Rotted Siding Repair in Asheville, NC: A Complete Wall Rebuild Done Right
What starts as a small repair often turns into something much more involved—and that’s exactly what happened on this recent home project in Asheville, NC. A homeowner reached out after noticing a small section of damaged siding. At first glance, it looked like a quick fix—a simple patch and repaint. But once I began a closer inspection, the story changed quickly.
Behind that small area of damaged siding was extensive dry rot, bug infestation, and weathered structural damage that had slowly developed over time. What appeared to be a surface issue was actually a deeper problem that, if left unaddressed, could have compromised the integrity of the entire wall.
The Hidden Dangers of Rotted Siding
Rotting or deteriorated siding isn’t just about looks—it’s often a warning sign of water intrusion, poor ventilation, or trapped moisture behind the walls. Once water gets in, it can cause wood to soften and decay, inviting insects and further damage. The earlier you catch it, the better—but even if it’s advanced, the good news is that it can be fixed properly with the right approach.
For this home, it was clear that a quick patch wouldn’t cut it. The affected area needed to be fully rebuilt to restore both the appearance and structural integrity of the wall.
Step 1: Careful Removal and Inspection
The first step was to remove all the compromised materials—damaged siding, rotted sheathing, and insulation that had been affected by moisture and pests. This stage is where attention to detail matters most. It’s important to expose all of the hidden damage, not just what’s visible from the surface. Leaving even a small pocket of rot behind can cause the problem to return later.
Once everything was stripped back to solid framing, I was able to inspect the structure underneath and ensure it was sound. Fortunately, the studs were mostly in good shape, but I replaced a few areas that showed early signs of deterioration to prevent future issues.
Step 2: Rebuilding the Wall System
With a clean, solid base to work from, I began rebuilding the wall from the ground up. New sheathing was installed first, followed by fresh insulation to improve energy efficiency and comfort inside the home. Every layer was carefully sealed to keep out moisture and improve durability.
Next came the fun part—installing the new cedar siding. The homeowner wanted the repaired area to match the rest of the house perfectly, so I sourced high-quality cedar that aligned with the existing pattern and profile. Cedar is one of my favorite exterior materials to work with—it’s naturally resistant to insects and decay, and it offers a timeless, beautiful grain that adds character to any home.
Step 3: Priming and Finishing Touches
Once the new siding was installed, I applied a coat of high-quality exterior primer to protect the wood and prepare it for painting. The homeowner plans to have the entire house repainted soon, so this step ensures a long-lasting bond and even color once the full project is complete.
By the time we finished, the repair blended seamlessly with the rest of the home. More importantly, the underlying damage had been properly addressed—so it’s not just a cosmetic improvement, but a true structural restoration that will last for years to come.
A Thrilled Homeowner and a Job Done Right
The homeowner was thrilled with how the project turned out. What started as a worrisome discovery became an opportunity to restore and improve the home’s integrity. It’s always rewarding to see a project like this through—from the first inspection to the final cleanup—knowing the job was done right, with no shortcuts.
Why Proper Repairs Matter
When it comes to siding repair, there’s a big difference between covering up damage and actually fixing it. A professional repair not only restores the appearance of your home but also protects against future issues like leaks, pest intrusion, and energy loss.
At Zen Haven Handyman, I take pride in approaching every project—big or small—with the same level of craftsmanship, communication, and respect for your home. From siding and dry rot repairs to custom woodwork and general home improvements, the goal is always the same: deliver quality results that last.
Need Siding Repairs in Asheville?
If you’ve noticed cracked, rotted, or damaged siding, don’t wait until it gets worse. What looks like a small issue can often hide a much bigger problem underneath. Whether it’s a single section or a larger area that needs attention, I can help diagnose and repair the damage so your home stays beautiful and protected.
Call or text 828-222-3278 for siding repair, dry rot restoration, or any other handyman services in Asheville and the surrounding area. I’d be happy to take a look and help bring your home back to its best.
