Siding
The
application or installation of synthetic siding can severely compromise the
appearance and integrity of historic buildings, often obscuring and damaging
original or later historic details and materials. While application of
synthetic siding may cover a problem, it will not rectify it and may even
accelerate existing causes of damage. For example, paint failure and clapboard
damage are often caused by faulty gutters and downspouts. If this drainage
system is not repaired before installation, runoff water may get trapped behind
the siding, causing even more damage. In addition, synthetic siding may create
its own moisture problems.
Wood clapboards
breath by allowing moisture created by differences in
temperature between the inside and outside of
the house to
migrate to the exterior before condensation occurs in the walls. Unless an
interior vapor barrier is
installed, the
impenetrable layer created by aluminum or vinyl siding will trap excess water
vapor which
condenses and not
only damages wood but can also contribute to the formation and growth of mold.
Retain
original or historic siding material if possible. If residing is required,
repair or replace with new
materials that
duplicate or match the original or later historic materials as closely as
possible. The
appropriate historic
siding materials are clapboard, brick, and on certain historical building
styles, wood
shingles. Siding
materials such as aluminum, vinyl, asphalt, mineral or synthetic that were
unavailable
when a
building was originally constructed are not appropriate and their installation
will not be
approved.
Exception:
Composite siding materials might be considered on a case by case basis.
Determining
factors might include but not be limited to durability, application, and
visibility of the
material from a
public way. Samples of composite siding materials should be reviewed
by the
Historical Commission to find a visually acceptable substitute.
Recommendations:
The Historical
Commission strongly recommends the use of white or red cedar for replacement
exterior siding and
trim due to
its decay resistance and long lasting properties. Back priming all exterior wood materials
prior to
installation is also encouraged.
Removal of
vinyl and aluminum siding is encouraged.