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Atlanta Bungalow, Project 1: Clapboard Siding Repair A siding restoration project gets a little more complicated when termites enter the picture. From "Restoration Realities" episode DRTR-207

(Continued from page 1)

Steps:

• First, remove any rotted clapboards, making sure to only remove the layers--or courses--affected. A cat's paw is a handy tool for removing rotted clapboards. A second method is to use a nail set and hammer to drive existing nails on through, allowing the boards to slide out (figure C ). This will help protect any good boards.

• Use a utility knife to score any vertical caulk joints that exist between the end boards and siding (figure D). This will help limit the amount of paint touch ups you'll need to make to the end boards.

  Figure C

  Figure D

  
  

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• In cases where only a portion of a clapboard is damaged, use a speed square to mark a new joint (figure E) and cut off the damaged portion with a circular saw (figure F).

  Figure E

  Figure F

  
  

  Figure G

• In this case, removal of the damaged boards revealed a section of the sill, beneath the clapboards, that had been damaged by termites (figure G).

  The termite-damaged area will have to be cut out entirely and replaced with a new section of wood. A custom-cut piece is made by joining together two pieces of pressure-treated lumber to achieve the proper dimension. The treated lumber is resistant to insect infestation.
  

• To restore the termite-damaged area, use a reciprocating saw to score the outline of the wood that needs to be removed (figure H). Then, follow that outline with a circular saw and made vertical cuts with the reciprocating saw (figure I). Finally, use a wood chisel and mallet to chisel out the damaged wood that remains.

  Figure H

  Figure I

  
  

• With the length and width of the removed sill, cut two pieces of treated lumber that can be nailed together to achieve the thickness you need.

• Place the replacement sill into the hole (figures J and K), fitting it in tightly with a sledgehammer.

  Figure J

  Figure K

  
  

  Figure L

• Nail it into the surrounding sill and to further solidify the patch, drill holes around the perimeter and fill each hole with epoxy (figure L). This will help strengthen the delicate wood that surrounds the repair.
  
  
  

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  RELATED PROJECTS: Siding with the Best: Basics Siding with the Best: Choices Siding with the Best: More Alternative Options Siding with the Best: Stucco

  
  

  ALSO IN THIS EPISODE:
  	Project Background: Walkway Rehab and Wood Siding Repair
  	Atlanta Bungalow, Project 1: Clapboard Siding Repair
  	Atlanta Bungalow, Project 2: Traditional Brick Walkway