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Replacing Siding, Sheathing & Insulation from exterior

Bryanw511 | Posted in Construction Techniques on January 8, 2019 10:51am

We bought a home and the exterior is in need of attention. Everything (wood siding, soffit, gutters, doors, windows, etc.) is original from 1979. I also know from doing some small projects around the house that the insulation & vapor barrier weren’t installed in the best fashion. When we decide to replace the siding, I’m contemplating removing everything down to the studs (siding, fiberboard sheathing & fiberglass batts) and replacing with new rockwool, plywood sheathing, weather barrier, and siding. Is this a feasible project to do all from the exterior? Would it be possible to replace the vapor barrier too as I know the existing one was installed poorly. I’m just wondering if anyone has done something similar before and has any insight or pointers. Thanks.

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  1. User avater
    user-2409187 | Jan 08, 2019 11:42am | #1

    Use Alcohol-based primer as VB

    Yes, it is feasible to work from the outsidie in, so to speak. You will strip wall cavities of all materials. Only studs and interior drywall or plaster remains. Insulate, sheath, wrap and side. The vapor barrier can be achieved using an alcohol-based primer (Zinser B.I.N.) in at least two coats. Purdue University has the study/data you need. I have used this method successfully on my remodels. A paint-applied VB completely encases the interior in one, unlapped, unpunctured system.

  2. florida | Jan 09, 2019 12:22pm | #2

    Very feasible and frequently done. While we have the walls open we also take the opportunity to spray them with  a termiticide.  I'd suggest checking into the Zipwall system as once it's up and taped the walls are waterproof. Somewhere in the depths of the cellar here I posted a long thread on doing exactly what you're contemplating. 

    http://forums.finehomebuilding.com/breaktime/construction-techniques/bullet-proof-fiber-cement-and-more

  3. Bryanw511 | Jan 09, 2019 12:59pm | #3

    Thanks for the info guys. Glad to hear it's not that uncommon to do.

    1. Jmacqu | Mar 23, 2020 11:45am | #4

      Hey Bryanw511, I was wondering if you ever went through with insulating from the outside like you suggested? I have a 1940's cape cod and I planned on doing the same. I'm interested in how it went and what you learned along the way.

      1. Bryanw511 | Jan 16, 2021 09:26pm | #5

        "Life" happened so I haven't gotten to this large scale project yet. Still considering doing it though. I'll report back when I do.

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