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Is a vented rainscreen needed for fiber-cement shingles in DC?

user-1108375 | Posted in Green Building Techniques on

I’m looking at a residing project in Washington DC in which the existing wood lap siding is to be covered in fiber-cement shingles. The house was built in 1923 and the plaster walls have blown-in cellulose.
How crucial is it that a vented rainscreen be used? The additional cost is the issue. Housewrap is planned.

Thanks,

Rick

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Replies

  1. GBA Editor
    Martin Holladay | | #1

    Rick,
    When you install shingles over existing lap sizing, you already have some air gaps between the layers. I imagine that your siding will dry quickly without a rainscreen installation.

  2. user-1108375 | | #2

    Thanks, Martin!

    I had some notions along that line of thinking but wanted an expert opinion.

    Rick

  3. user-1108375 | | #3

    Martin-

    Same thoughts if going with cedar shingles? They'd likely be dipped in stain/sealer thus backprimed.

    Thanks,

    Rick

  4. GBA Editor
    Martin Holladay | | #4

    Rick,
    Yes.

  5. user-1108375 | | #5

    I appreciate your thoughts!

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