Can You Use the Bark of Ash Trees for Siding?

Poplar Bark Siding

• Bark siding is not a new innovation. Many Native American tribes used bark as sheathing for their homes and lodges. In 1895, the bark shingle was invented by architect Henry Bacon, who used the bark of the American chestnut tree. These trees were used almost exclusively for bark shingles until a blight wiped out the species in the 1900s. Today, bark shingles have gained a resurgence with the bark of the yellow poplar. The bark is harvested from trees felled for industry and is considered a maintenance-free, environmentally conscious product.

Wood Siding

• Wood siding is one of the oldest types of siding used on homes. It is durable, readily available and attractive. There are a few species of trees commonly used as siding due to their superior performance. Among the softwood varieties used are pine, spruce and fir. These types of wood are easily milled to support horizontal or vertical siding, and are inexpensive and hold paint well. Common hardwood options include cedar and redwood. Both are rot- and insect-resistant and are prized for their beauty and durability. Redwood and cedar can be more expensive than softwoods.

Wood Paneling

• Plywood paneling is a durable and cost-effective option for homeowners who want the look of wood planks without the high cost. Plywood panels are also easier to install and require less maintenance than wood planks. They are available in a variety of textures and are generally made of durable white pine.

Maintaining Wood Siding

• Even rot-resistant woods such as cedar and redwood are not invincible and must be properly maintained. Regular painting or sealing is required to keep your wood siding from sustaining damage due to adverse weather conditions. Softwoods tend to take and hold paint and stains better because they have smoother grains. Hardwoods with coarser grains tend to flex and swell more as they absorb and lose water, which can cause paint to crack. If you aren't painting your wood, seal it regularly with a water-resistant preservative. These not only help repel water, but contain fungicides to help resist rot as well.