Live in a 2 and 1/2 story farmhouse (30′ by 22′) in Massachusetts dating from the 1860’s. House was originally sheathed in shiplap and this also functioned as the siding and exterior side was painted. All trim was set to match this profile (e.g.: shiplap notched 1/4″ to provide reveal for exterior door trim; shiplap extends completely underneath frieze board). House was later sided with cedar shingles which were painted, and repainted, and sloppily repainted. On south facing backside the shingles left unpainted and are completely shot. Really not fond of painted shingles (stained or the Cape Cod look is fine). Shiplap is in great shape. Mutual idea with my wife: remove the shingles; insulate the hell out of the 1st floor (2″ of rigid insulation between studs) and attic, and return to the shiplap look. Have complete access to all walls from the interior of the 1st floor, currently remodelling; would like to avoid touching the second floor as these have already been done. Does anyone know of anyone who has done this or are we simply begging to freeze our butts off? Would be really interested in any problems, outside of heat loss, that this would cause. Train of thought: shiplap is weather tight (vinyl siding leaks and probably has little r-value) why not return to the shiplap? Other concern(s): will shortly be pulling a permit to go up 1 and 1/2 stories on the 24′ by 24′ garage converting it into living space, would like the siding to complement that on the main house, and my wife fell in the love with the shiplap when I exposed it renovating a portion of the original porch which had been enclosed.
Edited 7/25/2002 12:02:49 PM ET by Rework
Edited 7/25/2002 12:03:58 PM ET by Rework