Space between grading and siding

[sfusselman]

I have heard a number of inspectors throw different numbers around so I wanted to get the popular vote.

I recommend that we should be able to see 2" to 4" of the foundation between grading at siding (hardi-plank, brick, stone, etc.)

When it comes to stucco I recommend at least 6" of exposure.

What do you guys recommend?

[Marc]

6". Some siding manufacturer's might not recommend as much but I stick with 6" because I can't remember every recommendation.

I generally don't bother with mentioning it unless the siding comes nearly into contact with soil at least once along the perimeter of the house.

Marc

[kurt]

If it's in the dirt, I put it in the report for sure. If it's a couple inches, I don't make much note of it, but if it's an overlay and there's a big overhang with lots of places for mice to get in, I write it down.

[Jim Katen]

As long as it's not touching the soil, I'm fine with it.

Note that the IRC requires 6" clearance from wood siding.

[Mike Lamb]

It depends. On older homes I just want to see the foundation. On newer, I get more codey. Assuming no interior moisture issues to speak of.

[Jim Baird]

The clearance idea is mainly about a visible zone for termite inspection, (at least around here).

[Brandon Whitmore]

The clearance idea is mainly about a visible zone for termite inspection, (at least around here).

The lesser the clearances, the more rot I typically run into, either in the lower siding or sill plate area.