This Waukesha home underwent a full exterior remodel after the homeowners discovered significant hidden damage beneath their existing cedar siding. What began as a siding replacement quickly turned into a structural repair project. Our team removed the failing cedar siding, repaired the damaged sheathing, and installed James Hardie siding in Aged Pewter, combining lap, shake, and board and batten styles with Navajo Beige trim to deliver a durable, low-maintenance exterior built for Wisconsin weather.
Project Specs
Location: Waukesha County, Wisconsin
Home Style: Two-story traditional home surrounded by mature trees
Problem: Failing cedar siding with hidden sheathing damage
Solution: James Hardie fiber cement siding with full structural repair
Colors: James Hardie Aged Pewter siding with Navajo Beige trim
Accents: Shake siding, board and batten, lap siding combination, stone entry
Result: Fully restored structure with a durable, low-maintenance exterior and enhanced curb appeal
Certifications: James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor
Project Overview
When the original cedar siding was removed from this Waukesha home, it revealed extensive damage to the underlying sheathing. This is a common issue with older wood exteriors in Wisconsin, where moisture intrusion over time can compromise the structure beneath the surface. Addressing this properly was critical before any new siding could be installed.
Our in-house carpentry team handled all structural repairs, replacing damaged sheathing and restoring the integrity of the home without bringing in additional crews. This allowed the project to move efficiently while maintaining full control over quality and timeline—an important factor when unexpected conditions are uncovered.
Once the structure was restored, we installed James Hardie siding in Aged Pewter. To enhance the home’s architecture, we incorporated a mix of lap siding, shake siding, and board and batten, creating depth and visual interest across different sections of the exterior. The combination of textures gives the home a more custom, high-end appearance while maintaining a cohesive look.
Navajo Beige trim was used to frame windows, corners, and rooflines, providing contrast against the Aged Pewter siding and tying into the home’s existing stone accents. The result is a balanced exterior that feels both updated and timeless.
Beyond aesthetics, this project delivers long-term performance. James Hardie fiber cement siding resists moisture, rot, and pest damage, making it a strong solution for homes in Waukesha’s climate. With proper installation and repaired structure beneath, this home is now built to withstand the elements for decades.
FAQs
1. What happens if damage is found under old siding?
t’s more common than homeowners expect. When siding is removed, hidden issues like rot or sheathing damage can be uncovered. Addressing these problems properly is critical to ensure the new siding performs as intended.
2. Why replace cedar siding with fiber cement?
Cedar siding requires ongoing maintenance and is vulnerable to moisture and pest damage. Fiber cement siding offers significantly better durability with far less upkeep.
3. Can different siding styles be combined on one home?
Yes. Combining lap siding, shakes, and board and batten adds architectural interest and allows different areas of the home to stand out while maintaining a cohesive design.
4. Is James Hardie siding good for Wisconsin weather?
Yes. James Hardie siding is engineered for cold climates and performs well against moisture, temperature swings, and freeze-thaw cycles common in Wisconsin.
5. How long does fiber cement siding last?
When properly installed, fiber cement siding is designed to last for decades and is backed by strong manufacturer warranties.
Glossary
- Fiber Cement Siding: A durable siding material made from cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, designed to resist moisture, rot, and pests.
- Sheathing: The structural layer beneath siding that provides support and a base for exterior materials. Damage to sheathing must be repaired before new siding is installed.
- Board and Batten: A vertical siding style that uses wide boards with narrow strips (battens) covering the seams, creating a dimensional look.
- Shake Siding: Siding designed to mimic the appearance of hand-split cedar shakes, often used in gables or accent areas.
- Lap Siding: Horizontal siding boards installed in an overlapping pattern to improve water shedding and create a traditional exterior appearance.
