Riverwood Sustainability Network

I would like to find out what others know and think about the problems with the board siding on our homes. The siding that many of us have on our homes is defective. The siding absorbs water (usually via the bottom edge)and then swells and warps. Masonite discontinued making this siding in 1998 after the courts found the product defective and unsuitable as a siding for homes.

A class action lawsuit against Masonite resulted in a finding that Masonite siding was defective and homeowners having it could file a claim for a cash settlement. I have this siding as many of you probably do.

I received at letter from David Watson of Data Processing Services, Hardboard Siding Claims of Atlanta Ga. He said that he would file such a claim for me and take part of the proceeds for his service. He indicated that many homeowners had received settlement checks exceeding $5000.

What experience have you had on this matter of siding problems? Any suggestions other than shooting the builder?

siding used until?

My house was built in 1998. I've noticed that its design looks a little different that the surrounding houses built in 1996-97. Is there a chance this was not used on my house? I've not seen any rotting issues with it.

It's Possible

Masonite stopped making the defective siding in 1998. So it's possible you don't ahve it. There are at least two ways to determine what kind of siding you have -- look at the back of a piece (hard to do ususally unless you remove it) or call your builder and ask him what he used. Your builder should have a file on the materials used in your home.

My builder stopped using the Masonite (I am not sure when) and started using Hardie Board -- a cement based product.

by law...

by law it was not supposed to be used after January 15th 1998. I called my builder but he barely remembers the house...so he just said probably.