Exterior Arch Repair

10 years ago

Hello -

I have an exterior archway above my front porch - home is about 15 years old. As you can see, it's in bad shape, and I need to replace whatever this is that they used. I cannot figure out what it is that they used, or what I might could do affordably to fix this - welcome any suggestions as to what type of material this is or other suggestions on how to repair.

Featured Answer

PRO

Joseph Corlett, LLC

10 years ago

last modified: 10 years ago

There is no mechanical flashing between the siding and the arch trim to shed water externally so the siding dumps it behind the trim and it comes out the inside of the arch.

Template the siding after you tear it all out. Build the new arch and trim on a bench based on the template unless you want to replace the siding too. You've got to get mechanical flashing under the siding and over the top of the arch trim. A nice drip metal detail on that flashing to kick the water away from the trim would be nice. And a keystone at the top of the arch for a nice visual.

"...how do I shape the board to fit the arch?"

With the arch on the bench, rough out the curve oversize with a jigsaw, tack it to the arch, and a router with a bearing cutter that rides on the arch will follow the inside radius, cutting the inside radius of the trim perfectly. Set up a trammel for the outside radius.

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Comments (7)

sambah006
10 years ago
Can you post another close up picture of the "end grain"? Maybe get up on a ladder to get a good close up shot.

Its probably some sort of flexible plywood meant for these types of applications.
User
10 years ago
That looks like hard board or fiber board that was nailed or glued in place and caulked. Moisture caused the failure---which is exactly what always happens when those products are used for external applications.

Fixing is best done by removing the old material and using a product designed for external use. Like Azek plastic or even thin wood that has been primered and painted. Then use an external caulk.
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thistoowillpass
Original Author
10 years ago
Here are a couple of close up pics - yes, has definitely gotten worse in recent months - have had a lot of rain. I've been able to patch up and keep presentable over the years, but am at the point I've got to come up with a permanent fix - entire exterior is needing paint and want to fix this first. Sure appreciate the feedback and suggestions!
PRO
Sombreuil
10 years ago
last modified: 10 years ago
Use a better grade of paperboard for the repair. The face of the arch looks like MDF as well. Looking again, I apologize, the arch face is possibly Hardi trim.

Casey
thistoowillpass
Original Author
10 years ago
last modified: 10 years ago
Well, I'm going to sound stupid, but how do I shape the board to fit the arch? Is it flexible?
PRO
Precision Carpentry
10 years ago
http://www.certainteed.com/trim/