Masonite Siding Replacement Experts

Understanding Masonite Siding — And Why Homeowners in the St. Louis Area Are Replacing It

If your home has Masonite siding, you’re not alone. For decades, it was a popular and affordable siding option across the country — including right here in Missouri. But today, more and more homeowners are choosing to replace their aging Masonite with durable, low-maintenance options like James Hardie fiber cement, Alside ASCEND composite cladding, or premium vinyl siding.

At Siding Express, we specialize in siding replacements that transform your home’s appearance, protect it for decades, and boost its value. If your Masonite siding is showing signs of wear, warping, or rot — we’re here to help.

What Is Masonite Siding?

Masonite, also known as hardboard siding or pressboard siding, is made from wood fibers, wax, and resins that are compressed into boards. It was heavily marketed in the 1980s and 90s as a more affordable alternative to wood or vinyl siding.

Many major builders used Masonite on new homes because it looked like real wood and was easy to install. However, the product’s reputation has declined due to performance issues over time.

Common Problems With Masonite Siding

While Masonite was innovative for its time, it’s now known for several issues — especially in the Midwest’s fluctuating climate:

• Water absorption and swelling
  Masonite is susceptible to moisture infiltration, which causes the boards to swell, warp, and eventually rot.
• Cracking and delamination
  Over time, sun exposure and weather can cause Masonite boards to split or separate.
• Paint maintenance
  Unlike modern materials, Masonite must be regularly painted and caulked to stay protected — making it a high-maintenance choice.
• Insect and pest damage
  Since it’s wood-based, Masonite can attract termites, carpenter ants, and other pests.
• No longer manufactured
  Due to widespread class action lawsuits and ongoing performance issues, most Masonite siding products were discontinued in the early 2000s.

Is Masonite Siding Still Safe to Have?

If your Masonite siding is still in decent condition and well-maintained, it may not pose an immediate risk. But once it begins to swell, crack, or delaminate, the damage can spread quickly and compromise the structure beneath.

That’s why it’s important to schedule a siding inspection if your home still has Masonite. At Siding Express, we’ll take a close look and help you plan your next steps — whether that’s spot repair or full replacement.

Better Alternatives to Masonite Siding

At Siding Express, we specialize in high-performance siding materials that are built to last — and designed to boost your curb appeal.

James Hardie Fiber Cement Siding

James Hardie siding is a fiber cement product made from cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. It’s known for its durability, weather resistance, and wood-like appearance without the maintenance.

• America’s #1 siding brand
• Engineered for climate, moisture, and fire resistance
• Woodgrain look without the maintenance
• 30-year warranty and unmatched durability

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding is a lightweight plastic exterior cladding that offers excellent weather resistance with minimal maintenance. It’s one of the most affordable and popular siding choices in the U.S.

• Affordable, low-maintenance option
• Wide variety of colors and profiles
• Doesn’t peel, rot, or need painting
• Great for budget-conscious remodels

Alside ASCEND Composite Cladding

ASCEND is an innovative composite siding made from a patented blend of glass-reinforced polymers and graphite-infused polystyrene. It mimics the look of wood while offering strong thermal and moisture protection.

• Next-generation siding technology
• Realistic wood-look finish with minimal upkeep
• Lightweight and easy to install
• Lifetime limited warranty

These modern materials solve the very problems that Masonite homeowners face — with long-lasting protection, beautiful design options, and industry-leading warranties.

We Make Replacing Masonite Siding Easy

At Siding Express, we’ve helped hundreds of St. Louis-area homeowners upgrade from aging Masonite siding to modern, durable alternatives like James Hardie, vinyl, and Alside ASCEND. Our proven process makes siding replacement simple, efficient, and worry-free:

1. Free, no-pressure inspection
   We start with an on-site evaluation to assess the condition of your existing Masonite siding. You’ll get straightforward, expert feedback with no sales pressure.

2. Custom product recommendations
   Based on your goals, style preferences, and budget, we’ll recommend the best siding options for your home — whether that’s fiber cement, vinyl, or composite.

3. Professional installation
   Our trained and certified crews deliver high-quality workmanship with attention to detail, ensuring your new siding is installed correctly, efficiently, and on schedule.

4. Warrantied peace of mind
   Every project is backed by strong manufacturer warranties and our own workmanship guarantee, so you can invest with total confidence.

If your Masonite siding is warping, rotting, or simply worn out, now is the perfect time to make a change. Let Siding Express help you protect your home with a low-maintenance, long-lasting siding solution. We’re based in St. Charles and proudly serve homeowners throughout the greater St. Louis area. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.