How does wood siding behave in response to temperature changes?

Wood siding is a natural material that is highly responsive to changes in temperature and humidity. When temperatures rise, wood tends to absorb heat, which causes it to expand. Conversely, when temperatures drop, wood loses heat, leading to contraction. This expansion and contraction is a normal behavior of wood, as it adjusts to environmental moisture and temperature changes.

Understanding this property is crucial for home inspectors. If wood siding expands and contracts significantly, it can lead to issues such as gaps, misalignment, or even buckling if the installation does not accommodate this movement. Additionally, the behavior can affect the longevity of the siding, making it imperative for proper installation techniques to be used to allow for this natural expansion and contraction.