Plywood siding has long been one of the least popular siding choices as it is hard to maintain and flammable. It is also known to crack, warp, split and peel at faster rates than other wood siding types. But the truth is that if you choose a high-grade plywood and have the time and patience to maintain plywood siding, it can prove to be a beautiful, natural wood choice.

Advantages of Plywood Siding

When treated properly, plywood siding is attractive and durable, not mention more sustainably sourced than vinyl or fiber cement. It can easily be painted or stained, sealed and coated to prevent moisture and termites. Fire-retardant plywood will reduce the amount of smoke and slow the spread of flames in case of fire.

Choosing a high-grade plywood also means a smoother-looking plywood. Veneer plywood siding, usually faced with pine or fir, is more waterproof than standard plywood siding.

Wood siding installers note that plywood is one of the easier types to work with, and it can last up to 30 years if installed and maintained properly.

Plywood Siding Maintenance

To keep plywood siding looking its best and to make it last as long as possible, you will need to follow some general wood siding maintenance tips. Also keep in mind that when plywood siding is not well maintained, nails begin to fall out. If you do choose plywood siding for your home, make sure you will be able to keep up with the maintenance:

• Seal new siding, especially the edges, with water repellent resin-based sealer and reseal every few years.
  
  
• Restain every three years or repaint every 4-6 years. Find a professional painter to make sure your siding is painted properly.
  
  
• Check your siding regularly for termites and termite damage.

An alternative plywood siding option is Georgia-Pacific Plywood Siding. Their line of Plytanium plywood exterior siding is an all-plywood, exterior-grade panel that is ideal for siding applications as it lasts a long time and is more durable than regular plywood. Siding installers also like it because it is easy to install.

Updated August 22, 2018.