[MassHistPres] siding

[Roughan, Michael]

Alisa,

The Hopkinton Historical Commission has acquiesced to the use of modern composite materials that simulate wood. We have made this decision based on the lack of available old growth cedar / fir and other durable natural materials. This has allowed restoration contractors to use Hardiboard, LP siding, Azek trim, simulated slate and other manufactured materials that simulate natural materials. Coating of these products with non-voc, water borne paints is also a consideration. Perhaps this is heresy but we’re looking at the Long Game where the retention of historic properties must be accomplished without significant maintenance premiums.

We have two structures in town where we’ve tried to use natural cedar shakes for roofing. Both were installed about 15 years ago and one has already been replaced (Gazebo) and the second (McFarland Sanger House) is showing signs of cupping and deterioration of the cedar. Of course, if either installation were done with better materials and correctly installed, we would not be in this predicament and there are restoration contractors that can do a good job. My point is that installation of traditional materials requires a level of investment and commitment to detail that is well above the average contractors general expertise and that compromising through the use of composite materials provides a buffer that hopefully allows sustainability of our historical resources.

…..Mike

Michael Roughan, AIA, EDAC, LEED AP
Chairman
Hopkinton Historical Commission
18 Main St
Hopkinton, Ma. 01748
M +1.617.784.6463
Historychair at hopkintonma.gov<mailto:Historychair at hopkintonma.gov>

From: MassHistPres <masshistpres-bounces at cs.umb.edu> On Behalf Of Alisa Struthers
Sent: Friday, September 30, 2022 7:08 AM
To: masshistpres at cs.umb.edu
Subject: [MassHistPres] siding

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Has anyone had the request to use LP lap siding. A manufactured siding that looks  just like a clapboard but is not wood. We here in Townsend have a request to use this material due to the lack of wood clapboards available and the great cost increase.  Has anyone seen these new fangled clapboards?
Thank you much
Alisa
Townsend Historic District Commission
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