North Oaks Siding Replacement Project
When this North Oaks homeowner decided it was time to replace their aging cedar siding, the goal was clear: eliminate ongoing maintenance issues, address visible damage, and update the home’s overall look with a more durable, long-term exterior solution.
The original cedar siding had begun to show signs of water intrusion and woodpecker damage, common challenges for homes surrounded by mature trees. In addition to solving these issues, the homeowners wanted a fresh, updated color palette that would complement the architecture while offering superior performance.
Project Specs
- Location: North Oaks, MN
- Project Type: Full siding replacement
- Existing Siding: Cedar siding with water damage and woodpecker activity
- New Siding: James Hardie® fiber cement lap siding
- Siding Color: Timber Bark
- Trim, Soffit & Fascia: James Hardie® soffit and fascia
- Specialty Siding Detail: Vertical Boral® siding at curved staircase wall
- Certifications: James Hardie Elite Contractor
Project Overview
This North Oaks siding replacement project focused on upgrading a home with aging cedar siding that had been compromised by water intrusion and persistent woodpecker damage. In addition to resolving these performance issues, the homeowners wanted to modernize the exterior with a cleaner, more durable siding profile and a warm, updated color palette.
After removing the existing cedar siding, our team installed James Hardie® fiber cement lap siding in Timber Bark, providing a low-maintenance solution designed to withstand Minnesota’s climate. To complete the exterior envelope, new James Hardie soffit and fascia were added for improved durability and a cohesive finished look..
A unique architectural feature of the home—the curved exterior wall along the staircase—required a custom approach. Vertical Boral® siding was selected for this area, allowing the curve to remain smooth and intentional while integrating seamlessly with the surrounding lap siding.
The completed exterior delivers a dramatic improvement in both appearance and performance. The new James Hardie siding system eliminates the vulnerabilities of the old cedar exterior while giving the home a refreshed, cohesive look from every angle.
From the durable lap siding to the precision detailing around the curved staircase, this North Oaks siding replacement is a great example of how thoughtful material selection and expert installation can transform a home.
This North Oaks siding replacement project highlights how thoughtful material selection and precise installation can solve long-standing exterior issues while elevating a home’s overall appearance. By replacing damaged cedar siding with James Hardie® lap siding in Timber Bark, upgrading the soffit and fascia, and carefully addressing unique architectural details like the curved staircase wall with vertical Boral® siding, the homeowners now have a durable, low-maintenance exterior built for Minnesota’s climate. The result is a cohesive, long-lasting exterior that improves performance, reduces ongoing maintenance concerns, and enhances curb appeal for years to come.
FAQs
1. Why was the original cedar siding replaced?
The existing cedar siding had sustained water damage and repeated woodpecker activity, both of which can compromise long-term performance. Replacing it with fiber cement siding eliminated ongoing maintenance concerns and improved overall durability.
2. How does James Hardie siding help prevent woodpecker damage?
James Hardie® fiber cement siding is significantly harder than wood, making it far less attractive to woodpeckers. While no siding is completely immune, fiber cement dramatically reduces the likelihood of future damage compared to traditional cedar.
3. What are the benefits of choosing James Hardie lap siding in Timber Bark?
Timber Bark offers a warm, natural appearance while maintaining the clean lines of lap siding. Combined with fiber cement construction, it provides long-lasting color performance, resistance to moisture, and low-maintenance durability ideal for Minnesota homes.
4. Why was vertical siding used on the curved staircase wall?
The curved wall required a custom approach to maintain smooth transitions and proper alignment. Vertical Boral® siding was selected because it adapts well to curved surfaces while integrating seamlessly with the surrounding lap siding.
5. Does replacing soffit and fascia improve more than just appearance?
Yes. New James Hardie soffit and fascia improve durability around rooflines, help manage ventilation, and reduce long-term maintenance, while also creating a clean, finished look that ties the entire exterior together.
Glossary
Boral® Siding
A durable composite trim and siding product often used for specialty applications. In this project, vertical Boral siding was installed on a curved staircase wall to maintain smooth lines and consistent detailing.
Cedar Siding
A traditional wood siding material valued for its natural appearance but prone to moisture damage, rot, and woodpecker activity—especially in wooded environments like North Oaks.
Fiber Cement Siding
A composite siding material made from cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. Fiber cement siding offers excellent resistance to moisture, pests, fire, and impact while requiring significantly less maintenance than wood.
James Hardie® Lap Siding
A horizontal siding profile manufactured by James Hardie, designed to replicate the look of traditional wood lap siding while delivering superior durability and long-term performance.
Soffit
The material installed on the underside of roof overhangs. Properly installed soffit helps manage ventilation, protects rafters from moisture exposure, and contributes to a finished exterior appearance.
Fascia
The vertical trim board installed along the roof edge where gutters attach. Fascia protects roof structure from weather exposure and plays a key role in supporting gutters and maintaining clean rooflines.
Timber Bark
A warm, neutral color from the James Hardie siding color palette that pairs well with a wide range of architectural styles and exterior materials while providing lasting color performance.
