What Is Masonite Siding? A Complete Guide for Washington Homeowners
If you’ve been researching home siding options, you might have come across the term Masonite siding. But what is masonite siding, and why do so many homeowners in Washington avoid it today? Once considered an affordable and stylish choice, Masonite hardboard siding has since gained a reputation for high maintenance and water damage issues, especially in the Pacific Northwest.
At Builders Service Company, we help homeowners across Washington make informed choices for every exterior project. In this guide, we’ll explain what masonite siding is, why it fails in Washington’s wet climate, and which siding types are better for long-term durability and design improvement.
Understanding Masonite Siding and Its History
What exactly is Masonite siding?
Masonite siding, often called hardboard siding, is made from compressed wood fibers, wax, and resin. It was developed to mimic real wood while reducing cost. Made from wood fibers bonded under pressure, this product was once seen as a creative siding solution that fit many remodeling and home improvement projects. Knowing what is masonite siding helps homeowners understand why it has struggled in regions with heavy rainfall and high humidity.
How Masonite siding became popular in the 1980s and 1990s
During the late 20th century, many contractors and builders used Masonite for residential build projects because it was inexpensive and easy to install. For a short time, it became one of the top siding choices in home design due to its smooth finish and versatility.
Materials and composition: how Masonite differs from traditional wood siding
Masonite siding is not the same as solid wood. It’s made of processed wood fibers and resin rather than natural timber. While it provided the appearance of wood siding, its durability was limited. Over time, exposure to moisture caused swelling, surface cracking, and other damage that made maintenance difficult.
Common Masonite Siding Problems in Washington’s Climate
Why Masonite siding doesn’t perform well in the Pacific Northwest
Washington’s damp environment makes it hard for Masonite siding to stay intact. The region’s frequent rainfall accelerates swelling and rot. Even high-quality installation cannot completely protect this siding from damage in heavy moisture.
Moisture absorption and swelling issues
Because Masonite is made from wood fibers, it naturally absorbs water. This results in warped boards, surface bubbles, and seams that separate. These damage signs often require costly repair or full siding replacement.
Rot, delamination, and mold growth over time
Once water infiltrates the panels, rot and mold begin to form. Over time, delamination, the separation of internal layers, reduces siding durability. This kind of structural failure not only affects curb appeal but also weakens home insulation.
Pest damage and structural weakening
Damp Masonite siding attracts insects such as termites. Prolonged exposure leads to wood fiber damage that compromises your home’s framework.
Energy efficiency concerns with aging Masonite panels
When cracks form, air leaks occur, lowering energy performance. Replacing old siding improves insulation, lowers heating costs, and enhances home comfort.
What Are the Signs of Failing Masonite Siding?
Visible cracks, blistering, and bubbling
These are early warning signs of water damage. Masonite siding that bubbles or blisters has trapped moisture between the layers.
Warping and uneven siding panels
Uneven panels indicate water absorption and loss of structural integrity. This is common in older Masonite hardboard siding installations.
Faded paint or peeling surface layers
Faded paint means the protective seal is gone. Once that happens, water seeps into the wood fibers, causing deeper material breakdown.
Increased indoor drafts or higher energy bills
Compromised siding allows air leaks, reducing insulation efficiency. This often makes homes in Washington less energy-efficient and more expensive to maintain.
Is Masonite Siding Still Made or Installed Today?
Why Masonite siding production stopped
Manufacturers discontinued Masonite siding after repeated consumer complaints, recalls, and lawsuits over premature failure. The product’s durability problems outweighed its initial low cost.
Manufacturer recalls and lawsuits related to Masonite
Homeowners who experienced siding damage due to rot and delamination filed lawsuits that resulted in nationwide settlements. These issues made contractors turn to more reliable siding materials.
Why it’s no longer recommended for new homes in Washington
Builders no longer use Masonite because it cannot withstand Washington’s rainy conditions. Today’s siding options offer longer life and stronger resistance to moisture. Understanding what is masonite siding also helps explain why it’s now considered outdated and unreliable for modern home projects.
Why We Don’t Recommend or Offer Masonite Siding
Builders Service Company’s commitment to durable, weather-resistant materials
At Builders Service Company, we believe in siding materials that protect homes for decades. Masonite’s durability limitations make it unsuitable for Washington’s climate. Instead, we focus on modern vinyl and fiber cement products that ensure strong performance and minimal maintenance.
Long-term costs and maintenance issues of Masonite siding
Frequent repainting, patching, and replacement make Masonite an expensive long-term choice. Its damage-prone nature increases labor and remodeling costs for homeowners.
Better alternatives for homeowners seeking reliable siding solutions
We guide every customer toward siding types that balance cost, energy savings, and design appeal. These materials reduce ongoing maintenance and extend home lifespan.
Best Alternatives to Masonite Siding for Washington Homes
Vinyl siding: affordable, low maintenance, and weatherproof
Vinyl siding remains the most practical choice for Washington homes. It resists damage from rain and wind while maintaining its color and texture with little effort.
Fiber cement siding: strong, modern, and moisture resistant
Fiber cement siding provides superior durability and low maintenance. Made from cement and cellulose fibers, it is a strong upgrade from Masonite hardboard siding.
Insulated vinyl siding: improved energy savings
Insulated vinyl siding adds a protective layer to minimize heat loss. It helps homeowners maintain indoor comfort and save on energy costs throughout every season.
Comparing durability and value between options
| Siding Type | Average Lifespan | Maintenance | Moisture Resistance | Cost Efficiency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Masonite Siding | 10–15 years | High | Poor | Low |
| Vinyl Siding | 30–40 years | Low | Excellent | High |
| Fiber Cement | 35–50 years | Moderate | Excellent | High |
| Insulated Vinyl | 40+ years | Low | Excellent | Very High |
How Much Does Siding Replacement Cost in Washington?
Key factors that affect siding replacement costs
The total cost depends on home size, chosen material, and installation details. Old Masonite or wood siding may require removal before new installation, which adds to the overall project cost.
Average price range for vinyl and fiber cement options
Washington homeowners typically spend $8,000–$18,000 on siding replacement, depending on material quality and home design. These siding types provide superior value through extended durability.
Cost vs. long-term savings and home value improvement
Though the upfront investment is higher than Masonite, durable siding pays off over time through fewer repairs, lower energy bills, and better resale potential.
Why Choose Professional Siding Replacement Services in Washington
Benefits of expert installation by Builders Service Company
A professional siding installation ensures precise fit, water resistance, and proper sealing. Our roofing and siding contractors bring years of local experience to every project.
Warranty protection and quality assurance
Every installation is backed by product and labor warranties, ensuring reliable performance and long-term satisfaction for Washington homeowners.
Avoiding costly DIY mistakes and ensuring perfect fit
DIY repairs often fail to address hidden damage. Our experts identify underlying issues, recommend durable materials, and complete each project safely and efficiently.
Serving Homeowners Across Washington
At Builders Service Company, we proudly serve homeowners across Washington, including Seattle, Tacoma, Olympia, Kent, Bremerton, and Auburn. Whether replacing old Masonite siding, upgrading windows, or improving roofing systems, we provide professional exterior remodeling services tailored to local conditions. Builders Service Company is a Better Business Bureau “A+” accredited business and we are appropriately licensed and insured.
Contact Builders Service Company for a free consultation
Protect your home with reliable siding built to last in Washington’s wet climate. Contact Builders Service Company today for expert guidance, detailed project estimates, and professional installation service that ensures your home stays strong and beautiful for years.
