The Ultimate Guide To Wood Siding On Concrete Block Houses

If you're looking to put wood siding on a concrete block house, there are a few things you should know. The process involves installing wooden furring strips under the siding, which provides a surface for the siding to attach to. The thickness of these strips is important, as they need to be thick enough for the siding nails to sink into – typically, strips that are one and a half inches thick are used.

When installing the furring strips, it's best to use concrete nails and a two-pound hammer for a secure hold. You can also use screws, but this is a slower process and may require drilling pilot holes. It's also recommended to use construction adhesive along with the screws to ensure a strong bond.

Before attaching the siding, it's important to install insect netting at the bottom of the wall to prevent insects from nesting between the siding and the concrete. Once the furring strips and insect netting are in place, you can start attaching the wood siding, working your way up the wall.

Use concrete nails or screws to attach furring strips to the concrete wall

Furring strips are strips of metal or wood that create a support system for a finished wall material to be attached to. They are typically 1" x 2" or 1" x 3" and can be installed either horizontally or vertically.

To attach furring strips to a concrete wall, you will need concrete nails or screws, such as Tapcon Concrete Screws, and a hammer drill.

• Prepare the materials and tools: Gather the necessary materials, including furring strips (pressure-treated wood or metal), concrete nails or screws, a drill, a hammer drill with a masonry bit, a level, a tape measure, a pencil or marker, and safety equipment such as goggles and gloves.
• Measure and mark the wall: Use a tape measure to determine the desired spacing for the furring strips. Mark the top and bottom of each furring strip on the wall with a pencil or marker. A spacing of 16 to 24 inches is commonly used, depending on the size of the wall and any building code requirements.
• Drill pilot holes: Using the hammer drill equipped with a masonry bit, drill pilot holes into the concrete at the marked locations. The pilot holes should follow the fastener manufacturer's recommended diameter for use in concrete.
• Install the furring strips: Position the first furring strip against the wall, aligning it with the marked locations. Use a level to ensure it is straight and plumb.
• Attach the furring strips: Insert a concrete nail or screw through the furring strip and into each pilot hole. Use a drill or wrench to tighten the nails or screws securely. Repeat this process for the remaining furring strips, maintaining the desired spacing.
• Check for level and adjust: Periodically check the level of the furring strips as you install them to ensure they are straight and even. Make any necessary adjustments before securing them in place.

Note: When using concrete screws, it is important to pre-drill the holes in the furring strips to prevent them from cracking when you screw them to the concrete wall. Additionally, stagger the anchors to prevent the wood material from splitting.

Install insect netting to prevent nesting between the siding and concrete

To prevent insects from nesting between the siding and concrete of your house, you should install insect netting.

Firstly, you will need to purchase some wooden furring strips and insect netting. The number of strips you need depends on the length of the wall.

Before you begin, check with your local building department to determine whether any permits are needed for the project.

Next, nail the 1 1/2-inch-thick wooden furring strips to the concrete wall at 4-foot intervals using concrete nails.

Now you can install the insect netting. Nail a strip of netting along the bottom edge of the concrete wall, securing it to the furring strips. The netting should reach about 1 foot up the wall and overlap the ground slightly to form a barrier between the ground and the concrete.

Once the insect netting is in place, you can continue with the rest of the siding installation, safe in the knowledge that insects will not be able to nest between the siding and concrete.

Use vinyl siding for an appealing, polished look

Vinyl siding is a great way to give your concrete block house an appealing, polished look. It is a functional and cost-effective choice for your home. The installation process is similar to installing it over wood. Start by nailing 1 1/2-inch-thick wooden furring strips to the concrete wall at 4-foot intervals using concrete nails. The number of strips will depend on the length of the wall.

Before you begin, check with your local building department to determine whether any permits are required for the project.

Once the furring strips are in place, install a strip of insect netting along the bottom edge of the wall. Nail the netting to the furring strips, allowing it to reach about 1 foot up the wall and overlap slightly with the ground. This will create a barrier that prevents insects from nesting between the siding and the concrete.

Now, it's time to install the vinyl siding. Position the first piece of siding against the furring strips at the top of the wall. Use small nails to secure it, leaving 1/8 inch of the nail shank exposed. This allows for the vinyl to contract and expand with weather changes.

Slide the next piece of siding into place, locking it together with the first piece using the built-in locking mechanism. Ensure the nail holes align, and nail the second piece into place. Repeat this process until all vinyl siding strips are installed. Finally, slide the vertical trim pieces into place at the edges of the siding to complete the project.

Vinyl siding is virtually maintenance-free and designed to last for years. It is resistant to pests, moisture, and weather conditions. With a wide range of colours and textures available, you can easily find an option that complements your home's exterior design.

Check with your local building department to see if permits are needed

When planning to install wood siding on a concrete block house, it is important to check with your local building department to see if any permits are required for the project. Building permit requirements can vary depending on the location, so it is essential to consult the relevant authorities in your area.

In some cases, permits may only be necessary if you are completely removing the existing siding and installing new material. If you are simply adding a new layer of siding on top of the existing one, you may not need a permit, depending on local regulations. However, it is always a good idea to confirm with the building department to ensure you are complying with the applicable codes and requirements.

Local building departments play a crucial role in enforcing building codes and ensuring the safety and structural integrity of buildings. By obtaining the necessary permits, you can be sure that your project meets the required standards and that your home is protected from issues like moisture penetration, mould, and rot. An inspector will typically examine the work to ensure it complies with the relevant codes before providing final approval.

Additionally, your local building department can provide guidance on specific requirements, such as the proper way to attach the furring strips or the need for insect netting to prevent insect infestations between the siding and the concrete. They can also advise on any cosmetic considerations, such as colour or material restrictions, that may be governed by property covenants or zoning regulations.

Therefore, consulting with your local building department is a crucial step in the process of installing wood siding on a concrete block house. Not only will it help you comply with legal requirements, but it will also ensure that your project is safe and structurally sound.

Use treated lumber for furring strips to prevent damage from rainwater

When installing wood siding on a concrete block house, it is essential to consider the potential for rainwater damage. Furring strips are necessary to create a flat surface for the siding to be attached to, and choosing the right type of lumber for these strips is crucial.

Treated lumber, such as pressure-treated southern yellow pine, is an ideal choice for furring strips as it offers superior protection against rainwater damage. The treatment process involves the use of a stabilizing formula like Ecolife (EL2), which repels water and helps the lumber maintain its shape. This treatment also significantly reduces surface cracking and checking, enhancing the durability and longevity of the furring strips.

By opting for treated lumber, you can be confident that your wood siding will have a sturdy and robust foundation. The treatment ensures that the furring strips can withstand the elements, preventing issues like rot and insect damage that can compromise the integrity of your siding.

In addition to choosing treated lumber, it is essential to follow best practices for installation. Ensure that the furring strips are securely attached to the concrete block using appropriate fasteners, such as concrete nails or concrete screws. The spacing of the strips is also vital, typically placed at 4-foot intervals.

Furthermore, consider adding insect netting at the bottom edge of the concrete wall. This netting can be nailed to the furring strips, creating a barrier that prevents insects from nesting between the siding and the concrete.

By selecting treated lumber for your furring strips and following careful installation techniques, you can effectively prevent rainwater damage and ensure the long-term performance of your wood siding on a concrete block house.

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