Best siding pros near Jack, AL

You cannot install clapboard siding on a bare, unprepared surface. Clapboard siding requires a clean, sturdy base made from plywood or similar materials, sometimes called backerboard. Then, it needs an underlayment or sheathing, a moisture membrane to help protect the exterior wall.

Note that sometimes clapboard siding is caulked as it’s installed for additional protection. We don’t suggest this: Caulking the siding can trap moisture inside the clapboards and lead to moisture damage over time. The siding needs some space to “breathe,” especially in rainy weather.

The clapboard exposure, also called the reveal, refers to the amount of clapboard visible in the siding. Clapboards always overlap slightly, but some overlap more than others. The exposure is the vertical measurement of the board that remains visible as the clapboard is installed.

When repairing clapboard siding, it’s important that you match the exposure of your current clapboards. You may want to take a measurement of the specific exposure on your siding for reference in repairs.

The telltale signs that your home is ready for repointing include visibly damaged bricks, crumbling bricks, flaking bricks, loose mortar, cracked mortar, gaps between brick and mortar, leaking inside your home, and visible water damage. Consider repointing when going over brick house pros and cons if you're buying a new home. Repointing is also a good idea if you plan to paint, acid wash, or stain your brick home, as it will give you a good base for coloration and prevent repairs after the work is done.

Professional installers typically recommend caulking between siding boards, but it depends on the material. With Hardie board and fiber cement siding, manufacturers don't recommend adding caulk because it can trap moisture in the joints or discourage flexibility in fluctuating temperatures. Consult your local siding contractor about caulking best practices before adding any to your home’s exterior.