Wood shingles and wood shakes are a very popular form of siding throughout the country. If maintained properly, an installation of this type can last many decades. Wood siding does require ongoing maintenance such as staining and replacement of worn or loose shingles. The installation of the water proof barrier under the siding is crucial to protecting the exterior wall sheathing. Wood shingle siding is a more time consuming and expensive installation when quality materials are used. Your inspector will be carefully examining both the quality of the material used on the installation, which greatly affects the life expectancy, as well as the current condition of the siding. Minor repairs or worn shingles can be replaced easily and inexpensively provided that the areas are not too large.