SFW Construction
Established in 2005, SFW Construction specializes in siding and dry rot repair for Portland homes, particularly older properties vulnerable to structural wood damage. We repair deck and beam rot, rotted trim, leaking skylights, and other exterior issues that threaten your home’s integrity. Our team uses a targeted, process-driven approach to eliminate wood rot while preserving as much of your existing structure as possible. We focus on protecting Portland homes with thoughtful, minimally invasive repairs that keep your property structurally sound and looking its best for years to come.
Services
Siding repair services
Repairs or replaces damaged exterior siding to restore protection against moisture, improve durability, and prevent structural issues like rot.
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Dry rot repair
Identifies and removes wood affected by moisture damage, then rebuilds and restores the structure to stop decay and prevent it from returning.
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Window and door repairs
Repairs or replaces leaking or damaged windows and doors, often addressing flashing or sealing issues to prevent water intrusion.
Patio & deck repair
Fixes structural and surface damage on decks and patios, restoring safety, stability, and appearance, even when rot is present.
Roof repair and replacement
Repairs roof damage and leaks to protect the home from water intrusion and further structural deterioration.
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Location & hours
2552 NW Vaughn St, Portland, OR 97210, USA
FAQs
Do I Need To Paint The Siding After It Is Installed?
Yes, except vinyl siding. Painting your siding with high-quality paint is an essential step to making your siding last and stay protected against the elements. SFW Construction uses pre-primed material and always makes sure to prime the material cuts so your new siding will be ready for paint.
I Have Louisiana Pacific (LP) Siding, And It Looks Ok; Do I Need To Replace It?
Louisiana-Pacific (LP) siding manufactured between 1985 and 1995 was the subject of a class-action lawsuit due to premature deterioration and water absorption. While full replacement is ideal if budget permits, it is not always necessary immediately. If your siding is mostly in decent shape with only localized damage, SFW Construction can perform targeted repairs to remove the affected areas. This approach allows you to extend the lifespan of your current siding and buy time to save up for a full replacement.
Is It Essential To Hire A James Hardie Factory-Trained Contractor?
Yes, it is vital to use a James Hardie factory-trained contractor who has experience installing siding. These carpenters know the right way to install the product so that the homeowner can get the most out of their investment.
My Vinyl Siding Is Melting, With No Exposure To Any Fires; Why Is That?
Vinyl siding can melt, warp, or bubble if exposed to temperatures around 160 degrees. One of the more common reasons we see damaged vinyl siding without any apparent signs of heat or fire damage is the reflection of high-efficiency windows. At times, this light reflection can be over 200 degrees during peak summer months.
The Joints On My James Hardie Siding Are Not Caulked, Is This Ok?
James Hardie siding recommends not caulking siding butt joints, but to install a joint flashing commonly referred to as a bearskin. This is a small piece of metal flashing installed behind the siding where the two pieces join.
The Seams In My Vinyl Siding Aren’t Sealed. Is This Normal?
Yes, vinyl siding is not a waterproof siding. The seams and terminations should be fitted tight and cut precisely, but not caulked or sealed.
What Is A Targeted Siding Repair?
A targeted siding repair involves removing the damaged areas, completing a localized repair, and tying the repaired area back into the existing material. This method saves homeowners time and money when the damage is limited to a specific area. In some cases, a full siding replacement is not necessary if the problem can be corrected with a properly executed targeted repair.
What Is Siding?
Also known as wall cladding, siding is the material that protects the outside of a house or building by attaching to the exterior.
What Type Of Repairs Does SFW Construction Perform?
The type of repairs SFW Construction performs on a house is exterior. We specialize in siding, dry rot, roofing, flashing, windows and doors, leaks, painting, and structural repairs.
What Type Of Siding Do You Recommend?
In the Pacific Northwest, we get a lot of wet and cold weather, so it’s essential to choose a siding material that can stand up to the harsh elements. James Hardie siding is built to withstand the extreme Oregon and Washington weather. If Hardie is not what you are looking for, cedar is another great siding option. For our climate, we would recommend staying away from vinyl siding.
Can Dry Rot Be Covered, Or Just Painted Over?
No, dry rot can not be covered up or painted over it will continue to grow and eat at the affected areas until it is cut out and removed. Covering up dry rot damage is never a good idea, and all reputable and licensed contractors will advise their clients against this and refuse to conduct a dry rot cover-up.
Can You Do Siding And Dry Rot Repairs In The Rain?
Yes, SFW Construction conducts siding and leak repairs year-round, even in the rain. Our highly-skilled carpenters live and work in the Pacific Northwest and know how to perform repairs safely and correctly in inclement weather. The only part of the project that would need to wait for a rain-free day is any painting, but we only use pre-primed material to prevent any water damage to the product until paint can be performed.
Do You Need To Lift My Home To Repair A Sill Plate Or Joist With Dry Rot?
No, damaged sill or mud plates can be removed in sections with temporary support and replaced without conducting a costly home lift.
How Do You Identify Dry Rot? What Are Signs That You Have Dry Rot?
What Are Signs That You Have Dry Rot?
You Notice Wood Beginning to Shrink, Darken, or Crack
You Can Easily Penetrate Wood Surfaces with a Screwdriver
There is a Musty Odor Present
Bathroom or Kitchen Floors Feel “Springy”
Cracked or Peeling Paint Around Windows, Doors, and Trim
Wood Surfaces are Covered in Something Resembling the Skin of a Mushroom
What Are Common Areas For Dry Rot?
Siding, Trim, Windows, and Door Framing
Deck Framing and Boards
Posts and Beams
Roofs, Eaves, and Near Damaged Gutters
Kitchen and Bathroom Floors and Walls
Foundations, Sill Plates, Cripple Walls, and Crawl Spaces
How Do You Prevent Your Home From Getting Dry Rot?
Dry Rot occurs when the wood of your home exposed to moisture; in order to prevent wood rot, there are several things you can do around your house:
Properly ventilate and insulate your attic and crawlspace
Seal floors to reduce ground moisture in the basement and crawlspace
Confirm all the flashing in these area’s is correct and water is directed away from the wood including the deck, doors, porch, roof, wall, and windows
Keep wood away from high moisture places including the ground, masonry, and roof
Keep your painting and caulking up to date
Keep any areas where water builds up clear drains and downspouts
Please don’t leave any untreated, dry rot to cause damage to your home; treat it as soon as you can
How Would Having Dry Rot Affect My Property?
Having dry rot would affect your property if left untreated. Slowly the wood rot will cause weakening of the wood, which could compromise your house’s structural integrity. To avoid facing severe damage to your property, fix the issue before it gets worse.
I Have Dry Rot Under My Siding; Why Will No One Give Me A Firm Bid?
This is a common question we get when it comes to hidden dry rot damage as dry can be under your siding without you knowing. Since dry rot can travel, there is no way to see the damage’s extent without opening the material up and seeing what is under the siding. I would be wary of any contractor who appears the know the extent of the affected area just by looking at the outer material only. There are many factors to how dry rot spreads, amount of time, moisture levels, type of product affected, how the area was constructed, building defects, and animal damage. So, with all these factors to make a proper diagnosis, the affected areas need to be inspected and seen.
If You Discover Dry Rot, What Do You Do?
If you discover dry rot our recommendation would be to find a contractor that is experienced and knowledgeable in dry rot repair, someone who can resolve all your dry rot issues and eliminate the problem from the source. Your contractor should understand the skill, care, and work needed to inspect, locate, and effectively remove and remediate moisture along with making the necessary repairs caused by dry rot. If you do not want the structural support of your property at risk, do your research before hiring a contractor.
What Is A Targeted Dry Rot Repair?
A targeted dry rot repair involves removing only the damaged wood and tying the repair back into the existing structure. This method saves homeowners time and money when the affected area is localized. Many contractors recommend overly extensive repairs or guess at hidden damage before opening the assembly, which can lead to unnecessary project scope.
What is Dry Rot?
Dry rot is the leading cause of damage in wood structures in the Pacific Northwest. Dry rot, which is sometimes called brown rot, wood rot, and wet rot, can lead to even more mold and mildew issues. This makes dry rot challenging to spot before it spreading—and nearly impossible to predict. As the fungi spread, they eat away at the wood, leaving it dark and crumbly. At that point, you can even crush the wood into small chips or powder with your bare hand. Unfortunately, once dry rot begins spreading within a structure, it doesn’t stop.