Hello everybody,
I had an inspection this morning; which builder tried to convince me that the siding issue was not a bad installation (which I agree it is a bad installation); it was because the window contractor did not install windows on time, so causing rain going between siding, wrap and plywood causing weaving cement board siding. (Which I don’t agree with). Could you please let me know if moisture is possibly causing this issue with the siding?
Thank you in advance.
The builder should have installed the windows before the siding to seal the windows properly.
i just had a client terminate their contract yesterday & receive a full refund on a $1,7M house over siding install issues
that job is crap
the windows absence has nothing to do with the waviness in the field or above the openings
moisture affected framing, sheathing, underlayment maybe exacerbate what is seen
send your pix to technical services of whatever siding that is
The builder and you are wrong.
The siding is wavy, to a point that, visible gaps appear readily, throughout the exterior envelope…
Top picture appears to be moisture related issues.
Siding barrier or house wrap, WRB weather restrictive barrier, would have prevented moisture related problems.
PS: I tend not to agree with builders. My opinion could be used in a court of law.
Morning, Barry.
Hope you and your family are well.
I concur with your assessment, although I would have not have verbally articulated the installation as such.
Dam, you would have to be blind and dumb not to see and articulate the ‘reams’ of installation defects and deficiencies the envelope has.
One could reasonably assume, the mid-wall assembly is soon to be a microbial growth factory.
Okey. Thanks
I agree with what Barry said. Since this looks to be blind nailed, the problem is with the substrate or the framing to cause that problem.
And the cart before the horse as far as the window install, but that is not what caused the problem. If the sheathing got too wet before they applied the WRB, it affected whatever they used for sheathing.
Thanks, this house still on framing phase. From interior, you could see plywood and actually stains at the base where siding meet foundation, but no major wood rot or anything like that.
In addition to the the above issues: As I look closely, there is no nominal gap between the butt joints, notably at the wavy pieces. Which will cause buckling due to expansion. Also, two other details you can pile on. 1. Butt joint directly over one window, there should be at least one course separating the butt joint over the window. 2. Though not very clear, but I suspect there is no flashing along the horizontal trim.
You’re right no flashing and what so ever.
Though you did not ask how to narrate the issue, I concur with @badair a manufacturer representative or independent qualified siding contractor should assess the install. This is one version I often use when I see such gross negligence.
There were several concerns with the installation of the siding; whereas the installation did not appear to be compliant with manufacturer installation instructions or best practice guidelines for most cement fiber siding manufacturers. The following deficiencies or concerns were observed; XYZ…List may not be exhaustive. Latent sheathing or weather resistant barrier problems, improper flashing as well as lack of window installation may compound the problem. Improper installation may cause further damage such as moisture problems and performance issues as well as void the manufacturer warranty. Recommend further evaluation by an qualified independent cement fiber siding installation contractor or manufacturer representative for repairs/corrections as needed.
Thanls for your time and help.
4x8 sheets of OSB side wall sheathing are sized for spacing to prevent buckling 47’’ 7/8 x 95’'7/8 
Material spacing or gaps is a reoccurring problem I see with many installs of various building systems. It is forgotten or looked past by modern day “craftsman”. (even though many manufacturers specify gap spacing in their installation manuals. Cement fiber siding, OSB sheathing inlcuded)
I don’t understand… what difference does it make if the siding was installed correctly or not? the finished product is not supposed to look like the one in your pictures regardless of the underlying cause 
Are you inspecting for a buyer or for who or for what purpose?
I have been hired by a broker who wants to sell this property. I’m not sure if this involves any lawsuit (they don’t tell me anything), but I don’t like any of the things I saw on these properties. I am going to either backup from doing this inspection (I still have time by end of this week) or, I will refer them to qualified professionals for all bold defects present.
Thank you all for all of your professional opinions.
