The Weight of Masonite Siding

Composition

• Masonite and similar siding boards are made from a combination of cellulose fibers, water and resin materials that create a plastic base. Early versions of Masonite were weak and reacted poorly to harsh weather conditions. Later versions were stronger and made with additional cement and sand components. These new components increased the weight considerably, but also improved durability and led to new brands like Hardiplank.

Weight

• Weight is difficult to verify for Masonite siding because of the wide number of variables. Weight differs not only between brands but also based on the way the siding is manufactured and even the plant that it comes from. Cement and sand-based Masonite siding weighs around 2.3 pounds per square foot. Versions that use more wood fibers and less cementitious materials will weigh less.

Density

• Masonite hardboard comes in five different types of density. The denser the material, the more it will weigh. You can use this as a basic guide for judging weights. Class 1 boards are the most expensive and most dense, and therefore will weigh the most. Class 5 boards are light versions with less durability, but a lower cost and a lighter weight. The addition of drying oils or extra protective coatings can increase the weight, but only slightly compared to the vital density factor.

Lighter and Heavier Materials

• If you are look for a lighter material than Masonite options, consider using vinyl boards instead. Vinyl resin tends to be lighter than fiberboard options, making it easier to lift and install. Wood siding also has variable density, making it as difficult to pin down as Masonite when it comes to weight, but some versions may be lighter. Cement fiberboard, which does not include cellulose fibers, tends to be heavier.