If you've looked into siding options or own an older home, you might've heard of masonite siding. It looks like wood. It's made from wood fibers. But it's not quite the same — and knowing the difference matters.
Let's break it down. Here's what masonite siding is, why it became popular, and what to watch out for if your home still has it.
A Simple Explanation of Masonite Siding
Masonite siding is a type of engineered wood. It's made by mixing wood fibers with glue or resin. Then that mix is pressed into boards under heat and pressure. The result? A flat panel that can be textured to look like wood.
It's also called hardboard siding or pressed wood siding. But "Masonite" became the brand name most people recognize, kind of like Kleenex or Band-Aid.
What it looks like:
- Lap siding with a woodgrain texture
- Comes in sheets or boards
- Usually painted to match the house
Why It Was So Popular
In the 1980s and '90s, masonite siding was everywhere. Builders used it in new subdivisions all across the U.S. Why? It was cheap, fast to install, and gave homes a clean, wood-like finish.
People liked it because:
- It looked like real wood
- It was easier to install
- It cost a lot less than cedar or redwood
- You could paint it any color you wanted
For homeowners, it felt like a win. You got that nice curb appeal without the high price tag of real wood siding.
But… There Were Problems
Masonite siding hasn't aged well. Especially in places with lots of rain or humidity.
Since it's made with wood fibers, it soaks up water. And that's where the trouble starts.
Common issues include:
- Swollen or soft spots near the bottom of boards
- Cracks or warping between studs
- Paint that bubbles or peels
- Mold and rot behind the panels
- Pieces breaking off or delaminating (splitting in layers)
If you catch the damage early and stay on top of maintenance, you can extend its life. But left unchecked, it can lead to much bigger repairs down the line.
Is Masonite Siding Still Made?
Nope. The original Masonite Corporation stopped making siding years ago. After major lawsuits over product failures, most companies moved away from hardboard altogether.
Today, you might still find similar engineered wood products under other names, but they're usually better made and more durable.
Still, thousands of homes in the U.S. have the original masonite siding.
How Masonite Compares to Other Siding Types
Here's a quick comparison to help put masonite in context:
| Material | Looks Like Wood? | Cost | Durability | Maintenance | Moisture Resistance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Masonite | Yes | Low | Low | High | Poor |
| Vinyl | Somewhat | Low | Medium | Low | Good |
| Fiber Cement | Yes | Medium | High | Low | Excellent |
| Engineered Wood | Yes | Medium | Medium | Medium | Good |
| Natural Wood | Yes | High | Medium | High | Poor |
As you can see, masonite is one of the least durable of the bunch. And with the high upkeep it demands, it often ends up costing more in the long run.
How to Tell If You Have Masonite Siding
Not sure if your house has it? There are a few things to check.
Look for:
- Horizontal wood-look panels
- Edges that seem swollen or soft to the touch
- Repeating grain patterns (not random like real wood)
- Peeling paint or surface cracks
- Thin layers when viewed from a damaged corner
You can also look behind an exterior outlet or ask a local contractor for help identifying it.
Have Questions?
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Schedule a Free EstimateCan You Repair Masonite Siding?
Yes — but only up to a point. If damage is limited to a few boards, you might be able to swap them out or reseal the surface.
But here's the tricky part: masonite is no longer made, so finding exact replacements can be tough. Matching the texture and thickness of older panels is often a challenge.
If damage is widespread — like if a whole wall is rotting — it's usually better to replace the siding entirely.
What's a Good Replacement?
If you're planning to upgrade your home's exterior, these options are worth looking into:
Fiber Cement (e.g., James Hardie)
Durable, weather-resistant, and looks like wood. It's more expensive than masonite but lasts much longer with little maintenance.
Engineered Wood (LP SmartSide)
Modern engineered wood products are a big improvement over older ones. They resist rot, pests, and moisture much better than masonite ever did.
Vinyl Siding
Affordable, easy to maintain, and available in lots of colors. It doesn't look exactly like wood, but it's a solid low-cost option.
When Should You Replace Masonite Siding?
If it's in good condition, with no swelling or cracks, you can keep it. Just make sure to repaint and reseal it regularly.
But if you notice:
- Warping or rotting panels
- Gaps between boards
- Paint that won't stick
- Mold smells near the siding
…it might be time to start planning a full replacement.
Home inspectors and buyers often flag masonite siding as a concern. Upgrading it can protect your home and increase resale value.
Final Thoughts
Masonite siding had its moment. It gave homeowners an affordable way to get a wood-look exterior. But it came with trade-offs — and most of those show up over time.
If your home still has masonite siding, take care of it. Seal it. Repaint it. Check for damage every year.
And if it's starting to fail? You've got better, longer-lasting options today.
Need help figuring out what to do next?
Get in touch for a free siding inspection or a quote. We'll walk you through your options and help you make the right call for your home.
