Are you thinking of installing wood siding in your home? If so, you can choose between pressure-treated wood and engineered wood. Pressure-treated wood undergoes a treatment process where chemical preservatives are injected into natural timber to protect it from rot and insects. Engineered wood is a composite material comprising wood strands combined with resins or adhesives. Both siding materials offer the look and feel of natural wood, but they have various differences. Therefore, consider these factors when selecting the best material for your siding installation project.

Susceptibility to Moisture Damage

Pressure-treated wood is natural timber injected with preservatives to repel insects, mold, and fungi. However, the resultant product isn't moisture-resistant as the chemicals don't penetrate the wood core. If the wood absorbs moisture, it will decay and ruin the aesthetic appeal of your siding. Therefore, if you opt for pressure-treated wood, you must seal it regularly to prevent moisture infiltration.

Engineered wood comprises timber strands combined with resin, treated with borate, and coated with wax. The borate treatment and wax coating create a sturdy siding material that can resist moisture better than pressure-treated wood. You can apply a sealant to the siding to improve its moisture resistance.

Sturdiness and Durability

Pressure-treated wood has superior properties, but it still carries some weaknesses of natural wood. For example, it can splinter or crack after prolonged exposure to changing climatic conditions throughout the year. Pressure-treated wood fades when exposed to solar radiation. Thus, you have to repaint it regularly to maintain its curb appeal.

Engineered wood is a composite material enhanced to eliminate the weaknesses of natural wood. It is a robust material that won't splinter or crack when exposed to inclement weather. On the downside, the siding color may fade over time due to UV exposure. However, high-quality engineered wood can last for over a decade without requiring a fresh coat of paint.

Aesthetic Appeal

There are various wood species used for siding installations, such as pine, cedar, oak, redwood, and spruce. If you opt for pressure-treated wood, your style options will be limited to the appearance of the timber you choose. You must also consider the weaknesses of each wood species that cannot be fixed through pressure-treating.

Engineered wood is an artificial material that can be customized to achieve the texture and appearance of most natural wood species. Therefore, you can select a material that mimics your favorite wood species without worrying about the cons of natural wood.

Ease of Maintenance

Both engineered wood and pressure-treated wood are easier to maintain than natural timber. However, pressure-treated timber requires careful handling. You should never pressure-wash the wood, as this can cause moisture damage to the siding. Conversely, engineered wood siding can be pressure-washed, which simplifies the cleaning process.

For further consultation and siding installation services, contact a roofing contractor.