What is TIII house siding and how good is it?

Question:We are looking to buy a house and the realtor noted that the exterior has TIII siding. I am looking info on on keep and durability. Can any one help?

Answers:
T1-11 siding is a plywood siding with grooves cut in it every 8". Because it is wood, it must be painted or stained.

T1-11 is available in two thicknesses, 3/8" and 5/8". 5/8" should be used for house siding. Also, three different types of wood - yellow pine, fir and cedar. Cedar holds up best, followed by fir then yellow pine.

Any of the products will hold up OK if maintained and they are not in contact with the ground. It would not be my first choice, but not terribly bad either. You will have to keep it coated with paint or stain.

There are several other products that are made in a T1-11 pattern. Hardboard is probably the worst and will not take much abuse or weather at all, cement board (HardiBoard) holds up better than wood.