Wood siding has long been a hallmark of the lovely homes in eastern Long Island. Originally settled in 1640, Southampton was the first English speaking settlement in New York. From its modest beginnings as a fishing, whaling and agricultural community, the Hamptons have evolved into a go-to getaway spot for affluent New York City residents. The tradition of wood siding continues.
The “Hamptons” isn’t an actual town. It’s a nickname for a string of seaside villages on the South Fork of eastern Long Island including the towns of Southampton and East Hampton. But don't let a local hear you calling their town or village 'the Hamptons'. They live in Quogue, Amagansett, Sagaponack or Sag Harbor.
Garapa hardwood rainscreen on Southampton residence
When the Long Island Railroad reached Bridgehampton in 1870, it was a game changer for these small hamlets, villages and communities. Now, the Hamptons were within 100 miles of New York City. Those could afford the fare, often summered or spent weekends here. There was an influx of well heeled New York elite who gathered here frequently socially, especially in the summer months.
Google satellite image of eastern Long Island
The long stretch of white sand beaches and venerable estates are well known to be a vacation hot-spot. And why not? For those attempting to escape the high pressure and hustle-bustle of the ‘concrete jungle’ of the city, what better way to relax than enjoy life by the sea.
Hardwood rainscreen siding and roof on residence in Bridgehampton
The coastal climate in this entire region is temperate and sometimes harsh. A well-designed wood rainscreen performs exceptionally well in this environment. In the summer, a rainscreen protects the home from rain. It also helps keep the home cool with natural convection, creating a more comfortable indoor setting.
How does the Climate-Shield Rainscreen System function?
A wood rainscreen also helps moisture inside the home to escape naturally through the walls. In the winter, a rainscreen serves as a passive insulation layer and protects the home from snow, sleet, ice and wind driven rain.
FSC Machiche wood rainscreen adds beauty and high-performance to home in Hamptons
A wood rainscreen system makes great financial sense, too. Real estate values here are among the highest in the US. The property values in this area have skyrocketed for decades. The look of natural wood siding is in keeping with the local architecture, so it fits in beautifully.
FSC certified wood rainscreen cladding on outbuilding in Amagansett
Many award-winning architects and builders have designed and built homes in this area. The quality of the design and workmanship is exemplary. And the performance of a well-designed and built rainscreen lasts…and lasts beautifully.
But you don’t have to be listed on the Social Register to enjoy the beauty, benefits and value of a wood rainscreen. There are many different wood rainscreen siding species available at a variety of price points. A wood rainscreen can be used as a featured accent on the front of a home, or as an accent wall on any façade.