I have seen an increase in the number of problems related to wood siding over the course of my experience in the construction business — especially since I have become a home inspector and construction consultant. If caught in time, these problems may be confined to buckling and splitting boards; they may be far more serious, however, if regular maintenance, flashing, and other details have not been given the attention they require. I first noticed the increase in wood siding failures in the late 1970s, just as insulating foam sheathing was gaining popularity. It's true that most rigid foam sheathing is so effective that it prevents the dissipation of moisture and heat