Replacing siding - should I replace the biltrite?

[dpcrush2112]

I am replacing the siding on the front of my house. It is currently 4x9 sheets of masonite and I will be replacing it with the same stuff. Is it worth ripping out the old bilt-rite and replacing it with newer insulation? Should I install a vapor barrier?

[Rich]

Without seeing the insulation it's hard telling if it's worth it. If it's badly deteriorated or beaten up from replacing siding then I would probably consider replacing it. I personally would install Tyvek on the exterior of the home at a minimum.

[dpcrush2112]

Rich, thanks for your comments. The bilt-rite is in pretty good shape, except for small sections which I will replace. The use of Tyvek seems a little controversial. The assumption being that there are no holes in it and that it is taped around the edges where the windows are. Once I
pound the nails through for the siding it is assumed that the nail fills the hole completely. In other words, if I screw up and somehow tear the tyvek, then it's basically worthless.

Is that true and how hard is it to completely seal the tyvek around the edges?

[grumpydasmurf]

As a rule of thumb I would suggest you replace it. If the siding is bad chances are good so is the insulation. A vapro barrier is always recommended and is code in most areas. If you install a vapor barrier it should be installed ontop of the siding.

[Rich]

Just to clarify - you mean the vapor barrier on top of the sheathing right? Not on top of the siding - might be difficult and pretty ugly to put vb over the siding. :)

[grumpydasmurf]

LOL no I meant ontop of the insulation :)

I just read that thinking Doh!

[Rich]

LOL.. I figured you meant one or the other.