Design Standards Committee

Reston Association’s Design Review Board (DRB) met in January to review three requested changes to Lakeport’s Siding Standard. Two of the proposed changes were approved:

1. The earlier requirement that the interior of party walls be included in a HardiePlank project was removed. From now on, the way to deal with party walls (as well as the chimney, if it is shared) will be negotiated by neighbors. 
2. HardiePlank colors are now specified: siding in Monterey Taupe and HardieTrim in Sailcloth. 

The third proposed change, to remove the requirement that all elevations be done at the same time, was not approved. So, as in the past, if an owner re-sides using HardiePlank (which is required if over 25% of the cedar siding is being replaced), the entire house will still need to be done (other than party walls and/or a shared chimney if the owner and neighbors decide to exclude any of those elements from the project).

The new siding standard is posted on the Lakeport web site at http://bit.ly/2FNmIZt. Note that if an owner decides to switch to HardiePlank, an application signed by at least three neighbors plus a Lakeport Board member must be submitted to the DRB. The application form, the new standard, and other Lakeport and RA standards can be found at http://www.lakeportcluster.org/p/cluster-standards.html. Owners should always consult this site before starting any replacement project.

The Board surveyed owners in fall 2018 about these proposed changes. Over half of Lakeport owners responded, and all three proposals received support from at least 85% of respondents. Thanks to all who participated in the survey—being able to share the results was very helpful at the DRB meeting.