Replies

1. 
   davidmeiland | Sep 27, 2011 12:40am | #1

   I would nail off the T1-11 on a shear nail schedule (if it's not already), install a layer of felt, install the rainscreen battens, and install the siding. If you're at all inclined to add insulation, this is your chance to put foam over the T1-11 before you do the new siding.

2. 
   user-869687 | Sep 27, 2011 01:19am | #2

   +1 on all of David Meiland's comments. The #15 felt already installed is not a vapor barrier; it is permeable enough not to cause problems trapping water in the plywood.

   If you don't add exterior insulation and you do the shingles, that would be easier without the furring. Shingles allow enough air infiltration that they don't need a rainscreen, and if there is furring it needs to be 8" on center for an 8" exposure. That's a lot of sticks. There are also tangled nylon rainscreen products like Home Slicker but they're kind of expensive for what you get. Two layers of asphalt paper under shingles (without any furring) should be pretty safe even in a rainy area. If you did add foam insulation, then furring would be needed for any type of siding.

3. 
   tfarwell | Sep 27, 2011 06:55pm | #3

   David and Thomas,

   Thanks for the quick reply. I'll plan on adding the felt over the existing siding. I appreciate the confirmation that this is the best practice.

   As for battens on the shingles, I don't mind putting all the sticks up - I like the extra space to allow for drying. I will also put asphalt shingle pieces behind the battens to allow for vertical airflow. I'll have my kids cut and assemble these (cheap labor and materials).

   I have considered the additional insulation on the house, but I just cant justify the cost and effort to put it on.
   - Portland, Oregon is fairly mild
   - my family keeps windows cracked open at night all year long
   - We have three sources of heat: passive solar, wood pellets and high-eff heat pump as the last stage - which totals up to be fairly economical

   Thanks again for your input.
   Troy

4. 
   davidmeiland | Sep 27, 2011 07:13pm | #4

   I wouldn't put the asphalt pieces behind the battens. There is already plenty of airflow though, around, and behind shingle siding. Just nail the battens directly to the wall.

5. 
   tfarwell | Oct 15, 2011 09:37am | #5

   David,

   Good point - I will forgo the asphalt.

6. 
   wjrobinson | Oct 15, 2011 12:55pm | #6

   No harm would come from ripping up pressure treated for the battens. Either PT plywood or 1x6 stock your choice depends on window extensions etc. Long term the battens would most likely outlast the siding which to me is a good thing.