Wood Sidings
by Gordon F. Tully
A design seldom demands a
particular kind of cladding. Usually
the designer or builder must make
hard choices from among a few
options. Here are the most important
questions to answer when choosing
an exterior cladding:
1. Is it available?
2. What is the cost?
3. How long will it last?
4. Is it attractive in itself?
5. Does it support the overall
design?
6. How often will it have to be
refinished?
7. Is the available labor able to
install it properly?
8. Does its use harm the
environment?
This discussion will focus on
bevelled siding and shingles, a variety
of vertical boards (either tongue and
groove or battened), and plywood. I
have no experience with shakes, but
most