a family member has just purchased a 1970s home (California shed style) with 4x8 wood siding. The siding has deteriorated over the years due to neglect and many surrounding trees which made a damp environment. There is significant rot and carpenter bee and woodpecker damage.
My questions: Should the siding be removed before replacing it? What would be a good replacement siding?
Should the siding be removed before replacing it
.... you cannot "replace" something without removing it first ..... do you mean to ask if it is ok to cover the old siding? ..... just think about what could happen over time if you nail a good piece of wood to a rotten piece of woodShould the siding be removed before replacing it?
.... there is no mention of checking the fitness of the existing siding .... I simply pointed out the possibility of having new siding come in permanent contact with rotten wood