Behind the walls, A look at structural T1-11                                               Quincy WA and Moses Lake Home Inspections

Have you ever wondered when you look at a home that uses T1-11 siding what is behind the siding?

In some construction techniques the use of T1-11 can act as both a wall cladding and sheathing all in one. These panels need to be rated for structural use. This means if you removed the sheetrock and insulation you would see the house wrap. Not any sheathing.

Not all panels are created the same.  In this type of construction the panel should have an APA® rating for structural use.

The advantage for the builder is that you get your code structural strength and siding at the same time rather than using OSB or Plywood CDX for structural and then siding over it for protection.

The disadvantage is T1-11 tends to split and crack from exposure much more than many siding products.

Another advantage is that it installed as part of the framing process, it is inexpensive, solid, can be stained or painted.

The disadvantage is structural T1-11 has limited styles it is fairly high maintenance and many feel that it has a "cheap look".

The other advantage if you want to add another wall cladding at a later time you now have your sheathing in place, I guess this is an advantage.

"If you think it's expensive to hire a professional to do the job, wait until you hire an amateur..."

Red Adair

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NCW Home Inspections, LLC  is a Licensed Washington State Home Inspection service located in Wenatchee Washington serving Chelan County, Douglas County, Kittitas County, Okanogan County and Grant County Washington and the cities of Wenatchee, Leavenworth, Cashmere, Orville, Cle Elum, East Wenatchee, Quincy and many more…                             
NCW Home Inspections LLC-509-670-9572

Sheesh…. Where’s the sheathing?  Wenatchee and Quincy Home Inspection