy efficient |
| Customizable | Shorter lifespan |
Pros of Composite T1-11 Siding
On the positive side, T1-11 offers a rustic, natural wood look that brings welcoming warmth and charm to a home’s exterior. It's also budget-friendly and more affordable than other options like fiber cement, vinyl, or brick siding.
Plus, because it's lightweight, it’s easier to install than many other types of siding, which can save on labor costs for a local siding contractor or make for a more DIY-friendly installation. Another great feature is its customization potential, allowing you to easily paint or stain it to fit your home’s style.
Cons of Composite T1-11 Siding
On the flip side, T1-11 siding requires quite a bit of maintenance, as it needs regular sealing or painting to avoid moisture damage. If it’s not cared for properly, it can be susceptible to moisture issues, leading to problems like warping, rotting, or decay, especially in wetter climates.
This type of material is not particularly energy efficient, as it doesn’t have great insulation properties, which might result in heat loss. Lastly, compared to modern siding materials like vinyl or fiber cement, T1-11 has a shorter lifespan, meaning you may find yourself needing to replace it sooner.
Cost of Composite T1-11 Siding
The average cost of engineered wood sidings like T1-11 ranges anywhere from $4 to $13 per square foot, including materials and labor. Your cost will ultimately depend on the type of material used (plywood or OSB), as well as the style and quality. For the most accurate price quote, contact several siding contractors near you to compare costs.
Plywood vs. OSB Composite T1-11 Siding
The main difference between OSB and plywood is in the manufacturing process. Plywood is made from thin layers of wood veneer that are bonded together, while OSB is made from wood strands compressed with adhesives. Because of this, plywood has more of a natural wood grain look, whereas OSB’s grain pattern is less defined.
Plywood offers better resistance to moisture and warping, plus it’s more durable, but it typically comes at a higher cost. OSB is the more budget-friendly of the two siding options, but it tends to be more susceptible to swelling and warping when exposed to moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re wondering how to make wood siding last longer, including Composite T1-11, inspect it annually or quarterly to spot and repair cracks, holes, or chipped areas. You’ll also want to re-stain the wood every 3 to 5 years or repaint every 7 to 10 years for protection (note that repainting requires stripping and sanding off old paint as well). Lastly, keep up with regular cleanings using a garden hose or low-pressure power washer to help prevent grime and discoloration.
With the proper installation and care, T1-11 siding can last between 20 and 30 years or even longer. Actual lifespan will vary based on factors such as your area’s climate, how well the siding is maintained, and the quality of the installation. Hire a professional siding contractor to assess and install this type of siding to ensure the longevity of it.
The homeowners guide to siding services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
The cost to install shiplap siding or wall surfaces in your home depends on several factors, including the material type and the size of your project.
Learn about the average siding repair cost to expect based on siding type, repair type, and extra labor when getting estimates to fix siding from contractors.
New siding significantly increases home value. Learn about the cost of new siding and added value to see if this project is a good investment.
Knowing the differences between fiber cement and vinyl siding can help you choose the right one for your home. Our guide explores these two siding choices.
Choosing the right siding can boost your curb appeal and protect your home. Our guide explores 12 siding options to help you decide.