Masonite is the most popular brand name for hardboard siding. One can switch over to Masonite nowadays, as the quality has been improved to vast extent. Masonite has become an answer to cracks, swellings and fading of other siding types.
Masonite is manufactured from wooden waste material as wooden chips, resins, wax and wood fiber. This makes it a synthetic composite. The wood fiber goes through different levels of consolidation and interfiling. It is a lengthy process but a strong product is the consequence. The smooth surfaced hardboard can be manufactured in different, desired textures so that it can mimic the various wood finishes.
Masonite is preferred because of its finish, strength, less maintenance, easy affordability and its resemblance with wood. Moreover, it is environmental friendly and no pollution is spread or trees are cut to manufacture Masonite. Depending on levels of processing, it is sold under different shades of finish. They lap Masonite siding is up to 16 feet long and panel’s length can be up to 4 ft. by 9 ft. It is either ½ inch thick or 7/16 inch.x
A pre-painted variety is present in all designs to avoid painting and straining by the homeowner. This takes some extra money but is a convenient method. One can order pre-printed boards if one is behind a specific design. Masonite is not having a good past.
Masonite Corporation suffered a class lawsuit action in the 1980’s and 1990’s. Therefore, people yet don’t like to buy Masonite as they aren’t aware of present quality and have kept their bad experience in mind. Masonite does have the other side.
Nothing is flawless, so is Masonite. It is not 100% insect proof; it catches fire though easily but is flammable. It won’t swell like other wood sidings but it can crack. Like every other siding this brand requires regular maintenance and care.
To protect the damage, make sure that end edges are painted and the bottom row is above 7 inches at least from the ground to keep it away from moisture. Check that the bottom row has got enough paint as they are the prone areas to damage.
Tags: Hardboard Siding, Masonite Siding