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Traditionally, you place a layer of ⅜-inch foam board beneath aluminum siding. This gives you a smooth surface to which you can fasten the trim and siding. Beneath the foam board, you should have some kind of waterproof sheathing to further protect your home from water damage. It’s possible this sheathing is already under your current siding.

You may only need to repaint fiber cement siding every decade or so, but you should clean it every six to 12 months, depending on your local climate. First, wash with a garden hose or similar low-pressure device (not a high-pressure washer, which can damage the material) to remove dirt and any large debris. Then, gently wipe down the surface with a soft brush or cloth in a side-to-side motion, following the grain of the fiber cement.

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.

You should plan to stain or refinish your home's cedar siding every three to seven years to maintain its appearance and provide maximum protection, though some estimates suggest a range of four to six years. The exact frequency depends on several factors, including your local climate, exposure to severe weather like direct sunlight, rain, and wind, the quality of the initial stain application, the type of stain used, and the overall condition and quality of the wood.

For homes in harsh climates with high humidity and significant sun exposure, you should plan on staining as often as every three years, while those in milder locations may only need to do so every seven years. For the longest-lasting protection in particularly harsh climates, consider using an opaque stain.

If you are looking for a lower-maintenance alternative, you might consider vinyl or aluminum siding. While the initial installation cost can be higher, they do not require as much upkeep and can offer more value over time, especially in areas with excessive rainfall or high humidity.