Fibre cement siding is strong and long-lasting, particularly in
Calgary’s harsh climate. But, even robust siding can be
problematic if not properly installed. One significant issue is
moisture becoming trapped behind the siding. Moisture can cause
rot, mold, and significant damage to a home. In this blog, we
describe why moisture issues occur and how to avoid them.
Poor Installation Is a Common Reason
If fibre cement siding isn’t properly installed, water can easily
seep behind it. Cracks, gaps, or improper nailing allow water to
enter when the rain or snow comes. A few installers also omit
crucial steps such as placing flashing around doors and windows.
These little blunders might lead to enormous issues down the
road. That’s why it is vital to hire a professional crew that adheres to
correct installation procedures.
No Damaged Weather Barrier
A weather-resistant barrier (also called a house wrap) is placed
under the siding to keep out water. If this barrier is missing or
torn, water can soak into your home’s walls. In Calgary, where
snow and rain are common, skipping this step can lead to
serious damage. Even the best siding won’t help if the barrier
behind it is weak.
Moisture Gets Trapped with No Ventilation
Fibre cement siding requires tiny air spaces behind it to allow
moisture to escape. Without air flowing through, water becomes
trapped and develops into a mold or rot within the wall. This is
quite likely to occur if the siding is put on too tightly or not with
good planning. Good siding design always leaves room for
air to flow and dry out moisture.
Caulking That Cracks or Shrinks
Caulking closes gaps around windows, doors, and joints in your
siding. With time, caulking cracks, peels, or dries out as a result
of the fluctuating temperatures in Calgary. When that occurs,
water seeps through the gaps and becomes trapped behind the
siding. It is for this reason that inspecting and reapplying
caulking is an intelligent aspect of home maintenance.
Harsh Calgary Weather
Calgary winters include snow, ice, and cold winds. Ice dams may
develop on your roof and push water beneath the siding. Rain
and wind can also pressure water into tight spaces. If your
siding is old or was not installed well, it may not be able to
withstand these conditions.
Signs of Moisture Problems to Watch For
Homeowners usually don’t realize they have a moisture issue
immediately since the damage is done behind the siding. But
warning signs exist. You may notice peeling paint on the
interior of your home, damp walls, or a moldy odor. On the exterior,
buckled siding or stained streaks can be a sign. If you see any of
these warning signs, it’s worth having a siding professional
inspect your home before the issue escalates.
Why Professional Help Is Important
Doing it yourself when dealing with moisture problems is
dangerous and likely to not address the source of the problem.
Fibre cement siding is heavy and durable, and it requires the
proper tools and expertise to remove it safely. Our staff at Straight
Path Construction is trained to recognize hidden damage and fix
it properly. We don’t merely patch the outside — we repair the
moisture problem at its source so your home remains dry and
safe for the long term.
How to Prevent Moisture Problems
To prevent moisture problems, ensure your siding is properly
installed by professionals familiar with fibre cement. Always
use a proper weather barrier. Flashing should be applied around
all windows, doors, and roof lines. Keep your caulking up to date
and your gutters clear. These small precautions go a long way
in securing your home.
Final Thought
Water behind fibre cement siding can lead to serious issues if not
treated early. It’s usually due to improper installation, lack of
barriers, or ventilation. With Calgary’s extreme weather conditions,
it’s essential to get your house ready. At Straight Path
Construction, we ensure all aspects of your siding are properly
installed. This keeps your house safe from water damage and
helps it remain strong for years to come.
Call to Action
Suspect your siding has moisture problems?
Call Straight Path Construction in Calgary today to have us
conduct a complete inspection and professional siding repairs.
Check us out at our website or give us a call to arrange your free consultation.
