Masonite Problems

Masonite usually refers to a type of exterior home siding called hardboard, a mixture of compressed wood fiber and chips, resin and wax, according to Propex.com. Lower-quality Masonite can deteriorate.

Poor Quality

• Masonite made during the 1980s and 1990s was of lower quality because the company cut costs in production. The hardboard was not sufficiently compressed and can soften, swell, buckle and rot, damaging building structures.

Types of Damage

• The damage caused by deteriorating Masonite includes leaks, moisture and toxic-mold buildup, cracked paint and stucco, and warped studs. Millions of buildings with defective Masonite siding were damaged.

Production Halted

• Masonite had to pay millions of dollars in damages and halted manufacture of the siding. Defective Masonite is typically stamped with the name Masonite, and sometimes with "X-90." The siding should be removed and replaced by a licensed contractor.