Sheet M-203 · Material chapter C · Timber register

Wood, cedar & engineered wood: the look, the upkeep, stated without romance

Atlanta was sided in wood for a century, and intown streets still show why: nothing else takes a shadow line or a historic profile quite the same way. Humid air, termites, and carpenter bees tax that beauty every year.

Board 01 — Western red cedar and pine

Cedar resists decay better than pine and holds stain well; Southern yellow pine is cheaper and hungrier for paint discipline. Both need their end grain sealed, their backs primed where specified, and clearance from grade and roofs. In Atlanta humidity, plan on paint roughly every 5–7 years or stain every 3–5, with annual washing and prompt repair of any failed film — peeling paint on wood is a moisture invitation, not a cosmetic issue. Subterranean and Formosan termites treat wood siding at grade as a bridge into the house; bait and inspection regimes are part of owning wood here, not an optional extra. Installed: $8.00–$14.00 per sq ft.

Board 02 — Engineered wood (LP SmartSide type)

Wood strands bonded with resin and treated — SmartGuard-type treatment uses zinc borate against fungal decay and termites — then factory-primed. It cuts and nails like wood, comes in long lengths, holds deep grain texture, and weighs far less than fiber cement. Its non-negotiables: seal every field cut, keep the specified clearances, and do not bury it in mulch or sprinkler spray. Warranties commonly run 5/50 (finish/substrate structure varies) — read the exact terms. Installed: $7.50–$12.00 per sq ft.

Board 03 — Choosing between them

Choose real wood when	A historic review requires it, the profile is a restoration match, or you accept the maintenance cycle as part of the house.
Choose engineered when	You want the wood look with factory treatment and longer lengths, and you will keep cuts sealed and paint sound.
Choose neither when	The wall has chronic splash, shade-mildew, or grade-contact problems you will not fix first — start with fiber cement.

How this site works — stated plainly This is a guide and connection service, not a contractor. Reading here costs nothing. If you use the request form, your project summary is shared with one vetted local siding contractor serving metro Atlanta, who contacts you to arrange an in-person assessment. No contractor pays to change anything written in this book, and no page here claims this site installs siding.

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