Description
Masonite siding, sometimes known as hardboard siding, is an exterior product composed of compressed wood fiber, wood chips, wax and resin. While it naturally absorbs water that can make it swell, factory-applied sealant can minimize this effect. The surface can be textured to duplicate many types of wood, and it can take factory-applied paint in a variety of colors. If it is installed and treated correctly, Masonite siding can last 25 years or more, making it a good value for those on limited budgets.
Prices
According to Cost Owl, at the time of publication, Masonite siding costs about $1.50 to $3 a square foot. A home that needs 2,500 square feet of siding can cost from $3,750 to $7,500 in materials alone. Adding professional installation, bumps the cost up to between $7,500 and $11,000 or more, depending on the price of local labor.
Labor
As of May 2010, the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows how wages for contractors differs by location, which can affect the total cost of replacing Masonite siding. Mean wages for these professionals were $29.93, which is useful for comparisons. For states, the highest wages were in Wyoming at a mean $30.69 per hour and New Mexico at a mean $26.37 per hour. Mean rates are below average in Texas at $27.39 per hour and North Carolina at $24.85 per hour. For cities, San Francisco, California, tops the list at $41.04 per hour, followed by Oakland, California, at a mean $41 per hour. Mean wages are far lower in Longview, Texas, at $22.97 per hour and Jacksonville, North Carolina, at a mean $24.56 per hour.
Considerations
Masonite is available in a range of horizontal and vertical patterns, and can be painted like wood, if factory-applied colors don’t suffice. The popularity of Masonite siding has declined recently, according to Cost Owl, due to recalls based on warranty breaches. The material is still a good alternative to wood, if installed properly according to manufacturer’s instructions. This process includes pounding nails flush with the surface, instead of too deeply, which can allow moisture to penetrate. A solid coat of paint is necessary on all sides of the boards, including the cut edges.