Here in Maryland I have a 1700 ft2 1977 rancher that needs new siding. We have decided to use pre-stained cedar shakes on the front of the house (which is also about 40% recycled brick). We are thinking about using hardiplank on the sides (~26') and back (~72').
Picture of front:
Picture of window frame:
We are hearing different options from the contractors that have bid the job. One wants to pull the old siding and foam out, install OSB and tyvek, then cedar shakes or hardiplank. One says they can nail the new shakes / hardiplank to the existing pressboard, patching any soft areas as they go.
I'm a reasonably adept (inside the house) DIY guy. What I am thinking is to remove the pressboard panels, leave the blue foam installation, nail up ½" OSB, staple the recommended felt and then nail the cedar shakes. Depending on the about of time that takes, I may pay someone to do the hardiplank the same way.
What would you do?
Any recomendations are appreciated. Thanks.