Timber weatherboards – joints opening

Cause

Thermal expansion and contraction of timber

Repair

  • scrape and/or sand off loose paint; sand bare timber until the surface is sound; prime; fill joints with putty or exterior grade flexible (polyester) filler; paint with at least two coats of semi-gloss or high gloss acrylic paint
  • for additional joint and mitred corner protection, after painting cover joints and corners with galvanised steel soakers (metal covers) or timber cover boards
  • where it is suspected that the building may be leaking and there is a risk of damage behind the cladding, engage an experienced building surveyor to report on the building 
  • caution: old layers of paint may contain lead. Lead can be a health hazard if fumes, dust or paint fragments are swallowed or breathed in. For more information see Health and safety: lead-based paint

Cause

Timber swelling/shrinkage caused by moisture absorption into end grain if joints were not adequately primed before installation and painting or staining

Repair

  • scrape and/or sand off loose paint; sand bare timber until the surface is sound; prime; fill joints with putty or exterior grade flexible (polyester) filler; paint with at least two coats of semi-gloss or high gloss acrylic paint
  • for additional joint and mitred corner protection, after painting cover joints and corners with galvanised steel soakers (metal covers) or timber cover boards
  • where it is suspected that the building may be leaking and there is a risk of damage behind the cladding, engage an experienced building surveyor to report on the building 
  • caution: old layers of paint may contain lead. Lead can be a health hazard if fumes, dust or paint fragments are swallowed or breathed in. For more information see Health and safety: lead-based paint