Hardboard and OSB siding are engineered wood products that can offer many benefits. A large part of the attraction is the price; hardboard and OSB are usually less expensive than solid wood. Hardboard and OSB also come in many styles and designs, ranging from traditional lap siding to rustic board-and-batten to even a stucco lookalike.
Others appreciate hardboard and OSB’s smooth surface, which finishes quite well. But while this uniform surface, free of knots and other defects, can be a virtue, it also can lack the character of solid wood. Most agree, however, that wood-composite siding looks more “natural” than vinyl or aluminum.
Panels come in 4-by-8 or 4-by-10-foot dimensions, and lap siding boards come 16 feet long, 4–16 inches wide, and usually 7/16- or 1/2-inch thick. Hardboard and OSB sidings are usually prefinished in the factory and sometimes come stained or prepainted, as well.
While hardboard and OSB siding have been marketed for their strength and durability, they are not the best choice for all homeowners, particularly those who live in damp or rainy climates. Moisture has been known to be a problem if allowed to seep around (or in some cases through) the finish and into the wood fibers themselves, resulting in expansion, buckling, and rot. If considering hardboard or OSB, be sure to discuss these concerns with your retailer and research manufacturers carefully.
Always prime or seal your hardboard or OSB siding before installation; be sure to cover all edges. Composite siding can be easy and quick to install, particularly varieties that are long and lightweight.
To prevent moisture problems, install siding a minimum of 6 inches off the ground, keep sprinkler water from hitting the surface, and ensure that garden mulch does not build up against the siding. Inspect your siding regularly, checking for damage to the paint job or where seams meet. Repaint the siding approximately every five years to maximize its lifespan.
